10 Accessories That Will Take Your Dress From Basic to Bold

Refresh the closet staple with a little help from these trends.

A nice dress is the perfect cure-all for when you supposedly have nothing to wear. The one-and-done garment makes it all too easy to look polished with the flick of a wrist. Although we all love convenience, taking the time to add a few carefully curated accessories can instantly elevate a basic dress into a Pinterest-worthy fit.

Whether it’s your go-to lounge maxi or a frothy tulle frock, what makes dresses so great is their versatility as accessories allow you to take a dress from day to night effortlessly. Trust us when we say these tricks are not hard to master. A simple slip gives you the blueprint you need to build the perfect outfit, as you can draw inspiration from your dress to select items to contrast or complement it. “Texas Hold ‘Em”-inspired cowboy boots add a much-needed edge to a dainty shift, while a sleek belt is an ideal addition to a form-fitting midi dress.

Let’s also not forget that spring is a mere two weeks away, making dresses the perfect transition item to take you from rainy mornings to balmy afternoons and windy evenings. Trendy red tights and cardigans add a touch of excitement while keeping you warm. Elsewhere, spacious (and ironic) tote bags and corporate-core eyeglasses seamlessly marry function and aesthetics. To help you make the most out of your dresses, we’ve put together ten accessories that’ll take them to the next level. Better yet – chances are you probably already have them in your closet.

It’s time to dress up your dresses. 

Red Tights

Not only are red tights a girl-approved trend, but the accessory adds an unexpected pop of color and gives you an excuse to wear micro-mini hemlines in breezy weather. Take a cue from starlet Anya Taylor Joy and opt for a monochromatic approach for a truly heart-throbbing look. If you’re hoping to be more subtle, pairing a classic little black dress with red tights will evoke the 2014 twee style.

Cowboy Boots

Thanks to Beyoncé, western wear is having yet another renaissance, with country bumpkins and city slickers alike putting their own spin on the trend. Cowboy boots are a bonafide way to add a bit of fun to your favorite frock. Go for a pair with contrast stitching for extra visual interest.

Beautiful Bows

Dresses and bows go hand in hand, as both items are coquette staples. The trend has popped up repeatedly on the runways, as it's the perfect way to add major charm to any ensemble. Don't be scared to go as big or as small as your heart desires with these pretty knots.

Funky Frames

In case you haven’t heard, having four eyes is cool. Prescription glasses are all the rage as corporate core and office sirens are taking over TikTok and Instagram. For those of us who have been vision-impaired long before social media (it was probably sitting so close to the TV that did it), feel free to break out your old-school frames for a retro-inspired look.

Bold Belts

Belts are not just for holding up your pants; they are pretty yet pragmatic accessories that can be easily used to add dimension and a center of gravity to any dress. We’re taking style notes from actor Lili Reinhart who masterfully accentuates her curves with a thick belt.

Emotional Support Bag

Bag ladies rejoice as the days of itty-bitty micro purses are gone. Uber-spacious tote and bucket bags are back in style, thanks to the Y2K revival, declaring it a fashion statement to carry your entire life with you. You never know when you might need lip balm, a book or a snack — or a beginner’s knitting kit.

Cute Cardigans

Cardigans are the ultimate dress accessory, as they can transform your outfit with ease. They immediately add texture and color, but when completely buttoned up, a cardigan and dress becomes a chic sweater and skirt set. Trust us, as the weather becomes less predictable, you'll want one of these on hand at all times.

A Playful Hat

Ever since Pamela Anderson donned her infamous pink (faux) furry hat on the red carpet, fanciful headgear has become a go-to accessory for bold babes. Pair a vivacious hat with a demure dress to evoke an air of playfulness. Whatever style you choose, be sure to have fun with it.

Oversized Blazer

Nothing says spring like an oversized blazer and dress combo. The duo is iconic because the otherwise austere accessory infuses romantic slips and body-hugging dresses with a tone of gravitas. It’s giving "she’s standing on business."

Eye-catching Earrings

If you’re rocking a dress with an intriguing neckline, a pair of dazzling earrings will undoubtedly complement the silhouette. Don't be afraid to play around with scale and differing materials when it comes to your bijoux. When it doubt go bigger!

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