The little black dress, or LBD, is more than a timeless classic for any wardrobe. Minimal and understated, the LBD can be flirty, fun, or stylishly professional, depending on how you accessorize. With dozens of ways to accentuate the dress with different accessories, you can wear it all the time with unique accessory combinations to create a new look each time.
While the LBD is endlessly versatile, certain combinations work best with different cuts and necklines. Classic silver and pearl do well with almost any LBD variation. It also keeps true to your intended look, creating a coherent ensemble. Classic pendants and timepieces add sophistication for office parties, while non-traditional jewelry pieces are great for creating a fun, edgy vibe.
Read on for inspiration on how to use jewelry to really make a statement on your next night out in a little black dress.
Accessorize Based on the Dress Style
Not all LBDs are created equal. So, the specific cut should inform your accessory strategy — whether it’s a V-neck, scoop-neck, high-neck, or strapless dress. It helps to keep a stock of accessories suitable for virtually any outfit.
- V-Necks are the most common LBD form and do wonders to elongate and emphasize your frame with the right accessories. Silver is trending again, and an 18-24 inch statement necklace or y-necklace perfectly complements the cut. Pearls are also a classic with the V-cut, creating a more formal, polished look.
- Scoop-Necks, or any LBD with a curved neckline, work well with a pendant or station necklace. Silver or pearl can add a distinguished note for date night, and pastel tones can bring out a feminine spring vibe in the outfit.
- High-Necks can epitomize sophistication when worn right. So skip the necklace in favor of a pair of statement earrings. And if the dress is sleeveless, consider a tennis bracelet or a minimalist wearable chain bracelet.
- Strapless LBDs can look boxy, depending on your physique and their cut above the bust. To offset the squareness, try dangle earrings or a chunky bracelet. For formal occasions, a large gem is sure to dazzle.
Choose a Look
While different cuts work better with different types and lengths of accessories, each leaves opportunities to try a different look. From prim and polished to funky and flirty, try the following accessories to get the most out of your secret weapon of fashion.
1. Boho-Chic
The Boho look is all about the accessories — and your LBD can bring out the details. Metallic rings, charm or braided bracelets, and tassel earrings are all fair game. Natural fibers in pastel tones play more casually, while metallic accents will add more of a chic tone.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with headwear or scarves, especially for a nouveau-hippy look. These pair well with high-top boots or moccasins. A denim jacket or woven sweater top can complete the look without outshining your LBD.
There you go! Hopefully, this guide to accessorizing your little black dress will help you next time you’re out. Are you a fan of any of these tips? Let us know in the comments below.
2. Flirty
Perfect for a date night or a reunion with friends, the flirty little black dress look uses minimalist touches to emphasize the power of the dress. A long necklace with bangle bracelets keeps true to the dress’s sleekness and form-fitting shape – silver, copper, or gunmetal complement well with the black for a more dressed-up occasion.
That said, pastel tones will also play surprisingly well. For a fun and funky look, try some chunky bracelets and matching earrings with your scoop neck or strapless LBD.
3. Edgy
When it’s time to hit the club or see a show, your LBD is ready to show off your inner edge. Textured leggings or a pair of flat or slouched boots can set the mood for the outfit. Wrist cuffs, ear cuffs, and cord bracelets work well in metallic tones.
If you’ve run the gamut on your current jewelry selection but haven’t found a piece to give you the right edge, grillz for women could be your answer. No longer just for men, these dental adornments come in many textures and tones. From white gold grillz to glitter enamel with bespoke cutouts, your LBD can bring out the best in these modern pieces of girly glam.
4. Formal
For a flawless formal look, you and your LBD need not over-accessorize. Best with a high-neck or v-neck LBD, classic necklaces like a tennis diamond necklace are bound to impress. A drop pair of statement earrings to match the necklace oozes sophistication — think minimal yet classic.
Avoid accessories on the wrists while focusing on the hands. If you’re stacking rings, balance the types of metal. Choose a nail polish that compliments the colors in the stack.
5. Dress-Casual
Any LBD can be dressed down with a few simple additions. Wearing flats or ankle boots with a coat sweater or oversized jacket is a great way to stay professional yet casual.
A big belt with sling-back heels lets your LBD speak out more while still being appropriate for an office party or night out with coworkers. A watch with a band to match your belt perfetcly adds to the dress-casual look.
Featured image via cottonbro studio on Pexels
