The little black dress (LBD) was popularizedand effectively invented as a modern fashion stapleby French designer Coco Chanel in 1926. At a time when black was largely associated with mourning, Chanel introduced A Coco Chanel Little Black Dress, released in 1926. Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, NYC. Gift of Mrs. Georges Gudefin Black Shrug & Dress Set Long Sleeve Maxi Bodycon Jersey Ally Fashion Kristine Black Lace Panel Cut Out Maxi Dress with Shrug