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Perfect Accessories for a Black Dress to Elevate Your Style

By: Emily Whitehill.

Published on

- 8 min read


Are you staring at your little black dress and wondering how to spice it up for your next event? Fear not, fellow fashionistas! A black dress is a blank canvas just waiting to be transformed by the perfect accessories. With so many options to choose from, you can create a look that’s uniquely you, whether you’re heading to a casual get-together or a fancy soirée. In this article, I’ll share my favorite ways to accessorize a black dress, adding that extra touch of glamour and style to make you stand out from the crowd.

Pearl Necklace

Pearl Necklace

There’s something so elegant and timeless about a pearl necklace, don’t you think? It adds a touch of class to any outfit, and when paired with a black dress, it’s simply divine. I remember wearing my grandmother’s vintage pearls with a black dress to a charity gala, and I felt like Audrey Hepburn herself! (Breakfast at Tiffany’s, anyone?)

If you want to modernize the look, consider layering a few delicate pearl necklaces of varying lengths. This will add depth to your outfit while maintaining that classic elegance we all love. Plus, pearls come in a variety of colors, so you can experiment with different hues to make the look uniquely yours.

Trench and a Mini Bag

For a chic, sophisticated look, try pairing your black dress with a classic trench coat and a mini bag. This combo is perfect for transitioning from day to night, and it’s a look I often turn to when I have evening plans after work. The trench coat adds structure and a touch of refinement, while the mini bag keeps things playful and stylish.

Choose a trench coat in a neutral color like beige or camel, and opt for a mini bag in a bold hue to make a statement (I have a red one that I adore!). You can also experiment with different bag styles, such as crossbody or clutch, to find the perfect fit for your look.

Animal Print Clutch and a Belt

Want to add some sass to your black dress? Look no further than an animal print clutch and a belt! This combination is both fashionable and fun, and it can instantly elevate a simple black dress. I recently wore this combo to a friend’s birthday party, and I received so many compliments on my outfit (not to brag, but who doesn’t love a compliment?).

When choosing your animal print clutch, don’t be afraid to go bold with patterns like leopard, zebra, or even snake. The key is to keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple, so the clutch and belt take center stage. For the belt, opt for a slim design in a coordinating color to keep the focus on the clutch.

Headband

Headbands are having a major moment right now, and I am totally here for it! They’re a fantastic way to accessorize a black dress and add a touch of whimsy to your ensemble. I personally love a good statement headband – think oversized pearls, sparkly embellishments, or even a bold color.

When selecting a headband, consider your personal style and the occasion. For a more casual look, try a simple headband with a minimal design. On the other hand, if you’re attending a more formal event, don’t be afraid to go all out with a headband that commands attention. Just be sure to balance the rest of your accessories to avoid looking overdone.

Silk Scarf

A silk scarf is a versatile and stylish way to accessorize a black dress. Not only can it add a pop of color and pattern to your outfit, but it also allows you to get creative with how you wear it. One of my favorite ways to style a silk scarf is by tying it around my neck in a loose knot, giving off a chic Parisian vibe. I also like to drape it over my shoulders for a more refined look, perfect for a dinner party or a night at the theater.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try using your silk scarf as a head wrap or even a belt! The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with different styling techniques can lead to some truly unique and eye-catching ensembles. Just remember to choose a scarf with colors and patterns that complement your dress and overall style.

Black Hat

When it comes to accessorizing a black dress, don’t forget about hats! A black hat can add a mysterious and alluring touch to your look, whether you opt for a wide-brimmed fedora or a chic beret. I once wore a black fedora with my LBD to an art exhibit, and it instantly made me feel like a femme fatale (in the best way possible).

When choosing a hat, consider the style and shape that best suits your face and the dress. Also, make sure to keep your other accessories minimal to avoid overwhelming your outfit. A black hat can make a statement all on its own, so let it shine!

Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry and a black dress are a match made in heaven. The warm, luxurious tones of gold provide a beautiful contrast against the deep black of the dress, creating a striking and sophisticated look. I love stacking gold bangles on my wrist or wearing a chunky gold necklace to make a bold statement.

If you prefer a more delicate look, opt for dainty gold chains, earrings, or rings. Mixing and matching different gold pieces can also create an interesting and dynamic effect. Just remember, when it comes to gold jewelry, less is often more – so choose a few key pieces to showcase, and let them do the talking.

Red Shoulder Bag and Sneakers

Who says a black dress can’t be casual and fun? Pairing your LBD with a red shoulder bag and sneakers is a great way to add a pop of color and a sporty touch to your outfit. This combination is perfect for a laid-back weekend look or even a casual date night. I once wore this combo to an outdoor concert, and I felt both stylish and comfortable all night long!

When choosing your sneakers, opt for a clean and sleek design that complements your dress. White sneakers work particularly well for this look, as they create a nice contrast with the black dress and red bag. As for the red shoulder bag, consider a design with interesting details or textures to make it stand out.

Silver Necklace

Silver jewelry is a classic choice when it comes to accessorizing a black dress. A silver necklace, in particular, can add just the right amount of sparkle to your ensemble without overwhelming it. I have a dainty silver pendant necklace that I love to wear with my black dress for a timeless and elegant look.

Experiment with different necklace styles, from delicate chains to statement pieces, to find the perfect match for your dress and the occasion. Don’t be afraid to layer multiple silver necklaces of varying lengths for a trendy and dynamic look. And remember, coordinating your other accessories, like earrings and bracelets, in silver will help create a cohesive and polished appearance.

Light Blue Necklace

A light blue necklace can add an unexpected and refreshing touch to a black dress. The soft, cool hue of light blue creates a beautiful contrast against the dark fabric, making your outfit stand out. I once wore a light blue beaded necklace with my black dress to a summer wedding, and I loved how it brought a touch of color and whimsy to my look.

When choosing a light blue necklace, consider the shade and design that best suits your style and the dress. Opt for a statement piece with bold shapes and textures, or go for a more subtle look with a delicate chain and pendant. You can also mix in other pastel colors for a playful and unique accessory ensemble.

Green Shoulder Bag

Another eye-catching way to accessorize a black dress is with a green shoulder bag. The vibrant color adds a lively touch to your outfit, perfect for making a statement at any event. I once wore a rich emerald green bag with my black dress to a holiday party, and it felt like the perfect festive touch.

When selecting a green shoulder bag, consider the shade and style that best complements your dress and the occasion. From deep emeralds to bright lime, there are plenty of green hues to choose from. As for the bag style, consider a sleek clutch for a more formal event or a larger shoulder bag for a casual affair. Just be sure to keep your other accessories in balance to let the green bag shine.

Conclusion: Black Dress, Endless Possibilities

As you can see, there are countless ways to accessorize a black dress, and the options are limited only by your imagination. From classic pearls to bold animal prints, there’s a look for every occasion and personal style. So, the next time you find yourself staring at your black dress, feeling uninspired, remember that the right accessories can transform your outfit into a show-stopping ensemble. Now go forth and accessorize with confidence!