Do you have a party or event to go to, but aren’t sure what accessories to wear with your dress? Here’s how to accessorize a dress that will make a statement.
You’ve got plans for a hard-earned night out.
There’s going to be great entertainment, delicious food and beverages, and fun company.
You might know what you’re going to wear. But do you know what accessories you need?
Check out this quick guide about how to accessorize a dress for the final touches for a perfect night out!
Shoes
There’s nothing like a pair of knockout shoes to help you make an entrance.
Putting your favorite little black dress to work again? Accent it with pumps or sandals in eye-catching red, pink, orange, or yellow.
If your dress has a floral or another pattern, choose neutral shoes or fashion boots. That prevent visual overload when people watch you arrive, dance, or mingle.
And, if you have a favorite pair of party shoes you’re not alone. Many women like to get a new dress to accessorize the shoes! Sound like a good idea? Shop now for a dress to match your shoes then continue accessorizing!
Earrings
For off-the-shoulder dresses or those with deep necklines, consider long, dangling earrings for an elegant look. This is can be super attractive if you style your hair into an updo.
Smaller, rounder earrings work well with dresses that have a collar or complex pattern.
If you have multiple ear piercings, you can mix and match the styles and colors. Wear longer earrings on the lobe, moving toward studs the higher you go up your ear. But unless you want people to be distracted while talking to you, keep the choices the same on both ears.
Necklace
For a traditional look, wear a necklace that matches your earrings.
But if you don’t wear earrings or want to mix things up a little, consider sporting a statement necklace. That can be anything that’s bold and noticeable.
They look great against bare skin or against the fabric of a turtleneck dress in colder months.
Try wearing multi-strand necklaces that sit just below the collarbone with cocktail dresses.
Long necklaces can look superb with a sheath dress. They will not only make you look taller, they can distract from belly fat.
Bracelets
Bracelets add pizzazz to your wrists and add dashes of color to monochromatic outfits, including white dresses.
Wear multiple bangles or grip bracelets in a range of colors. Just make sure the colors are in the same group. For example all pastels or all jewel tones.
Bonus points if one of the colors of your bracelets matches your shoes. That will create a visual trick that will make you look “put together” no matter what else you wear.
Scarves
A scarf is a versatile accessory that is too often overlooked.
In cooler weather, it can be a practical addition to your ensemble. Even the most lightweight scarves can protect your neck from drafts and keep away a chill when outside.
Patterned scarves look great with one-color dresses. Choose a pattern that reflects the kind of outing you’re at. For example, flowers or stars for an outdoor cocktail party or geometric shapes for a modern art gallery opening.
Purse
Of course, the purse is your most practical accessory. And it can be the most difficult to get right.
You want it to match the style and color palette of your outfit. But you also want it to be large enough to carry your essentials and small enough to not be a burden or visually overpower your beautiful dress.
For that reason, it’s a good idea to find three kinds of classic evening purses to keep in your closet:
- Black patent leather clutch
- Silver or gold wallet-style with a shoulder chain
- Small over-the-shoulder zippered pouch in white or light gray
With those options on hand, you’ll be ready for any kind of night out from a formal dinner, to an evening wedding, to an upscale backyard barbecue.
And, if you buy quality items, they will last and be stylish for years.
Closing Thoughts About How to Accessorize a Dress
There are many famous quotes by Coco Chanel, an icon of fashion.
But the two to remember when you’re figuring out how to accessorize a dress?
“The best color in the world is the one that looks good on you.”
And, the sage advice about accessories: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.”
So go ahead, put on that killer dress, accessorize, and have a great night out!
And when you’re ready for more tips and ideas, check out our fashion blog.