How to Accessorize the Little Black Dress?

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The little black dress, you know it, right?

Timeless and a true symbol of the wardrobe and feminine silhouette, this piece is so simple yet has given style to many women who have honored it. 

If it has stood the test of time, it is still today a source of inspiration for creators and brands who enjoy deconstructing it to offer models with ever more inventive cuts and materials.

But does this give us material to know how to wear the little black dress?

No. So, let me share with you in this article some tips on how to dress well with a little black dress, with an angle: that of accessorizing. In this post, you will understand why this iconic piece is still a must-have in the feminine wardrobe, in what styles you can wear it, but especially how to accessorize the little black dress.

The little black dress: the essential piece in a wardrobe to vary looks

The little black dress: the timeless staple of the feminine wardrobe

It was at the end of the 1920s that the little black dress or “The Little Black Dress” became known thanks to Coco Chanel. Through the lens of the designer, many simple and sophisticated creations emerged, including the little black dress. This piece, a true symbol of Coco Chanel’s vision, embodies the idea of breaking the stylistic codes of the time to give women a sense of freedom in the clothes they wear. A great success, this creation has stood the test of time without ever fading away. 

Even today, the little black dress is known to all. On the runways, in fashion houses, in the wardrobes of our mothers as well as those of young girls, the little black dress is reinterpreted according to the codes and desires of each individual. 

It is a fashion creation that has never aged. However, with new stylistic currents, the dress has become contemporary. If once it was known as a simple knee-length dress adorned with a modest collar, it is quite different today. Designers and brands play with the iconic little black dress by offering models with bold cuts, surprising combinations, and the addition of ever more whimsical fabrics like tulle. 

Accessorizing has become a trendy practice to reinvent one’s own version of the basic little black dress.

But rest assured, despite these embellishments, the little black dress has never strayed from its main objective: to enhance all silhouettes.

One dress, multiple styles

This is surely the primary advantage that the little black dress offers: it can be worn with anything, allowing you to shift from one style to another without having to overhaul your wardrobe. In short, with the little black dress, you can indulge in looks you might not have thought of. This is the beauty of wearing a basic piece.

For example, with the little black dress, you can think of outfits for both day and night. You can be seduced by a 100% preppy look with a short-sleeved knit little black dress paired with loafers, black tights, and a trench coat. Or dare to be more daring with a very short, form-fitting little black dress, a pair of chunky boots or Dr. Martens, opaque or patterned tights, and a black leather jacket. And why not play the red carpet by sporting a stunning designer little black dress with an asymmetrical cut or open back for your holiday party outfit or New Year’s Eve?

You see, the little black dress offers the advantage of being able to be styled in a variety of cuts and ways to give very different looks, yet always timeless. This asset is what makes it a must-have in the feminine wardrobe. 

But like any basic piece, this type of item enjoys being accessorized to bring a bit of relief and “humanity” to the outfit. But there’s no need to complicate things. So, let’s explore together how to subtly add a little “je ne sais quoi” to your outfit to enhance the little black dress, and yourself in the process.

Accessorizing the little black dress: 3 avenues to explore

Keeping it simple with accessories, is that possible? That’s what we’re going to try to explore in this second part with ideas for combinations you can implement into your style starting from a little black dress.

Wearing a little black dress with jewelry

This is the first avenue that seems the most obvious to me: pairing your little black dress with jewelry. 

Depending on the outfit, circumstances, and style, you will need to manage the dosage of jewelry. But you can retain that with a little black dress, we generally go for fine, rather discreet jewelry. 

For example, if you’re wearing a beautiful evening little black dress. A pair of earrings, a necklace, or a diamond ring will be more than enough to complete your outfit. Conversely, if you opt for a casual or urban day little black dress, you can add some jewelry, even if the little black dress loves essentialism. 

I would say there’s one last option that strays a bit from the beaten path. If you’re the type who likes to wear colors. You can also contrast your little black dress with a pair of orange or lilac earrings. It’s a subtle way to add a touch of color, break the codes, and bring a bit more life to your outfit. 

Pairing the little black dress with other rock’n roll pieces to break the codes

The other avenue is to pair your little black dress with other more standout pieces from your wardrobe to create a unique combination. I’m thinking particularly of the slip dress, which is a satin dress combined with knitwear, and a pair of platform boots or cowboy boots. It’s a look particularly in vogue this season that gives you a feminine vibe while keeping you warm. 

As a day outfit idea with a little black dress, it’s ideal.

But the combinations with pieces from the wardrobe are endless. You can play with volumes with oversized clothing like the combo of a short, form-fitting little black dress with an oversized blazer. One can opt for a slit little black dress with a pair of thigh-high boots for a bold and sexy look. But the combo of a knit little black dress with sneakers or a pair of fur-lined boots works just as well for cold days. 

Handbags, scarves, and hats: other accessory ideas to elevate your little black dress

Another idea to accessorize your little black dress: the belt. Simple and effective, it’s a detail that is often forgotten but can elevate the outfit. For more glamour, choose a jeweled one!

On the hat side, you also have choices. A cap for a streetwear or comfy look, a beret or newsboy cap for a preppy or classic look, a cloche hat or fedora for a touch of vintage. 

And finally, regarding trendy handbags, you can easily turn to the baguette bag, one of the it bags of the season. Small and delicate, it pairs very well with a classic or chic outfit. But other essentials like tote bags, crossbody bags, or bucket bags are also good options.

Ideas for pieces to shop to accessorize the little black dress

You’ve understood, there’s not much that doesn’t work with a little black dress. I would say that where you can make a fashion faux pas is by trying to do too much with this type of piece. Like any basic piece, the little black dress thrives on minimalism. So, if you’re considering accessorizing the little black dress, think subtlety, whether it’s in the choice of your jewelry, hair accessories, or other wardrobe items. 

But know that the little black dress is a wonderful playground for dressing up.

Moreover, check out our ideas for little black dresses to shop. From traditional pieces to sexy little black dresses, Nastasia shares 8 of her inspirations in another article.

💡 For more dress ideas to wear, discover our guide on choosing your autumn dress.

Image credit: © Sandra Semburg