How to Accessorize a Dress

One of the most feminine and elegant items of clothing that a woman can wear is definitely a dress. From long to short lengths, from fitted to A-line style, from cotton to silk material, dresses have always been a favorite item worn by many women for centuries. Maybe many aspects have changed along the line, such as the style, length, design, and so on, but it is still considered an elegant item that can be worn on both casual and elegant occasions.

If you want to know how to best emphasize your beautiful dress and how to properly accessorize it, continue reading and you will find many aspects related to this topic, from what accessories you could wear, to how to accessorize according to the style and color of the dress, or to the event. All these tips can definitely help you create a beautiful and well-accessorized look.

What Does it Mean to Accessorize a Dress?

Creating an entire outfit can be sometimes a hard job, especially in the days when you feel that nothing goes with anything. What you thought would be an amazing outfit and a great combination turns out to be a complete disaster. The same thing may happen when you accessorize your dress.

Accessorizing a dress is more than just choosing some random items and adding to your outfit and getting out the door. Before accessorizing your dress, you have to take into account so many items such as the weather, the location, the event, the formality of the event, the color of your dress, the material, and the list can go on. Not taking into account all these factors can lead to a badly coordinated outfit that could ruin your day. For example, you are about to attend a graduation. Knowing whether the graduation is outside (for example, on grass or on stone) or indoors can have a huge impact on what shoes you should choose. Opting for a pair of stilettos can turn into a huge disaster because if the event is outside, you may realize that you cannot move around because your heels get stuck in the grass.

Types of Fashion Accessories for Dresses?

Heels and purses are not the only accessorize that can go with dresses, so if you want to find types of accessories, continue reading:

Hair Accessories

Hair accessories are always a great addition to your look if you’re looking for something subtle, yet still elegant and with some flair. A few favorite hair accessories of mine are headbands, especially those made of silk or with tiny beats on it, hair clips with pearls on them, or a colorful scrunchie for the ponytail.

Jewelry

What woman doesn’t love accessorizing their dresses with jewelry? They may be the most feminine and elegant accessories that you could add to any outfit. From bracelets and rings to earrings and necklaces, you have so many options available. A favorite choice of mine is pendant necklaces, pearls, and tennis bracelets.

Handbag

Handbags are not only a pretty accessory, but they are also very useful, helping you carry everything that you need. The sky’s the limit when it comes to the style, material, or design of the handbags; you will find so many options, but here are 3 of my favorite choices: tote bag, flap bag, and mini bags.

Belts

Belts bring more than the utility side when incorporated in your outfits. They can emphasize your silhouette and accentuate your waist. You will find many options available, but some of my favorite options that I think would look amazing with dresses include the corset belt, the braided belt, and the pearl beaded belt.

Footwear

Deciding on what type of footwear to wear with your dress may be a hard decision, but all you have to remember is that you should consider the location and the color of your dress; consider this and you will be able to land on a pair. Some of my favorite choices when it comes to footwear that would go on many occasions are flats, chunky sneakers, and ankle boots.

Summer Accessories

You cannot think about summer and not mention sunglasses, flip-flops, and straw hats. These three accessories are perfect for so many summer activities, from going to the beach, going out for a drink, errands, and so on.

Winter Accessories

Accessorizing in winter can make all the difference. The right accessory can help you from turning into a popsicle on those harsh winter days, so be sure to choose wisely. My go-to choices every winter are wool scarves, beanies, and gloves. I am always certain I stay warm because of these items.

Phone Case

Phone cases can also be considered accessories. I love changing my phone cases according to the dress I pick in order to be sure that it matches the color and the design. You should always consider the design and message on your phone cases because they might not be suited for more formal settings, such as work or interviews, just like any other accessory.

Makeup

Choose the type of makeup you create according to the occasion. This accessory can take so many forms and colors, so it is impetus to take into account the dress, the event, and especially the time. Everyday makeup can be so different from one that is intended for an event later in the day.

Lipstick

The most loved accessory by women all over the world. The right lipstick can change your outfit 180 degrees and give you the confidence you need to slay the day. Of course, you still have to match your lipstick with the rest of your outfit, from the color of it to the effect it has, meaning matte or glossy.

Accessorizing for the Color of Your Dress

As I have said before, always take into account the color of your dress before choosing your accessories. Thus, continue reading to find some ideas about how to do that:

Match the Accessories with the Dress Color

There is nothing better and simpler than a monochromatic outfit, including the accessories. When you have no idea what color your accessory should be in order to match your dress, consider the simplest option of choosing accessories in the same color as your dress. This will definitely make your life easier and you would still look amazing. For example, if you have a beige dress, you can throw a beige purse and some beige stilettos and you would have a perfect outfit for a more formal occasion, such as a work or a date.

Match the Accessories with One of the Predominant Colors of the Dress

A dress that has more than two colors on it can be quite hard to accessorize because you feel like nothing matches it. In this case, you could choose the color that is most used and match the accessories only with that color. For example, if you have an A-line dress that has royal blue, pink, and emerald green on it, but the green shade is in a bigger percentage, then I would choose accessories that go only with the green hue. In this case, you could choose some gold jewelry or even a red purse, if you want to add another powerful color to your outfit.

Wear Bold Color Accessories with a Neutral Color Dress

There is nothing I love more than choosing simple, classic dresses that come in neutral colors, such as beige, white, ivory, or gray so that I can play with the accessories as much as I want and to choose some bold colors. Just think how good a beige dress would look combined with a pair of sparkling, red stilettos. Add a colorful scarf, with more shades of red, to your outfit and you have such a chic, elegant, and stylish look that would be perfect for dates, office days, interviews, presentations, and so on.

Wear Opposite Color Accessories of the Dress Color

Who doesn’t love a contrasting, but well-balanced outfit? The black-and-white look is definitely the most known and adored by women, being the staple of elegance, finesse, and femininity. However, your choice doesn’t stop there; there are so many opposite colors that would look so good together, such as yellow and royal blue, red and emerald green, beige and brown, and the list goes on. Just think how beautifully a red dress would look with an emerald green purse on your arm for a Christmas party at the office.

Accessorizing for the Style of Your Dress

Another important aspect that you have to take into account when accessorizing your dress is the style and design of the dress. Here are 8 types of styles for dresses and I will explain how you can best accessorize them:

V-Neck Dress

As the name suggests, a v-neck dress has a deep cleavage, so this would be a perfect excuse to wear a beautiful necklace, one that would really take all the attention. You could also opt for a chain body, depending on the event and the dress, which will accentuate your cleavage in an elegant manner.

Halter Neck Dress

This type of dress covers your entire chest area and has a material that goes around your neck. Wearing a necklace would be out of the question with this design, but earrings would be a perfect fit. I would opt for some big and splashy earrings, which will compliment your simple and elegant halter-neck dress.

Sleeveless Dress

You have many options when it comes to accessories for sleeveless dresses. You could wear a cuff bracelet or a big purse. With this type of dress, you want to dress up your arms so that the entire look feels like it’s continuing beyond the dress.

Long Sleeve Dress

This style is perfect for either colder days, such as in autumn or winter, or for more elegant occasions, such as weddings or parties. You have a couple of accessories that would pair with this dress, such as rings, and clutches. However, you should never wear a bracelet because it would not look well against the long sleeve.

Maxi Dress

Maxi dresses are perfect for any season, but they are the most loved and used in the summer because of their flowy design. As far as accessories go for this dress, a wide-brimmed hat will make your outfit look more interesting, and it’ll protect your hair from the sun if you’re going out on a sunny day.

Mini Dress

A mini dress calls for super-high heels, and a pair of ankle boots can be just as sexy and flattering. If you’re going to wear your hair down, consider adding in some statement earrings or a necklace that matches your shoes. This will definitely be perfect for a night out!

One Shoulder Dress

One-shoulder dresses are a great way to add some edge to your look, but they can be tricky to accessorize. One of my favorite choices is either a choker or a scarf—something that brings attention to the neckline. You can also wear a chunky necklace or bracelet that’s similar in color and style to your dress.

Strapless Dress

A strapless dress is always flashy and sexy, so you should choose your accessories in the same register. Try pairing your strapless dress with a bold necklace and earrings. Go for something that will really make a statement, like a chunky necklace in bright colors or an oversized statement earring.

Accessorize the Dress for the Occasion

Always keep in mind the occasion, so that you know how to accessorize. Here are 8 examples of events:

Wedding

Depending on your dress, choose the accessories wisely. If you have a sequin dress, then I would say that the sequins act like an accessory in itself and you would not need flashy jewelry; a simple pair of earrings and a clutch will be perfect for this occasion.

Cocktail Party

The key to accessorizing a dress for a cocktail party is to make sure every piece you add is elegant and has a purpose. Choose a clutch that complements the color scheme of your dress and shoes, but is also functional enough to hold all your essentials (phone, keys, ID, and so on).

Business Dinner

A business dinner is the time for you to dress more formally but still look your best. A simple dress may not do the trick, but the right accessory can change everything. If you’re looking for something that’ll add some flair to your dress, try adding a belt! This will give your outfit some extra pizzazz while also making sure it stays put.

Religious Ceremonies

For this event, I would suggest toning down the accessories as much as you can. All I would add to your outfit would be a purse to keep all your belongings and an appropriate pair of shoes, such as flats or boots for the colder seasons.

Interview

If you’re heading to an interview, you want to make sure that you look professional and polished. Keep your accessories to the minimum and if you add something, make sure that it is very small and almost unnoticeable (for example, earrings or bracelets).

Funeral

Funerals are a time to remember the person you loved and to celebrate their life. Be respectful of the departed and add as little embezzlement and flashiness to your outfit as you can. I would not add any jewelry for this occasion and I would try to choose only black items, even a black purse.

First Date

This is definitely a good occasion to wear your prettiest outfit and to make sure you look your best. Depending on the location, choose between flat shoes, such as sneakers, flats, or sandals, or some heels, such as stilettos, heeled boots, or heeled sandals. Add some pretty earrings to your ensemble and you have a winner!

Family Get-Together

For this occasion, try to keep your accessory to the minimum, considering there will be a lot of activities involved. A purse is always a good accessory and maybe some sunglasses, especially if the party is outside.

Matching Your Dress Accessories to Each Other

Your accessories should complement each other and create a whole with your dress. If you don’t know how to do that here are some ideas:

Wear Cool Color Accessories

Cool color accessories are the best way to accentuate your dress. Cool colors can be used to highlight the shape of your body and make it look more attractive. Coral, mint, turquoise and purple are some of the cool colors that can be used to highlight your dress in a very unique way.

Wear Warm Color Accessories

When you’re wearing a dress, there’s no need to shy away from color. In fact, the more you wear warm colors—like reds and oranges—the bolder your look will be. Try pairing your dress with a bright red belt or a fiery orange watch to make an even bigger statement.

Wear Neutral Color accessories

If you’re going to wear a dress, then you should also wear some accessories that will help to balance out your look. Neutral colors like brown and black are great for this. You can choose neutral colors for your earrings, necklace, and bracelet.

Material

The material of your dress should dictate the type of accessories you wear. For example, if you’re wearing a silk dress, go for some delicate jewelry that’s easily breakable. If it’s made from cotton or linen, go for something a little more sturdy and durable.

Creating a Fashion Look With Your Accessories

Create a Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of clothes that you can mix and match to create a variety of outfits. It’s perfect if you don’t have the time or energy to think about what you’re going to wear every day—or maybe just want to try something new!

Vintage Style Dress

The best thing about vintage dresses is that they can be paired with just about anything—and boots are no exception! You don’t have to go all out and get yourself an authentic pair; just make sure they match the color scheme of your outfit.

Bohemian Dress

There are a few accessories that go with bohemian dresses nicely. One of the most important is a scarf. You can tie it around your waist to accentuate the flowy nature of your dress. Another great option is jewelry, which can be subtle or flashy depending on what you choose and how you wear it!

Minimalist Dress

Jewelry is another must-have item when wearing minimalist dresses; it helps draw attention away from areas where there aren’t many details on the dress itself. If you’re looking for something simple but still special enough to stand out at an event, try simple gold hoops or silver studs!

Creative Dress

The best accessories for a creative dress are probably something that you already have. Maybe it’s a pair of shoes you’ve been dying to wear again, or maybe it’s a hat that matches the color of your dress. Don’t worry about finding new accessories; just be creative and use what you already have!

Edgy Dress

A pair of leather boots are the perfect accessory for an edgy dress, making you look fierce and powerful. You don’t have to wear them with your dress, but they’re great if you want to add an extra layer of toughness when wearing a dress like this.

Streetwear Dress

A streetwear dress is all about what’s next. It’s about adapting to the changing culture around you and wearing it on your sleeve. Accessories like sunglasses can help you do that. Sunglasses are a very important part of streetwear and they go with almost any outfit.

Elegant Chic Dress

You want to add simple, yet beautiful accessories that will complete your entire look. Thus, the best accessories for an elegant chic dress can be found in any store that sells high-quality jewelry, such as pearls or other jewelry made of gold or silver.

Final Thoughts about Accessorising Dresses

Accessories are the best way to add personality to your look. No one item says “you” like an accessory. A scarf, a necklace, some shoes, or even a belt; these are just a few of the ways that you can express yourself with accessories. If you’re stumped on what you should wear as an accessory, don’t worry! You’re not alone in this case. Learn all about choosing the right accessories for given occasions, as well as what items you shouldn’t choose at all.

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