The Evolution of the Little Black Dress Nancy's Notions History Of The Little Black Dress From Coco Chanel To Audrey Hepburn Marie Claire UK 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 Jeanne Lanvin ~ (1 January 1867, Paris 6 July 1946, Paris) was a French fashion designer and the founder of the Lanvin fashion house. One of the most influential designers of THE STORY OF: Coco Chanel's Little Black Dress 29Secrets Turn heads at your next soiree in these stunning little black dresses