ELLE’S Sarah Schussheim considers the little black dress the most important go-to piece in a woman’s wardrobe. With holiday party season inching dangerously closer, we’re thrilled to get her insider advice on the style staple she calls “sexy, empowering, and terrifically versatile all at the same time.”

Rue La La: Do you have a signature style you always find yourself gravitating towards?
Sarah: My go-to silhouettes are a black longsleeve wrap dress and a structured shift dress.

Rue La La: How do you judge if a dress is a score?
Sarah: A good rule of thumb is versatility - the perfect LBD can transition from casual to elegant and back again with a few little tweaks.

Rue La La: What are your favorite outfit add-ons to enhance an LBD?
Sarah: When in doubt, go for a great blazer or leather jacket, and a pair of bright heels for a pop of color.

Rue La La: Killer shoes are obviously an important outfit component. What’s your go-to pair for an LBD?
Sarah: Sky-high heels!

Rue La La: What’s a good way to dress down an LBD?
Sarah: Try a broken-in denim vest and a wrist full of colorful, beachy bracelets.

Rue La La: Describe how you would transition your LBD from day to night.
Sarah: For 24-hour style, throw on a jean jacket for daytime and a fur stole for a night out.

Rue La La: The Little Black Dress is such a classic – what are elements that can make it more modern?
Sarah: For a twist on the LBD, look for details like piping, texture, and embellishments.

Our ELLE: The Little Black Dress Boutique opens Thursday, November 18 at 11AM ET.