Stylepoints: Ode to the Little Black Dress

Its silhouette is constantly evolving, but the Little Black Dress (LBD) remains supremely chic. From Coco Chanel in the 1920s to "Breakfast at Tiffany's" in the 1960s and continuing today, the LBD has become an enduring female wardrobe staple. Local fashion designers will pay homage to the iconic fashion item in a group runway show on Thursday. "Pulling the color away puts a dress out there that people can relate to, understand and picture themselves wearing," said designer Emma Berg, who produced one LBD for the show. Here's a preview of the looks:

Dress: Paillette sequin bodice with silk fishtail-hem skirt and cutout back.

Why does the LBD endure? "Black dresses are beautiful, sexy and flattering on every woman."

Buy it: Available Nov. 1 at Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls., 612-870-0420, and Arafina, Galleria, Edina, 952-925-1565. See www.amandachristinedesigns.com.

Dress: Lacquered soutache lace dress layered over sheer lace that peeks out on the sides.

Why does the LBD endure? "You just don't have to think about it like other dresses sitting in your closet ... kind of like a favorite pair of jeans or shoes."

Buy it: One of a kind, $750, www. georgemoskal.com. Moskal's collection is available at Arafina.

Why does the LBD endure? "The little black dress has a beautiful story and it became an important moment in fashion history through the elegance of a lovely young actress, a talented designer and the power of cinema."

Buy it: $600, upon request.

Dress: Silk chiffon overdress with a beaded high collar embedded with lace appliqué, and underdress in a printed lace motif.

Why does the LBD endure? "It can be dressed up or down, stylized or classic. Plus, black never seems to go out of style!"

Buy it: $325, www.danielleeverine.com.

Why does the LBD endure? "It's a blank canvas. The dresses can be inconspicuous, but very flattering. Then, depending, how it's styled -- it can really glow. It's a chameleon of sorts."

Buy it: $350 at June, 3406 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls., 612-354-3970, visit www.emmaberg.com.

When: 7 to 10 p.m. Thu. • Where: Amsterdam Bar and Hall, 6 W. 6th St., St. Paul • Tickets: Free, 21+ What: 13 local designers display their versions of the LBD More information: www.mnfashionweek.com

Accessorize your LBD with the jewelry of local designer Tamara Schafhauser's Sheer Addiction. Using inspiration from around the world, she combines various vintage elements, such as brass stampings and coins, with beads and mixed-metal chains for an eclectic, chic look. Shop the collection in person on Thursdays from 10 to 2 p.m. (511 2nd St., Hudson, Wis., 651-470-0711).

Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177 • sglassman @startribune.com • Follow Glassman on Twitter: @sararglassman

4 to 8 p.m., A. Michele, 1591 Selby Av., St. Paul, 651-917-6966.

Books for Africa fundraiser: C'est Chic Boutique and MartinPatrick³ are having a fundraiser with drummers, dancers and food. There's a $5 suggested donation. During the event, receive 20 percent off at both boutiques.

5 to 8 p.m., 212 3rd Av. N., Mpls, 612-339-1600.

Up Six Vintage 10th birthday party: The midcentury boutique is celebrating its first decade with a show featuring Grand Cutlers, Red Pens, Little Man and Pink Minks. Also fashion shows and a vintage costume contest.

9 p.m., Turf Club, 1601 W. University Av., St. Paul, $10 cover or $8 with costume.