I am a huge fan of little white dresses. It’s the one item of clothing in your wardrobe that reads as both classic and chic, versatility personified. Before I head out to that fancy brunch or find myself trying not to sweat too much at a summer wedding, if it had lace in the title and was white…this girl. But as you know – white can be a little….boring. And with that, how do we add some pop to this classic-staple? The accessories are the answer.
1. Big, Bold Statement Jewelry
For me, there could be something sexy about statement jewelry paired with a white dresses. White is a neutral so it can go with practically every color or pattern, and there are other items that provide the contrast to make one stand out. Oversized earrings, chunky necklaces and bold bracelets are my favorite thing to pair with basic clothes that elevates the whole look.
I feel this is well represented in my very lackluster slip dress-white with one of the largest turquoise everywhere necklaces. Immediately the outfit is styled and on purpose. Another trick? Instead, choose large gold hoops or bold pieces studded with colorful stones. They add colorful vibrance and transform a mundane dress into an unforgettable ensemble.
2. Bold Belts: Define Your Silhouette
When it comes to styling, an adequately chosen belt is a must with a white dress. I’ve learned that a bold belt could change the silhouette of the dress, providing it with structure and that essential oomph. If I am wearing a flowy white dress and it feels a bit shapeless, the easiest way to make it polished is cinching at my waist with some standout belts.
I love playing with different textures when choosing belts. The classic choice is, of course, one wide leather belt with gold details; I also like playing with woven or braided styles for that more bohemian look. If you are more daring, then a brightly colored belt-red, black, or even leopard print-will add that playful touch to your outfit. It’s all about making the waist the focal point and using the belt as a statement accessory in its own right.
3. Pop of Color with Handbags
Another way to take your white dress from basic to boss? A bold handbag. I am a huge fan of tossing on a colorful handbag with an all-white outfit because it’s literally the easiest, no-effort way to bring contrast and excitement. Plus, practicality!
I love that whenever I’m wearing a white dress, reaching for handbags in vibrant colors is my favorite thing to do-red, electric blue, or mustard yellow. They add energy and personality to my overall look without feeling overwhelming. The best part is that whether it’s sleek and crossbody, structured and tote, or playful and clutch, the handbag elevates the outfit and can always serve a purposeful function. Really, you can’t go wrong with a statement bag to really tie the whole look together.
4. Layered Necklaces: Simple yet sophisticated
Layering necklaces is one of those failsafe tricks that never fails to add a touch of sophistication into whatever you wear, and a white dress isn’t excluded. I like layering delicate gold and silver chains in varied lengths to achieve that cascading effect, adding depth and just that oomph of visual interest. It is understated as a means of accessorizing, but it does the magic of making your white dress look effortlessly chic.
My favorite mix is a white midi dress with three necklaces: a short choker, a mid-length pendant, and an extra-long dramatic piece. It creates this really cool layering effect that draws the eye and adds depth to what could be a pretty basic outfit. Also, layered necklaces work for super casual and super dressy occasions, so they’re a versatile option for whatever kind of white dress.
5. Attention-getting Footwear: Statement Shoes
Shoes can make or break an outfit, and accessorizing a white dress is just their perfect way to add personality and flair. I like choosing footwear that complements the occasion while making a statement. For instance, if I’m going to keep it casual for a daytime look, I might go for some espadrilles in bright colors or bold-patterned sandals. But for a night out, strappy heels in metallic shades of either gold or silver are all I’d normally settle with.
Another thing that works for me is to try and find shoes that are either complete opposites of the simplicity of the white dress or, in a way, enhance the simplicity. Animal prints, neon colors, or even elaborately designed sandals completely give the outfit another feeling and make it fun and lively. It’s all about letting your shoes take center stage and serve as a focal point.
Also Read: How to Style Maxi Dresses for Any Occasion
6. Scarves: Add Texture and Color
Scarves are often underrated when it comes to accessorizing dresses, but trust me—they can work wonders for a white dress. Whether it’s a light, airy scarf for summer or a cozy, chunky one for cooler months, scarves add both texture and color, instantly giving your outfit a more layered, intentional look.
For a summer-friendly white sundress, I love adding a patterned silk scarf tied around the neck or even as a headband. It adds a chic, vintage-inspired touch to the outfit. In cooler weather, a warm, oversized scarf in a bold color or pattern not only keeps you cozy but also makes your outfit more dynamic. The contrast between the simplicity of the white dress and the scarf’s vibrant design really makes the whole ensemble pop.
7. Hats: Top Off Your Look
Nothing says style quite like a white dress with the right type of hat. Hats add so much character to an outfit and also serve a practical purpose, especially during the hotter months of the year. I always feel that when I wear a white dress, hats are that perfect finishing touch-whether it’s in the form of a wide-brimmed sun hat, trendy fedora form, or even a playful bucket hat.
I can wear it for an ultra-relaxed, beachy look with a straw hat and some casual sandals, or if I want to dress up a bit, I wear a felt fedora in some bold color like burgundy or navy, which completely reworks the look. Hats not only add dimension to the outfit but bring in that extra something that makes your white dress anything but basic.
8. Sunglasses: Shades with Attitude
The sunglasses have grown from more than a functional accessory to a style statement. Sunglasses can easily elevate your look when paired with the right shades to complement your white dress. From oversized to cat-eye or aviator, the variety of sunglasses styles speaks volumes about how cool it is to be the girl who just doesn’t care.
I would like to contrast a white flowy dress with oversized sunglasses in tortoiseshell or black. It makes it that much more sophisticated, adding that modern feel and trendiness. Those casual days, I may fall for a round, vintage frame to make the outfit quite fun and lighthearted. In actual sense, you really just want to choose frames that look good on your face and work with your style, adding that extra glamour bit that the white dress needs.
9. Layering with Jackets or Blazers
Adding a jacket or a blazer is one of the easiest ways to raise your white dress to either a nighttime outfit or make it more formal for any event. When I want to give my white dress that little more professionalism and polish, I always turn to a tailored blazer. A well-fitted black or navy blazer atop a white dress brings about a sharp contrasting outfit, apt for meetings or evening events.
But I really love tossing on a denim or leather jacket to give that casual, laid-back vibe. One of my favorite casual, go-to looks would absolutely have to be a white sundress paired with a cropped denim jacket and sneakers. Or, for those who want to add just a little edge to their white dress, add a sleek leather jacket for that cool, unexpected vibe. Adding in outerwear is such an amazing way to add texture and variety into your outfit, making this white dress look effortlessly chic.
10. Tights or Leggings: Add Depth with Layers
And last but not least, one of my favorite styling options for a white dress during the colder months would be adding tights or leggings. Not only do they add warmth, but they bring depth and contrast to an outfit, too. A pair of black opaque tights with a white dress makes such striking visual contrast, while patterned or colored tights introduce a playful, quirky element into your look.
When I feel like going for a grittier look, I wear fishnet tights under a plain white dress and ankle boots. In order to add classier flair, I use plain sheer tights with some thin detail, heel shoes, or ballet flats. The trick lies in the balancing act of textures and colors to achieve the style one is gunning for. It’s a pretty simple way of taking that white dress through a season and changing without the outfit getting stale or boring.
Conclusion
So there you have it, 10 simple yet creative ways to pop with accessories in a white dress. Whether it be big, bold jewelry or colorful handbags with much flair; even layering up with scarves and jackets, have fun and play around with textures, colors, and styles. That’s the beauty of a white dress; it’s so versatile because you could gear it for almost any occasion if you use the right accessories. Try some of these tips on your favorite white dress the next time it comes out, and be amazed by how much more you’ll make the look shine.
