A black dress never goes out of style. It is a staple piece that everyone should possess. Your capsule wardrobe should consist of a black dress that can be styled in numerous ways without investing much. So, tune into this article for 6 cool tips on how to style a black dress!
1. Black Dresses: A Wardrobe Staple
A black dress is a timeless piece of clothing that can be styled in umpteen ways. From classy to chic, formal to informal, this versatile clothing item moulds itself according to the occasion.
Dresses can be classified into midi dresses, mini dresses, bodycon dresses, T-shirt dresses and so on. No matter what the dress type is, a black dress never fails to exude class and boldness.
2. 6 Cool Tips on How To Style a Black Dress
2.1 Styling a Little Black Dress (LBD)
Little black Dress, or LBD as fashionistas put it, traces its origin to the 1920s. The legacy of this little black dress has continued since the 1900s and found its place on silver screens as well as in popular culture.
So the following are some tips on styling a little black dress.
2.1.1 In Princess Diana Style
The iconic black dress worn by Princess Diana often termed as “Revenge Dress” is a fashion moment. You can also recreate the look in the same way.
Accessorize your little black dress with a statement pearl necklace to get a luxurious, classy look. A three-layered pearl choker, as styled by Princess Diana, is also a great option when going to a cocktail party.
Moreover, pearls are classic and timeless, just like a black dress. They will surely enhance your look into a more elegant and sophisticated one. Another cue to take from Princess Diana’s Revenge Dress is tights. Pair your little black dress with tights for an extra chic effect.
Finally, complete your look with elegant black pumps. Thank us later for all the compliments you get!
2.1.2 How to Style a Black Dress For Warmer Weather
In summer and spring, go for more light fabrics like cotton and linen. A flowy mini-dress is ideal for summer. Add a pop of colour with a bright scarf or accessorize with a hat. Opt for colorful accessories to get that spring fashion aesthetic right.

You can also play around with fabrics like laces, chiffon and satin. In addition, light fabrics like cotton, georgette and crepes would be ideal for summer. Complete the look with sunglasses, and also make sure to carry sunscreen.
2.1.3 Styling a Little Black Dress For a Colder Weather
You may not choose to wear a short dress in winter, but with a few styling tips, you will reconsider your decision. For winters, opt for fleece-lined tights or thermal tights underneath the dress. Go with knee-high boots with socks to keep you warm and cozy.
Add on a trench coat for extra warmth.
You can ditch a jacket or coat for a knitted scarf if the weather is not so cold. Wrap it around your neck or wear it as a shawl draped around your shoulders. A winter scarf can add a pop of color to your monochromatic look.
2.2 Styling a Black T-shirt Dress
A go-to option for you girlies who want to dress casually! A T-shirt dress is a great option for days when you are running errands but also desire to look effortlessly stylish.
2.2.1 Styling a Black T-Shirt Dress With a Denim Jacket
Like Black dresses, denim jackets are just another clothing piece that is both versatile and timeless. Just throw a denim jacket with your black dress for a perfect casual outfit.
Similarly, an oversized t-shirt dress can be balanced with a well-fitted denim jacket. Complete the outfit with a pair of white sneakers, and you are good to go. You can also opt for black canvas shoes for a retro feel.
2.3. Styling a Black Midi Dress

Midi Dresses are modest and smart at the same time. A midi dress can be styled in many fashionable ways in every season. Further, it can be molded according to the event and can easily transition from ultra-glam to ultra-comfy. Following are some styling tips on a black midi dress-
2.3.1 Accessorize With a Belt
A metal chain belt with a gold-tone is perfect for an evening party. You can also add a black leather belt to elevate the outfit. A leather belt gives a formal look to the outfit and is ideal for formal occasions.
Another great option is to accessorize a black dress with a corset belt. Corset belts look great with T-shirt-style dresses. Add statement earrings in gold tone to put together the entire look. Pair with tall boots to get the perfect street-style look.
2.3.2 Pair Black Dress With a Bomber Jacket
Another staple that most of us own in our closet is a bomber jacket. Bomber jackets are perfect to add an element of punk to your outfit. Style a bomber jacket with a midi dress for an off-duty look.
Opt for a crop bomber jacket when you want your waist to look snatched. Further, wear an embroidered colorful bomber jacket for a Boho look. No matter what type of bomber jacket you opt for, they always add an element of street style to your outfit.
2.4 How to Style a Black Dress in a Formal Manner

For days when you feel like a boss lady or need to dress for formal occasions, style your black dress accordingly. A bodycon black dress styled with a structured blazer with black heels makes up for a perfect formal outfit.
Statement earrings with a gold-tone watch will amplify your look further. Add a clutch to complete the outfit. A conservative neckline works best in formal events. A midi-length dress would be ideal for a formal dress code.
Gold accessories will ease the task for you. In fact, a statement piece will add a touch of sophistication to your entire look.
2.5 Styling a Black Slip Dress

A satin slip dress is in vogue these days. They are ultra-feminine and are a perfect option for a date night. But a slip dress can also be styled in some ways according to your mood and the weather, of course! Following are some tips to style a black slip dress-
2.5.1 A Leather Jacket With a Black Satin Slip Dress
Hop on to the 1980s Grunge fashion vibe with a black satin slip dress paired with a black leather jacket. Add oval sunglasses and combat boots to the pull-up that grunge aesthetic effortlessly.
Finally, a black crossbody bag would be perfect to complement your all-black outfit. This will also make up for a great concert outfit.
2.5.2 Layering a Black Slip Dress for Winter
Styling a black dress is incomplete without adding some layers. Layering is not only a major fashion trend but also a life hack. You can manage to look stylish even in cold weather amidst layers of clothing.
Add an oversized blazer to your slip dress and turn your outfit professional. So now you don’t have to worry about the dress code at the workplace. You can also add a cashmere sweater or a jumper over your dress for extra warmth in winter. With the right proportions, the outfit will slay.
2.6 How to Style a Black Dress in a Vintage Manner
Styling a black dress without taking reference from Audrey Hepburn’s Breakfast at Tiffany dress is incomplete.
For a more elegant look add black satin gloves to your dress. Mesh gloves are also a stylish alternative. Glam it up with a pearl necklace and a sleek bun. This outfit would indeed be perfect for a prom, wedding party or cocktail party.
3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is black dress meant for formal events only?
No, Black dresses are appropriate for all kinds of events. It depends on how you style and accessorize them.
2. What is an LBD?
An LBD is a fashion slang for a little black dress.
3. Can a black dress be paired with sneakers?
Sneakers are a popular choice to pair with a black dress. A pair of white chunky sneakers is a perfect match for a black dress.
4. How do you look stylish in a simple black dress?
To glam up your dress, play around with statement pieces. For example, a statement necklace, statement earrings or chunky boots can make a significant difference.
5. Why is a black dress so popular?
Due to the influence of Hollywood and the revival by Coco Chanel, black dress has become a popular style statement. Moreover, it is also loved because of its versatility and elegance.
Final Note
In the words of Coco Chanel, “A black so deep, so noble that once seen, it stays in the memory forever.”
Black Dress symbolizes boldness, sophistication and elegance. With the right styling ideas, one can slay any occasion with a black dress. There are no fixed and definite rules to style a black dress. Just style the dress as you like it according to your style. The ultimate tip, which is surely underrated, is confidence!
Last Updated on January 27, 2024 by Apeksha Soni