Let's be real-there's nothing more versatile to have in your wardrobe than a classic black dress. It's your go-to, your secret weapon, and the ultimate blank canvas that can be styled in endless ways.
Whether you're gearing up for a school formal, attending a wedding, or prepping for a black-tie event, knowing how to dress up a black dress is a major game-changer. The right accessories, makeup, shoes, and hairstyle can instantly take your look from simple to slay.
So, let's explore how to dress up a simple black dress for a formal event and make sure you're ready to turn heads!
The School Formal: All About Glam
School formal is THE moment to go big or go home when it comes to your look. If you've been wondering how to dress up a simple black dress for a formal event, we've got you covered. Your black school formal dress is the perfect base to add all the glitz and glam for your special night.
Statement Accessories that Pop
Accessories are your ticket to taking that black dress to the next level. For school formals, go for bold, statement pieces that really stand out. Think chunky hoops, a dazzling rhinestone bracelet, or a charm necklace that screams you. Oh, and don't forget a cute bag to tie it all together.
Go Big on Glam Makeup
Now, for the makeup. This is where you get to have fun! A red or berry lip paired with a dramatic smoky eye? Yes, please! If you're more into soft glam, some bronze eyeshadow, dewy highlighter and a glossy nude lip will have you glowing all night. If you're feeling bold and have face gems handy, you could even go Euphoria style with a glittery AF eye look that will even make the disco ball jealous. Either way, your makeup should complement your dress while keeping the focus on your accessories.
High Heels, Higher Confidence
It's time to ditch the school shoes and bring out the heels! A pair of strappy stilettos or kitten heels will instantly elevate your look. Choose a pair that adds some sparkle or dimensions to your black dress-think metallic, glitter, buckles or bows for the coquette girlies. For your hair, you can go for sleek waves or rock a high ponytail to show off your bling. Either way, you'll be owning the dance floor with your besties!
How to Dress Up a Black Dress For a Wedding
Heading to a wedding and not sure how to dress up a black dress for a wedding? Don't stress, we've got your back. The key here is looking effortlessly chic without stealing the bride's spotlight (because, let's face it, it's her day). Oh, and don't forget to check with the bride that black dresses are allowed - different weddings have different dress codes.
Refined, Elegant Jewellery
For a wedding, you want to keep it classy. If your black dress has a deep V-neck, pair it with a delicate pendant necklace or layered gold chains. For high necklines, go for some beautiful drop earrings to add a touch of sophistication. Just make sure your jewellery is balanced - keep it elegant but eye-catching.
The Perfect Clutch & Heels
No wedding outfit is complete without an itty bitty handbag - you want to be hands-free when the champagne is flowing and the dance floor is pumping! A classic black shoulder bag is a fail-safe option, but you could also spice things up with a rhinestone or metallic number. As for heels, you can never go wrong with kitten heels or chunky mules. Just make sure they're comfy enough to dance the night away (because we all know the real party happens after the speeches).
Romantic Makeup for the Wedding Glow
When it comes to makeup, wedding vibes are all about soft, romantic beauty. Stick to neutral tones like pink or bronze for your eyeshadow, and maybe add a little shimmer on the inner corners of your eyes. Go for a fresh, dewy look with highlighter on the high points of your face, paired with a soft blush. A classic nude or soft pink lip will complete your look.
Black-Tie Event: Full-On Glam
Now let's talk black-tie events - the time to pull out all the stops. Whether it's a charity gala, formal work event, or a bougie party, you want your black dress to scream sophistication. Here's how to dress up a black dress for the most formal of occasions.
Luxe Fabrics & Tailoring
For black-tie events, the fabric and fit of your dress are everything. Opt for materials like satin, silk, or sequins to add an extra bougie feel to your look. Plus, these materials make you look like a glowing goddess in flash photos! And don't forget, tailoring is key here - your dress should hug you in all the right places without being too tight. Think of structured silhouettes like a sleek mermaid cut or an elegant A-line gown for that wow factor.
Glamorous Jewellery & Accessories
Luxurious accessories are essential for a black-tie event. A statement necklace dripping in jewels or a pair of chandelier earrings will bring major red-carpet vibes to your outfit. Balance the look with a subtle bracelet or a ring. A shiny clutch or shoulder bag with metallic hardware is the perfect companion for your black formal dress.
Dramatic Makeup & Hair
It's time to go all-out with your beauty look. Smokey eyes paired with a nude lip give off sultry vibes, while a bold red lipstick and sleek eyeliner combo is always a power move. For your hair, nothing beats a polished updo for black-tie occasions. A sleek bun or classic Hollywood waves will give you that red carpet moment.
How to Dress Up a Black Dress with Accessories
Accessories are a game-changer when it comes to transforming a simple black dress into a killer outfit. From statement necklaces to strappy heels, the right accessory choices will have you serving looks at any event.
Match Accessories to Your Dress Neckline
Your dress neckline is a great guide for choosing accessories. A plunging neckline pairs perfectly with a statement pendant necklace, while a high neckline calls for dramatic earrings. If your dress is strapless, try layering dainty necklaces or add a pop of colour with a chunky gemstone choker. Always keep balance in mind-if you're going big with statement earrings, tone down the rest of your jewellery to avoid overdoing it.
Go Bold, But Keep It Balanced
When accessorising, pick one statement piece and let it shine. If you're rocking a thick necklace, go subtle with your earrings and bracelet. If your shoes are the star of the show (think glitter, bright colours, or embellishments), opt for a simpler bag and toned-down jewellery.
Hair That Completes Your Look
Let's talk hair because it's the ultimate cherry on top of your black dress moment. Whether you're going for sleek and polished or cute and effortless, your hair should totally match your vibe and bring the whole look together.
Voluminous Ponytail
If you want to add a modern twist to your black dress, a voluminous ponytail is a fun option. It's clean and stylish and lets your makeup and jewellery stand out.
Loose Waves
Loose, soft waves are perfect for wedding guest attire or school formal. They give off an effortless, romantic vibe and pair beautifully with minimalist accessories like a sparkly clip.
Sleek Updos
For ultra-formal events like black-tie galas, nothing beats a sleek updo. A classic chignon adds instant sophistication, showing off your neckline and jewellery. It's timeless, classy, and lets your black dress be the star.
Find the Black Dress of Your Dreams at Runaway the Label
Now that you know how to dress up a black dress, it's time to shop! From laid-back casual days to red-carpet-ready nights, Runaway the Label serves up dresses for every event on your calendar. Whether you need something casual for brunch with the girls or a show-stopping look for a formal event, we've got it all. Effortlessly stylish, affordable, and always on-point, you'll find the perfect black dress for just about anything.
Snag your dream black dress at Runaway now and get ready for all those compliments!