How to Accessorize a Black Jersey Knit Dress

A little black dress should be versatile enough to go anywhere.

The basic black dress is a common item found in a woman's wardrobe. Knowing how to accessorize it can make your dress appear different each time you wear it. A black dress made from jersey knit provides some flexibility, as the material lends itself to casual comfort. But you can also dress it up into a formal style, depending on the accessories you choose. Once you have a variety of accessories to use, you'll be ready to go anywhere in your black dress.

Instructions

1. Choose jewelry items to suit the style you want the dress to show. Pair a single diamond necklace and stud earrings for a sophisticated look, or go for chunky, brightly colored bracelets and beads for a more relaxed style. White pearls can add both contrast and an upscale style to the dress.

2. Choose from pumps or heels to suit the location where you'll be wearing the dress. A simple pair of black shoes can scale down the look and match the dress, or highly decorative shoes can attract attention and brighten the dress to show off confidence.

3. Carry a long-strapped, small purse over your shoulder for formal events, a larger patchwork or patterned handbag for outdoor gatherings, or a medium-sized bag made from solid colors or leather if the gathering will be less formal but not relaxed. Matching your bag to your shoes or jewelry can create a finished look.

4. Select a brightly colored and patterned scarf made from silk or a polyester blend, to dress up the neckline of the black dress in a fun way. Solid-colored scarves without a pattern can look more sleek and sophisticated.

5. Wrap a thick belt around your dress at the waist, even if it doesn't have loops for it, to highlight your waistline. Use a black belt with a highly decorative buckle to add just a touch of pizzazz, or pick a colorful belt to really pump up the effect.

6. Wear small jackets or shrugs over the dress in colder months or for evening events where nighttime temperatures are cool. Keep the design of the shrug simple and the color black for a blended look, or add a jacket with bright colors, patterns or detailed embellishments to make you and the dress stand out.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the accessories to a minimum to get a simpler, more classic look, and add more accessories to get a modern appearance.

References

• "True Whit: Designing a Life of Style, Beauty, and Fun"; Whitney Port, Sheryl Berk; 2011
• "Effortless Style"; June Ambrose, Richard Buskin, Aimee Levy; 2007