How to Accessorize a Black Dress for Teens

Every teen should have a little black dress.

The little black dress has been a staple for women of all ages since Coco Chanel coined the phrase in the 1920s. The LBD should be a versatile, affordable, long-lasting addition to a woman's wardrobe -- one she can turn to when no other piece of clothing will do. It's an essential garment every woman or girl 15 and older should own. Your elegant, simple LBD can be dressed up or down to suit your style.

Simplicity

Choose your LBD to take you through your teen years into young adulthood -- make it a simple style. You should be able to style it so you can wear it to a college interview, out shopping that afternoon, and to dinner to celebrate landing your first job. It should have just enough panache that you can dress it up for your best friend's graduation party, or a cocktail party when you graduate from college.

Daywear

A teen heading out for a college interview or that special job interview can dress down her LBD with a stylish, short-cropped fitted jacket, turning the dress into a trendy suit. Add a wide belt over the jacket to keep it up to date, and a pair of neutral-color low heels for a serious look. Twist a scarf around your neck to add a burst of color. Dress it down with a cotton cable knit sweater, a pair of flats and a bright shoulder bag when you're out shopping or spending time at the movies.

Evening

Throw a pashmina shawl over your shoulders for evening to dress up your little black dress. If it's cold outside, add a faux fur jacket or one made from lined silk. Add dark stockings and black patent leather heels to make your legs look three miles long.

Jewelry

Keep your little black dress stylish and young with contemporary jewelry that fits the occasion. Choose a vintage-style necklace of multistrand crystals for a party look, or a statement necklace collar for a date. A three-strand necklace in bright colors works well for daytime. Try wearing clashing patterns to accessorize your little black dress, advises "Teen Vogue." If you're wearing your dress to a fancy affair, add sparkling jewelry in the form of Swarovski crystal earrings and a big, bold ring to keep the look current.

Color

A youthful burst of color from a belt, scarf or handbag keeps things modern. Add an ethnic multicolored woolen belt and shoes to match to wear on the job, or pair the dress with a bright, vintage beaded purse for a special date. Complement the style with colorful, strappy sandals in summer or a new pair of fashion heels and a coordinating purse. If you're really daring, wear it with a colorful Mohawk hairstyle and a pair of butter soft, turquoise leather ankle boots.

References

• Teen Vogue: How to Add Pop to Your Little Black Dress
• DivaVillage: Spice Up Your LBD