Jessica Alba’s Nocturne in Black, NYC | August 2025

She wore a strapless black mini dress, a silhouette that is eternally youthful and sophisticated. It was a choice that felt deliberate, a confident nod to cocktail dressing without the fuss. But what truly elevated the look from simply “nice” to “noteworthy”? The details, of course. For one, the dress was paired with sheer tights, a move that is making a quiet comeback—and one I have a soft spot for. It’s a bit of a throwback, a little bit rebellious, and it immediately adds a layer of unexpected polish. It’s a touch that takes me back to the streets of Milan in the ’90s, where fashion wasn’t afraid to be both elegant and a little bit daring.

And then there are the accessories. The strapless dress provided the perfect canvas for a bold gold chain necklace, and a red quilted bag, carried with the effortless grace of someone who knows her way around a great purse, a flash of color against the midnight black. But the most intriguing choice? The shoes. Instead of a standard pump, she opted for a pair of black pointy-toe heels that extended her silhouette and added a dash of sharp glamour. It’s an almost-uniform of urban chic—a classic LBD, a hint of texture with the tights, and a touch of something unexpected. It’s what we call a moment of street style perfection.

Her friend, Lizzy Mathis, also embraced a sophisticated evening look, opting for an elegant pair of navy suit trousers and a classic cream top. Her embellished ballet flats were a smart choice for an evening of walking, proving that comfort and style aren’t mutually exclusive. The two looked perfectly in sync, a testament to a friendship that has clearly blossomed, especially with the latest season of their show, Honest Renovations, airing on Roku.

It’s clear that Jessica Alba is embracing this new chapter of her life—as an actress, an entrepreneur, and a style icon who is unafraid to experiment. The little black dress, as always, is the perfect companion for this journey.

The Little Black Dress: 5 Ways to Make it Your Own

• Go Strapless: As seen on Jessica Alba, this silhouette is a powerful statement. It’s chic and modern, drawing the eye upward.

• Add Sheer Tights: A subtle detail that adds texture and a hint of nostalgia. It’s a runway favorite that’s now perfectly wearable.

• Play with Color: Don’t be afraid of a bold accessory, like a red or emerald green bag, to break up the monochrome. A single pop of color can transform a look.

• Choose Unexpected Footwear: Swap out your classic pumps for something with a twist—a sharp bootie, a kitten heel, or even a statement sneaker if the occasion allows. It’s all about the element of surprise, non?

• Layer with Jewelry: A simple black dress is the perfect canvas for experimenting with necklaces, cuffs, and rings. Mix metals for a bohemian flair or stick to a single, bold piece for a more minimalist vibe.