How to Wear One Black Dress 6 Different Ways (No One Will Know!)

Must-see styling inspiration for that LBD in your closet.

what to wear over an LBD

It’s all in the accessories. Image via iStock/lolostock.

Everyone’s got that one dress in the closet – the go-to, the fail-safe, the blank canvas. For most, it’s a little black dress. But wearing the same thing can get boring, and lead to the age-old style rut. Luckily, there are tons of trendy, flirty, and super-cute ways to style an LBD for the gods this spring and summer — we’re talking seashell purses, gypsy earrings, and embellished jackets that would make Kanye jealous. Here’s how to wear one black dress six completely different ways, so that your inner alter-egos get a chance to come out and play. Trust us, no one will know you wore the same dress to dinner last weekend.

BOHO BABE

Images via Dylanlex, Intermix, and Sam Edelman.

Channel your inner bohemian spirit with a bright tasseled handbag (Christophe Sauvat, $245) and some chunky earrings worthy of a gypsy queen (Dylanlex, $380). Slip into a pair of clogs (Sam Edelman, $95), perfect for hitting the streets on your next shopping extravaganza or dancing the night away. Top off your look with a middle part, slicked back into a low bun, a swipe of mascara and a bright red matte lip.

TRENDSETTER

Images via Sam Edelman, Lastcall, Intermix and Net-a-Porter.

Want to fool strangers on the street into thinking you’re an Instagram-famous street style star? They’ll believe you in this getup — nothing says trendy chick in-the-know quite like an off-the-shoulder top (Ellery, $700) and bucket bag (Betsey Johnson, $56) combo. Pair with some simple, neutral heels (Sam Edelman, $130) to keep things looking relaxed.

KILLER SHOES

Images via Matches Fashion, Asos, Intermix, and H&M.

Do you have a ballin pair of shoes (Alexander McQueen, $1460) that you can make the focal point of your LBD ensemble? Let those puppies shine, layering on a simple, light jacket (H&M, $49.99) for when it gets chilly at night. Throw a funky structured handbag (Asos, $36) in the mix to up the fun factor.

VACATION READY

Images via Matches Fashion, Intermix, Net-a-Porter, and Zara.

You don’t need to be jetting off on vacation to look like you’re headed for the French Riviera. Throw on some low-heeled leather mules (Zara, $119), and pair with some festive island-vibing accessories. Trust me, you’ll have a great time in this outfit wherever you go. I mean, is it even possible to look at that pom-pom-covered bag (Muzungu Sisters, $370) and not smile? I didn’t think so. Rock a sleek deep side-part and tuck your hair behind the ears to show off those fiesta earrings (Katerina Makriyianni, $175).

If your signature style leans less towards ‘delicate flower’ and more towards ‘power player,’ this look is totally for you. Grab a badass bomber (French Connection, $398), preferably embellished in some cool way, and lace up some squeaky-clean white sneakers (Adidas, $80) on your feet. You’ll be comfy as hell and look good doing it.

URBAN COWGIRL

Images via Geisha House, Intermix, Valentino and Nasty Gal.

What happens when you mix a Chrissy Teigen-inspired duster (Knot Sisters, $129) with some cowgirl accents? Pure magic. As if that bag (Valentino, $4445) isn’t giving me enough life with those turquoise accents, the black booties (Nasty Gal, $220) add the perfect touch of western influence to turn you into a modern-day, taxi-hailing urban cowgirl. Yeehaw!

If you can’t tell by now, it’s all about the details. Your LBD is your blank canvas, so layer away and let the magic happen — your friends will be none the wiser. Happy accessorizing!