I've thought about this, and apparently I have very little to say about this outfit other than -

1) I love maxi dresses
2) I'm sorry this one is old so there's no current links to buy it new
3) The correct maxi dress length is always nearly skimming the ground while wearing your shoes of choice, thus guaranteeing the longest leg line possible.

I'm not going to say (yet) that this is going to be the only holiday dress I purchase this year but I think it's a damn good one for a variety of events. The higher neck and lace accent make it unique from the other black dresses in my closet, and the fun flare skirt keeps it feeling young (plus I can eat in it, always a top priority for me). I've also worn this with tights and flats to work already, so I'd say it's pretty versatile for a fancy-ish black dress!

(Note: Dress runs a bit small in my opinion, I'm wearing a size 10 here.)