A black dress is a wardrobe staple, inspiring many outfit ideas and working flexibly in different settings. Learn how to style a black dress for various occasions. A versatile black dress works in all seasons and almost all settings. See how you can get the most out of your black dress with these outfit ideas:
- Go Casual During Summertime
Summer outfits are usually an opportunity for brighter, vibrant colors, but you can opt for a trendy, casual look by pairing a strapless black dress with a pair of white sneakers. Shoulder a tote bag and throw on a summer hat, and you’ll be ready for the beach or farmers’ market.
- Add leggings and a blazer for the office
The black dress can be for the workplace as well. Wear booties, tights, and a blazer with your black dress for smart casual offices. Dresses with conservative necklines work best for workwear.
- Throw on a leather jacket for a night out
Leather jackets, like black dresses, work with all body shapes, so you can customize your casual outfit by wearing a colorful leather jacket with your black dress.
- Go formal on a date night
Wear a black midi dress with heels for a night out or more formal events, and accentuate your outfit with some fancier add-ons like jewelry.
- Complete your look with knee-high boots
Your black cocktail dress can go with many forms of shoewear. Heels can work in warmer weather, and knee-high boots go great in cooler months, especially if you wear a shorter midi dress.
- Wear a Colorful Belt
You can add a belt over a black dress for a pop of color or accentuate your waistline. Try tossing on a sun hat with a belt that matches the hat’s color to bring your outfit together in the summer.
- Add Statement Earrings
A pair of earrings can go well with your little black dress, especially for more formal occasions.
- Don a Necklace
Adding a statement necklace gives a focal point to your outfit and can act as a personal touch.
- Put on a denim jacket
More casual black dresses made of cotton, linen, or lighter materials can be worn with a denim jacket for a more informal and comfortable look.
- Put on a Crossbody Bag
A clutch purse can be more elegant for fancier occasions, but a crossbody bag goes well with more casual looks and gives you an easy place to store your phone, wallet, and more.
- Be Comfortable In what you wear
Almost every clothing brand sells a version of the black dress, but sizes may vary from store to store. If shopping online, check out the exact measurements of the dress, or when buying in person, be sure to try it on first so that you feel comfortable and confident.
- Go for an all-black look
A simple way to style a black dress is to wear black from head to toe. Try an all-black outfit by adding a black leather jacket, black shoes, and/or black leggings to your LBD.
