Ideal for adding aesthetic intrigue to your next formal function.
A black dress is considered the perfect outfit for every occasion. Well, perhaps not to play tennis or sleep in, but you get the picture. But the versatility and ubiquity of the little black dress can also be its downfall. When wearing one unadorned in all its refined simplicity, there’s a danger you can somewhat sink into the background of an event, rather than sparkle and captivate like you only deserve.
Not to worry; by adding just a few unique flourishes, you can be the Belle of the Ball and retain that restrained, elegant air. Here’s how; our 6 ways to accessorise a black dress, IDEAL for adding aesthetic intrigue to your next formal function.
ADD A POP OF COLOUR WITH JEWELLERY
A colourful necklace or funky earring can set you apart from the crowd. Adding it to a completely black dress will make the jewellery, the dress and you pop, owing to the juxtaposition of monochrome and vibrancy. If you really want to shine, choose a set of pearls. Pearl jewellery, found online in quality stores like www.pearlsofjoy.com, is an all-time favorite pairing with a black dress for good reason; it just works.
YOU’RE GONNA SEE ME ROAR
Animal prints on a dress don’t always work to a woman’s favour, contrary to what the pervasiveness of leopard print on the high street would have you believe. That said, animal print does make exceptionally eye-catching accessories, giving your look a little bit more sass without overdoing things. Zebra print in particular works exceptionally well as a scarf when paired with a black dress. Do not be afraid of showing off your wild side.
GO NUDE
No, we are not talking about going out naked, or commando, though both do have a place. Instead, it’s all about nude accessories here. Pairing a black dress with a nude pumps pulls together that contrast we keep extolling. It is a subtle pairing, but it is so much more than just a dress; one which can look elegant, sophisticated and just a little suggestive, too.
BELT IT UP
You can break up the classic, one tone look and shape of the typical black dress by emphasising your waist with a belt as well. This technique works for all kinds of dresses, and if your dress is a little loose, you can slightly change its shape with a belt. Equally, you can simply add it as a decorative element. Experiment with the wideness of your belt, and the colour of it, too. Your waist carries a lot of burden; it deserves to have its moment.
TRANSITION WITH LEATHER
A leather jacket is an accessory for all seasons and occasions. It adds a dash of character and strength to outfits and can do wonders for a black dress. When pairing a leather jacket and a black dress, it’s all about balance. You do not want to over spice your look, and look like you’re trying too hard, but by gum you don’t want err too far on the cautious side either. Confident and crisp is what we’re aiming for here. Though it’s particularly tricky to get right, matching a vintage leather jacket with your black dress can lead to a truly rewarding look.
WEAR A WHITE SHIRT WITH YOUR BLACK DRESS
Wearing a white shirt or t-shirt with a black dress is a design classic, make no mistake. When you think about standard pieces of clothing that we all have in our wardrobe, a white shirt and a black dress are everpresents. But pairing them together and you take a simple look to a whole new level of sophistication.
Looks like you’re getting your season’s wardrobe in order? Check out our guide to the fashion must haves for spring to keep ahead of the curve and catwalk.
