Earrings, Necklaces, Bracelets, Oh My: How to Accessorize a Black Dress
Posted by Deven Davis on
Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet, Oh My: How to Accessorize a Black Dress
Have a night out on the horizon but not sure how to accessorize a black dress? We reveal how to choose the right pieces without overpowering your dress.
Keyword(s): how to accessorize a black dress
Every woman knows that a little black dress is a perfect outfit for any occasion.
The right LBD is just as appropriate for a night out on the town as it is for a fancy cocktail party. And a classic little black dress looks good on anyone, regardless of your body's shape or size.
The only problem with the little black dress is that it can be a bit boring. So, how do you dress up your perfect LBD?
With some amazing accessories, of course.
Are you wondering how to accessorize a black dress? Here are some tips for creating a look that will turn heads.
It's All About the Neckline
When you're accessorizing with any dress, but especially a little black one, the most important thing to consider is the neckline.
Different necklines lend themselves to different kinds of accessories. So, the neckline of your little black dress will help you determine which accessories to pick.
With strapless and round neckline dresses, you'll want to stick with a short, round necklace.
A simple string of pearls is always stunning. If you're looking for something more modern than classic, a textured choker will make a bold statement.
Or, you can skip the necklace and opt for some statement earrings. Remember that statement earrings work best when your hair is up instead of down.
V-neck dresses provide the ideal opportunity for a statement necklace.
A long pendant necklace perfectly pairs with a V-neckline. Layered chains of different materials also work well as do Lariat necklaces. The right bib necklace can be a stunning statement with a V-neckline, but make sure to choose one that falls within the neckline rather than over it.
For sweetheart and halter dresses, it's best to skip the necklace and focus on the earrings.
Since these necklines have straps where a necklace would fall, it takes the focus away from any necklace you'd choose. So, grab a pair of dangly statement earrings instead.
Accessorizing the Arms
Bracelets can work with pretty much any little black dress.
The key is to make sure the bracelets work with the other accessories you're wearing and the event you're attending.
If you're headed to a fancy cocktail party or a black-tie event, it's important to keep bracelets simple and classy. Opt for a thin bracelet with some sparkly gems, or a simple string of small pearls. A braided or patterned chain also works well.
The vibe you're going for is simple elegance.
A night out on the town or a dinner party is the best time to show off your statement bracelets.
Layer on the bangles or go for a chunky bracelet with some funky stones. These occasions are also the time to show off gorgeous cuffs and Bali-style bracelets.
When choosing a bracelet, make sure that it matches the rest of your accessories. If you're wearing a bib necklace or statement earrings, skip the chunky bracelet and opt for something simpler, or skip the bracelet altogether. If your earrings and necklace are simple, then you can bust out the elaborate bracelet.
Earrings for Every Aesthetic
Which earrings will shine with your little black dress?
It all depends on the rest of your look. When accessorizing, the earrings should be the central focus of the look or the icing on the cake.
If you have an amazing pair of elaborate earrings you want to show off, build the rest of your look around the earrings.
Wear your hair up so the earrings can be seen. Skip the necklace so it doesn't draw attention away from the earrings. If you opt for a bracelet, keep it thin and simple.
If you've chosen an incredible statement necklace or a chunky bracelet, then the earring should be understated. Opt for a pair of diamond or pearl studs, or even simple silver or gold studs. The focus is on the statement piece, but that doesn't mean the earrings should be ignored.
Creating Balance
When choosing which accessories to pair with your little black dress, it's important to focus on creating balance in your look.
What does this mean? That one of your accessories should be the focus of the look and the other accessories should complement it.
If you pair dangly earrings with a bib necklace and a chunky bracelet, you'll look overdone and tacky. Choose one of those accessories to be the focus and then choose simple accessories for the rest of your look.
If you choose earrings as your focus skip the necklace or wear a simple chain and choose a simple, thin bracelet. Small stud earrings are the perfect match for a statement necklace. With a chunky bracelet, choose stud earrings or simple drop earrings depending on your necklace choice—drop earrings for no necklace, studs with a simple necklace.
Remember that less is more. If you choose one elaborate accessory, it's okay to skip the others instead of searching for the right accessory to match.
This Is How to Accessorize a Black Dress for Every Occasion
If you follow these tips for how to accessorize a black dress, you're sure to create the perfect look for any occasion.
Remember that the type of event matters just as much as the dress when choosing your accessories. The fancier the event, the simpler and more classic the accessories should be. Save your statement pieces for a night out with friends or a casual dinner party.
Looking for more advice about how to accessorize for any occasion?
Check out our blog for expert tips.