Style Guide: How To Accessorise A Black Dress

Style Guide: How To Accessorise A Black Dress

Sandra De Gregorio Sandra De Gregorio
17 minute read

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The black dress, it's the most versatile piece of clothing that exists in the world of fashion, and we girls just love it! Rest assured hanging inside every woman's closet is her little black dress; simple and sophisticated and ready to be styled with the perfect accessories.  

There's a whole history that surrounds the black dress, and when you take a look back through time you can begin to understand the impact of the little black dress in the world of fashion, and it becomes immediately clear that there's actually nothing 'little' about it. 

In this guide, we take different versions of the black dress and tell you exactly what accessories to pair with them for a winning look. How to accessorise a black dress comes down to the style, cut, and fabric of the gown, but the occasion will play a big part in determining the right accessories to complete your overall look.  Firstly there's a whole history that surrounds the black dress, and as it goes, there's nothing little about it!   You can't just pair any necklace, bracelet, or earrings with a black dress and expect to catch some glances and turn some heads, no-no! there's a method on how to accessorise a little black dress that can determine how successful your look will be.  Shop & Learn

How To Accessories A Black Dress

Overview:

 

The Right Accessories For A Black Dress

How To Accessorise A Black Dress | The Right Accessories For A Black Dress

A black dress is most likely the only item of clothing that can be styled to suit any occasion.  With this concept in mind comes the ability to purpose-choose the accessories that will fit the mood of the style you are trying to achieve.  Choosing the right jewellery, bags and shoes to accessories with though is no easy task! At Grahams jewellers, we have some ideas on how to accessories different versions of the little black dress with some specific jewellery designs.

If the occasion calls for some class, then your little black dress should be a standout feature with subtle gold accessories that can include diamonds a gemstone or pearls.  Incorporating a minimalist piece of gold or silver jewellery that's adorned with pearls, gemstones or diamonds will instantly up-style your look, no matter the cut or style of the black dress.  Grahams jewellers have a huge selection of minimalist jewellery that would be an ideal accessory for an elegant look to a standout black dress.  Complete the classic look with some stiletto heels, an expensive clutch or a power handbag and enjoy the attention it will bring you. 

If the aim is to achieve a more casual style with your choice of black dress, then your accessories can be more playful.  Silver jewellery is a great black dress accessory to compliment a causal look; Silver jewellery that plays with colourful gemstones or zirconia, initial necklaces, charms, lockets or a pair of cute studs or hoop earrings will certainly expel a more casual vibe to your black dress.  Grahams jewellers have an entire collection of silver jewellery for accessorising a more relaxed style of black dress.  Complete the casual look with a pair of white sneakers, a crossbody bag or carryall tote and a nice pair of sunnies or a bucket hat. 

Silver, Gold or Gemstones To Accessorise A Black Dress

Silver, Gold or Gemstones To Accessorise A Black Dress

The little black dress should always be adorned with jewellery and with black as the base colour, any other coloured jewellery accessory will do.  Whether it be a pair of cute studs with black gemstones or sophisticated gold earrings, a statement pearl necklace or a simple silver bracelet, the colour of jewellery can transform the little black dress into a masterpiece. 

Silver Accessories on a black dress

Try silver accessories like a long silver necklace or a striking silver bangle which you can shop online at Grahams jewellers.  Silver jewellery pairs extremely well with a little black dress, elevating it from a modest look to a glamorous one.  Silver accessories should be the colour of choice to pair with a black dress for those with a paler skin tone.  Black is such a bold colour and may become overpowering on its own.  Adding a silver accessory to a black dress when you have a paler complexion is a subtle way to compliment your look rather than overtake it. 

Sterling Silver 15mm Flat Heart Pendant

Sterling Silver 15mm Flat Heart Pendant

$14.99 $29.99

Crafted in smooth sterling silver, this heart pendant can be added to your favourite chain.… read more

Silver jewellery, with its shiny lustre,  can turn an evening gown into a showstopper.  In this way, silver is a sophisticated colour choice to accessorise a black dress for a wedding because of the metal's precious attributes and natural glimmering colour spectrum.  While silver jewellery pairs well with a black dress to achieve a stunning formal look, the real magic of a silver-coloured accessory on a black dress is the subtle relaxed vibe it can contribute to the little black dress. 

Sterling Silver Plain 65mm Bangle

Sterling Silver Plain 65mm Bangle

$99.50 $199.00

A must-have silver jewellery staple, this Sterling Silver Plain 65mm Bangle can be dressed up or down, it all depends on you! … read more

Silver jewellery pairs well with a black tee dress more than any other coloured accessory because of the precious metal's natural versatility.   A simple silver initial necklace on a little black dress, maxi dress or midi dress with some plain silver sleepers is all that's required to equip oneself for running out the door in style and actually wanting to be seen!

Sterling Silver Plain 10mm Sleeper Earrings

Sterling Silver Plain 10mm Sleeper Earrings

$14.99 $29.99

A jewellery staple, these sleeper earrings in sterling silver are a must-have. Made in Australia… read more

Gold Accessories on a black dress

Although silver accessories pair well with a black dress to create an elegant formal or casual look, a black dress with gold accessories is still the ultimate pairing.  There is no contest when comparing the value of gold and silver; gold is the more expensive precious metal and will make the most impact against a black dress.  In saying this, when factoring in a person's complexion, the ideal colour of accessories will change to suit a person's skin tone.   In the same way that silver accessories complement a paler complexion, gold accessories outperform silver against a black dress when the person's complexion has a deeper tan or darker skin tone.   

9ct Yellow Gold Infinite Love Diamond Pendant

9ct Yellow Gold Infinite Love Diamond Pendant

$299.50 $599.00

If you’re stumped on a gift idea this gorgeous Gold Infinite Diamond Pendant makes for the perfect present. With a slightly asymmetrical design and diamond embellishment, it’s tasteful, stunning and sure to be remembered for years to come.… read more

Nothing can compare to a dainty gold necklace with diamonds when accessorising a black dress for a wedding or formal event, except more gold! Gold on black is a classic look and will always be in fashion.  threader gold earrings are a stunning choice of accessory on a black midi dress.  Never underestimate the power of gold accessories to accompany a black dress, no matter the style of accessory; earrings, necklace, or bracelet, gold jewellery will only enhance your style and make even the most basic look more elaborate. 

9ct Yellow Gold Knot Stud Earrings

9ct Yellow Gold Knot Stud Earrings

$149.50 $299.00

Simple and sophisticated, these chich 9ct Yellow Gold Knot Stud Earrings are perfect for a laid back look.… read more

Coloured Accessories on a black dress

Coloured gemstones or jewellery that features a coloured birthstone or coloured diamonds always looks stunning against a black dress.  Black is a neutral colour so pairing it with coloured accessories is a clever choice to lift the dullness of the black.  A coloured gemstone ring, gemstone earrings or a gemstone-featured bracelet will stand out against a black dress and achieve a more playful style.

Gold Plated Sterling Silver Thomas Sabo Charm Club Multi Colour Ear Climbers

Gold Plated Sterling Silver Thomas Sabo Charm Club Multi Colour Ear Climbers

$99.00

Add some colour to your day with these bright Gold Plated Sterling Silver Thomas Sabo Charm Club Multi Colour Ear Climbers. These delicate wonders are so striking that they can't go unnoticed. The attention to detail is evident at every… read more

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Gemstone jewellery is flattering to any person's complexion and is a popular choice when contemplating accessories for a black dress. Even black diamonds look flawless on a black dress because the two blend into one another without separating the accessories from the overall look of the black dress.  A nice pair of black gemstone earrings, a black gemstone necklace or a black gemstone bracelet combine well with a black dress to create a look that is simply outstanding and consistent.  This style of gemstone accessory can be manipulated to accompany either a formal or casual look to a black dress.  Try adding a black watch from Grahams to a black dress and you will see that the style is simply breathtaking!

Thomas Sabo Magic Stones Sterling Silver Onyx statement Ring

Thomas Sabo Magic Stones Sterling Silver Onyx statement Ring

$229.00

Make a bold statement with this stunning Thomas Sabo Magic Stones Sterling Silver Onyx statement Ring. The centre stone features a beautiful onyx stone that has a gorgeous lustre. Elevate your look with a dress piece that will add a… read more

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Necklaces For A Black Dress With A V-Neck

Necklaces For A Black Dress With A V-Neck

A black dress that has a V-neck design should be paired with a necklace that has a pendant attached to it.  A long pendant necklace with a drop of at least 50cm will stand out on a V-neck dress to enhance the overall style, fill the void of skin and accentuate the neckbones.  If the necklace has a bolder appeal to it then there's no need to add earrings, as the necklace will be substantial enough to stand on its own.  When choosing an accessory for a V-neck dress think bold necklaces with a pendant or charm at the bottom to weigh down the chain and create a similar V-shaped drop, an initial pendant from Grahams is the type of pendant necklace you should be styling with a black v-neck dress.

9ct Yellow Gold Silverfilled Initial "J" Pendant on 42+3cm Chain

9ct Yellow Gold Silverfilled Initial

$59.00

Do you know someone who’s name starts with “J”? We’ve got the perfect product for them. The 9ct Yellow Gold Silverfilled Initial J Pendant is a gift worth giving. Crafted from premium 9ct gold the chain will feel comfortable around… read more

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Earrings For A Scoop Neck Dress That's Black

Earrings For A Scoop Neck Dress That's Black

The black scoop neck dress is a timeless design that complements most body types.  The most amazing feature of a scoop neck dress is the jewellery choices to accessorise with.  A scoop neck design is usually low cut enough to catch a glimpse of cleavage, so choosing a pair of drop earrings or statement hoops instead of a necklace is a better choice of accessory.  It really doesn't matter what style of earrings you choose; bigger is better on a black scoop-neck dress because your style will appear more pronounced.  We just love big earrings, dangle earrings, drop earrings or hoop earrings; get creative with your choice of earrings on a black scoop neck dress with a selection of earrings available to shop at Graham's jewellers online and in-store.  

Sterling Silver Plain 50mm Hoop Earring

Sterling Silver Plain 50mm Hoop Earring

$31.99 $79.99

A classic piece, these Sterling Silver Plain 50mm Hoop Earrings are a must–have. Crafted in quality sterling silver with amazing shine and lustre, these hoops will reflect beautifully in the light. Complete with a latch back clasp that is comfortable… read more

9ct Yellow Gold Lock Key & Heart On Ring Drop Earrings

9ct Yellow Gold Lock Key & Heart On Ring Drop Earrings

$159.00

A piece that will stand out against the rest, these beautiful 9ct Yellow Gold Lock Key & Heart On Ring Drop Earrings. Crafted in the warm tones of yellow gold that has a touch of luxury, these earrings are the… read more

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Accessories For A Long Strapless Dress

Accessories For A Long Strapless Dress | Diamonds & Pearls

There's nothing more elegant than a long, black, strapless dress.  A strapless dress creates the perfect canvas for an accessory; think ropes and ropes of pearls or a stunning set of Australian Diamond jewellery to feature with your long strapless dress.  When contemplating how to accessorise a black dress for a wedding, a strapless dress is usually the style of dress that comes to mind.  There is nothing more elegant than a long, black strapless dress when considering an outfit for a wedding and there's no clear choice of jewellery to pair except jewellery and accessories that look expensive and flattering to the simplicity of the strapless dress.  The addition of a delicate bracelet will only enhance the look of a black strapless dress, as more jewellery will never outdo the style, our suggestion is a pearl necklace, pearl earrings and a pearl bracelet.

180cm White Freshwater Pearl Strand

180cm White Freshwater Pearl Strand

$249.00 $599.00

This white Freshwater Pearl strand is a must have for any pearl enthusiast. At 180 cm it’s easily customisable: wear as is for an elongated, ethereal look or double it for a more bespoke, chic appearance.… read more

 

T-Shirt Dress Accessories

Black Tee Dress | How To Accessories A Black Dress With Jewellery

The t-shirt dress is the most versatile style of any dress and is certainly the black dress of choice for females in Australia.  The neat casual summertime dress code is embedded in Australian culture and for women, there's nothing more appealing than throwing on a cute black dress tee, some white sneakers and simple charms; necklace, bracelet or anklet.  The black t-shirt dress is the one item of clothing that will never fail you as it always appears so well put together, without much effort required.  The best part of the black t-shirt dress is how creative one can get when accessorising with it by adding simple jewellery.    

Little Girls & The Little Black Dress

Little girls look so adorable in a black t-shirt dress paired with a cute pair of small studs; our pick is a set of Disney Beauty and The Beast Stainless Steel Princess Belle Studs by Couture Kingdom, available at Grahams online. The Belle Studs are dainty and youthful, with a stunning imprint of the fiercely smart and loving Princess in her signature pose.  These colourful studs stand out so remarkably against a black t-shirt dress, and voila- accessories are sorted, and little girls everywhere are happy ' win-win!  For the little ones that don't have their ears pierced, a nice Disney-themed chain or an initial necklace or charm will look equally amazing on a simple black tee dress, Grahams stocks a huge range of Couture Kingdom jewellery accessories for little girls to simply adore.  

Disney Beauty And The Beast Stainless Steel Princess Belle Stud Earrings

Disney Beauty And The Beast Stainless Steel Princess Belle Stud Earrings

$14.99

The perfect gift for the ultimate Disney enthusiast. Disney Beauty And The Beast Stainless Steel Princess Belle Stud Earrings are dainty and youthful, with a stunning imprint of the fiercely smart and loving Princess in her signature pose. Made from… read more

Teenagers & The Black Tee Dress

Young female teens absolutely love the concept of the black t-shirt dress, and they have fun accessorising it.  Teens love the convenience and the simple throw-it-on and step-out-in-style look that the tee dress provides.  The accessories of choice for a teenager to pair with her black t-shirt dress that falls above the knee include anything designer labelled like a Calvin Klein watch or a Thomas Sabo charm club necklace or bracelet.  The T-shirt dresses Australia trend is here to stay, and girls are loving the look and the simplicity of the black t-shirt dress to show off their designer accessories.  Shop online at Grahams for a huge range of designer jewellery and watches that include Adidas OriginalsGuess, Armani Exchange, Couture Kingdom and Georgini to add a piece of jewellery that will intensify the look of a short black t-shirt dress for the youth. 

Adidas AOST22035 Project Two White Unisex Watch

Adidas AOST22035 Project Two White Unisex Watch

$129.95

The Adidas AOST22035 Project Two White Unisex Watch is a sleek and versatile timepiece that effortlessly blends sporty design with modern aesthetics. Powered by a reliable quartz movement, this watch provides accurate timekeeping. With its unisex design and 38mm case… read more

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Thomas Sabo Sterling Silver Together Rings On 40-45cm Chain

Thomas Sabo Sterling Silver Together Rings On 40-45cm Chain

$125.30 $179.00

Be united forever with the Thomas Sabo Sterling Silver Together Rings necklace. The timeless necklace features two interconnected open circle pendants that sit well balanced on a 40-45cm chain. The rings represent eternity, empowerment and friendship; one shimmering in pave… read more

Women & The Black Shirt Dress

Women of Australia are very much embracing the black t-shirt dress trend and the choices of accessories it presents them.  Shirt dresses for women come in many colours, but it's the black t-shirts dress that provides the biggest impact in the fashion world.  A woman can step out in her black shirt dress styled with a nice pendant necklace, some simple sleepers in silver or gold, a mix of bangles, and a cute anklet or two for her look to be completely fashionable. Women should add a watch to their shirt dress to really enhance their style; our pick is the Thomas Sabo TWA0369 Dragonfly Women's Watch with a striking gold band and colourful dial, available to shop at Grahams online.   

When contemplating the length of a dress tee, a long shirt dress is usually the one that will provide the most versatility to a woman's style.   It doesn't take much effort for a woman to stand out in her long shirt dress with some clever jewellery accessories to accentuate her style.  Add a nice smartwatch, like the Active Pro Call+ II Smart Watch from Grahams jewellers for the added convenience of a timepiece to your black shirt dress. 

Shop at Grahams jewellers online or in-store today for a huge selection of quality jewellery accessories to compliment any style of black dress. 

 

FAQ

How To Accessorise A Black Dress | A Complete Guide

How do you glam up a plain black dress?

You should treat a black dress like a blank canvas to be glammed up. Wear a colourful belt to give your black dress a pop of colour and try some colourful jewellery to accessorise your black dress, like some gemstone adorned earrings, necklace or bracelet.  Statement earrings are always a go-to accessory to glam up a plain black dress, try drop earrings that are two-toned for an extra sharp look and never underestimate the power of some silver hoop earrings on a plain black dress.  If you want to really glam up your plain black dress, think about adding earrings or pendants that have sparkling diamonds.  There is only one rule to glamming up a plain black dress and that is; jewellery, jewellery and more jewellery! Add the right jewellery to your plain black dress and you will always achieve a glam look, read our style report on How to Accessorise a Black Dress to know what jewellery will achieve the right look for your little black dress.   

How do you accessorize a plain black dress for a party?

It's simple to accessorise a plain black dress for a party and it all comes down to the occasion you are dressing for.

Go casual in the warmer weather by adding some vibrant colours to your black dress, keeping your accessories simple yet playful, think gemstones and colourful zirconia in your jewellery.  Adding white sneakers is a trend that will instantly glam up the black dress whilst keeping it casual.  For a workplace look, try to add some leggings and throw in a blazer, this will instantly upstyle your black dress for the office, remember to choose a dress that has a conservative neckline and always add a nice pendant necklace to complete your office look. 

Add a leather jacket to your black dress for a night out on the town.  The little black dress complements any body shape and will certainly never fail you for a night out with the girls.  Grab your leather jacket - any colour will do, a cute clutch and some gold or silver earrings, and go where the night takes you.  If it's a date night, glam up the black dress with some killer stiletto heels and bring out your more expensive jewellery like a diamond set necklace and earrings, a dainty bracelet will also look fabulous!   

How do you accessorize a black dress casual?

If the aim is to achieve a more casual style with your choice of black dress, then your accessories can be more playful.  Silver jewellery is a great black dress accessory to compliment a causal look; Silver jewellery that plays with colourful gemstones or zirconia, initial necklaces, charms, lockets or a pair of cute studs or hoop earrings will certainly expel a more casual vibe to your black dress.  Grahams jewellers have an entire collection of silver jewellery for accessorising a more relaxed style of black dress.  Complete the casual look with a pair of white sneakers, a crossbody bag or carryall tote and a nice pair of sunnies or a bucket hat. 

How do you accessorize a black maxi dress?

A black maxi dress is a perfect dress to accessorise because it's long and has a flow to it.  Accessorise your maxi dress with silver or gold jewellery such as an initial necklace and add a nice pair of studs or drop earrings to compliment the shape and length of the long black maxi dress.  Think about playing with a colourful mix of bangles as a staple accessory to your black maxi dress; 3 or 4 bangles will be enough to achieve a striking look.  In fact, make it a rule to add bangles to a black maxi dress because bangles will instantly upstyle and excite your overall look.     

How do you accessorize a little black dress?

A little black dress is most likely the only item of clothing that can be styled to suit any occasion.  With this concept in mind comes the ability to purpose-choose the accessories that will fit the mood of the style you are trying to achieve.  Choosing the right jewellery, bags and shoes to accessories a little black dress comes down to a well-thought-out formula.   

If the occasion calls for some class, then your little black dress should be a standout feature with subtle gold accessories that can include diamonds a gemstone or some pearls.  Complete the classic look with some stiletto heels, an expensive clutch or a power handbag and enjoy the attention it will bring you. 

If the aim is to achieve a more casual style with your little black dress then your accessories can be more playful.  Silver jewellery is a great little black dress accessory to compliment a casual look.  Try silver jewellery like the trending initial pendant, charms, lockets or a pair of cute studs or hoop earrings. Complete the casual look with a pair of white sneakers, a crossbody bag or carryall tote and a nice pair of sunnies or a bucket hat. 

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