How to Accessorise Your Dress: Complete Style Guide

The perfect accessories can transform a simple dress into a stunning outfit. Whether you're preparing for a casual brunch, important work meeting, or glamorous evening event, knowing how to accessorise is an essential style skill. This guide will teach you how to choose and coordinate accessories that elevate any dress in your wardrobe.

The Golden Rules of Accessorising

Before diving into specific accessories, let's establish some fundamental principles that will guide your styling decisions:

Rule 1: Balance is Everything

The key to great accessorising is achieving visual balance. If your dress is bold and statement-making, opt for simpler accessories. Conversely, a minimalist dress can handle more dramatic jewellery and accessories.

Rule 2: One Statement Piece

Choose one focal point for your outfit. This could be statement earrings, a bold necklace, an eye-catching bag, or dramatic shoes—but not all at once. Let one piece shine while others play supporting roles.

Rule 3: Consider the Neckline

Your dress's neckline should guide your jewellery choices. Different necklines call for different approaches to create the most flattering look.

Jewellery Guide by Neckline

V-Neck Dresses

• Best choice: Pendant necklaces that follow the V-shape
• Alternative: Layered delicate chains
• Skip: Chokers or collar necklaces (they fight the neckline)
• Consider statement earrings instead of a necklace for a modern look

Round & Scoop Necklines

• Best choice: Short pendant or single-strand necklace
• Alternative: Collar necklaces or statement pieces
• Multiple layered necklaces work beautifully
• Avoid necklaces that sit too close to the neckline—they should complement, not compete

High Neck & Turtleneck

• Best choice: Long pendant necklaces over the fabric
• Alternative: Statement earrings instead of a necklace
• Layer multiple long chains for visual interest
• Brooches can add an unexpected touch

Off-Shoulder & Strapless

• Best choice: Chokers or collar necklaces
• Alternative: Dramatic drop earrings with bare neck
• Multiple bracelets draw attention to the arms
• The exposed décolletage is a feature—don't cover it entirely

One-Shoulder & Asymmetric

• Best choice: Statement earring on the exposed side
• Alternative: Simple studs with a bracelet stack
• Skip necklaces entirely—they compete with the asymmetry
• Let the dress be the statement

Choosing the Right Shoes

Shoes can make or break an outfit. Here's how to select footwear that complements your dress:

For Maxi Dresses

• Casual: Wedge sandals or flat sandals
• Dressy: Strappy heels or block heels
• Winter: Ankle boots or heeled booties
• Choose a heel height that keeps the hem just above the ground

For Midi Dresses

• Casual: Ballet flats, loafers, or white sneakers
• Work: Pointed-toe pumps or mules
• Evening: Strappy heels or elegant mules
• Midi length is the most versatile—almost any shoe style works

For Mini Dresses

• Casual: Fashion sneakers or flat sandals
• Going out: High heels or heeled boots
• Winter: Knee-high boots
• Consider the proportion—very high heels may look too "going out" for casual settings

Shoe Colour Guidelines

• Nude heels: Elongate the leg, work with almost everything
• Black shoes: Classic, but can look heavy with light or bright dresses
• Metallic: A neutral that adds glamour without being too specific
• Matching shoes: Creates a streamlined, elongating effect
• Contrasting shoes: Makes a fashion statement—be intentional

Handbag Selection

Matching Your Bag to the Occasion

• Daytime casual: Tote bags, crossbody bags, or woven bags
• Work: Structured handbags or elegant totes
• Dinner out: Small shoulder bags or structured clutches
• Formal events: Evening clutches or minaudières

Accessorising for Different Occasions

Casual Weekend Look

Keep accessories relaxed and effortless:

• Delicate layered necklaces or simple studs
• A casual crossbody or tote bag
• Comfortable sandals, sneakers, or flats
• A stack of simple bracelets or a watch
• Sunglasses (a must for Australian weather!)

Office/Professional

Choose polished accessories that maintain professionalism:

• Classic stud earrings or small hoops
• Simple pendant necklace or single-strand pearls
• Structured handbag in a neutral colour
• Closed-toe heels or elegant flats
• A quality watch

Date Night

Add a touch of glamour without trying too hard:

• Statement earrings or a bold necklace
• Elegant heels or strappy sandals
• A chic clutch or small shoulder bag
• A touch of sparkle in jewellery

Formal Events

Go for refined elegance:

• Quality jewellery—pearls, diamonds, or quality costume pieces
• Evening clutch in metallic or complementary colour
• Elegant heels appropriate for the venue
• For racing events: a stunning fascinator or hat

Seasonal Accessorising Tips

Summer Accessories

• Straw bags and woven clutches
• Strappy sandals and espadrilles
• Colourful statement jewellery
• Sun hats and quality sunglasses
• Shell and bead jewellery for beach vibes

Winter Accessories

• Elegant scarves and wraps
• Boots and closed-toe heels
• Structured leather bags
• Gold and deep-toned jewellery
• Layered necklaces over high necklines

Common Accessorising Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-accessorising: More isn't always better. Edit your choices.
2. Ignoring proportion: Petite frames suit delicate jewellery; larger frames can carry bolder pieces.
3. Mismatched metals: While mixing metals is now accepted, do it intentionally, not randomly.
4. Uncomfortable shoes: If you can't walk confidently, the shoes aren't right.
5. Ignoring the occasion: A daytime event doesn't call for evening glitter.
6. Bag too big or too small: Match your bag size to the occasion's practical needs.

Building an Accessory Wardrobe

Invest in these essentials for maximum versatility:

• Earrings: Simple studs, elegant hoops, and one pair of statement earrings
• Necklaces: Delicate pendant, layering chains, and a statement piece
• Bags: Neutral tote, crossbody, structured handbag, and evening clutch
• Shoes: Nude heels, black heels, flat sandals, and comfortable flats
• Watch: A quality timepiece that goes with most outfits