How to Accessorize a Black Maxi Dress

By Muffy Marracco , last updated July 26, 2011

Are you looking for tips on how to accessorize a black maxi dress? The little black dress has been replaced by the long black dress as the go-to summer fashion choice. Simple black can be sophisticated or casual, and you can dress it up or down with any number of accessories. The black maxi dress is the perfect canvas on which to express your personal style.

Source:eHow

First, you want to start with the footwear. Pair your black maxi dress with a simple strappy sandal. You are going to be wearing a whole lot of dress – do not overwhelm the look with a whole lot of shoe, too. Keep it spare and simple. Sandals that are inspired by the ancient gladiator look are especially appropriate, as they’ll complement the flowing toga look of the maxi dress. Don’t forget to get a pedicure with a brightly colored nail polish for those toes that will just peek out from beneath your hem.

The simplicity of the black maxi dress is also a great way to wear dramatic jewelry. Pull your long hair up into a delicate chignon with a few loose tendrils of hair and pop on a pair of large hoop earrings. Or pull out that big chunky necklace. It will be perfectly displayed against the backdrop of plain black fabric. A large cuff bracelet or arm band help sell the image of the Grecian goddess. Or wear a set of bangle bracelets. The key here is that the plain long dress is the perfect pairing for large and showy jewelry that would be overkill with another outfit.

You can always pair the black maxi dress with a scarf, which you can wrap around your shoulders later should the summer evening get chilly. Look for ones in bright colors to contrast with the black fabric of your dress. You can rock solid colors or daring patterns.

If you’re wearing your black maxi dress out on a sunny day, try pairing it with a hat of some kind. It will shield your face from the harmful rays of the sun and will give you a carefree resort look. Look for large straw hats with wide brims and decorative hat bands. Plain black clothes are the perfect backdrop for any number of colors, so do not feel like you have to pick only a black hat. Try a large lavender straw hat paired with silver jewelry.

The maxi dress is flattering to most figures. If you have a body that can handle it, then try cinching in the dress at your waist with a belt. Contrast the black fabric with a brightly colored belt, like red, purple or orange. Look for a belt that is wide and visible, not one that will disappear against the dress. This technique breaks up the monotony of a long black dress, especially on taller women.

The only other important tip to keep in mind is not to try all of these different fashions at once. You don’t want to look like a walking display rack from the accessories department.

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