Basic Black For Very Little Green

The "little, black dress" is one of the classic mainstays of any wardrobe.

So much so that Marie Claire magazine featured 50 of the best black dresses for under $100 in its December issue.

In the latest Chic on a Shoestring challenge, the magazine's fashion editor, Lucy Sykes, showed The Early Show that it is possible to spend a few dollars to look like a million bucks. She displayed several different expensive black dresses and accessories and showed how women can get the same look at a fraction of the cost.

Diane Von Furstenberg ($325) vs. Express ($54)
An elegant wrap dress that flatters all figures and goes from day to evening. Wear it to the office and then to a company party.

Accessory:
Calvin Klein silver clutch ($445)
Franchi silver satin clutch ($70)

Yves St. Laurent ($3,395) vs. View Collection $99
This is the holiday dress of the season for the confident and daring. The bell shaped sleeves and keyhole flatter boyish figures.

Accessory:
Cesare Paciotti wrap heel ($395)
Nina black wrap heel ($69)

Krizia ($890) vs. Spiegel ($89)
The dress is a popular silhouette. It is a beautiful, flowing sheath that can be dressed up with accessories.

Accessories:
Bess chandelier earings ($350)
RJ Graziano chandelier earings ($125)
Lagos cocktail ring ($395)
Nolan Miller ($74)

Moschino ($2573) vs. Necessary Objects ($88)
The dress is for black tie occasions this season. The floor length gown is sexy and flirtatious. Plus, it looks leaner in a feminine column dress.

Accessory:
Judith Lieber wrist purse ($875)
La Regale wrist purse ($22)