A gorgeous blue dress is just the beginning. The accessories you choose can elevate your look from lovely to unforgettable, transforming a simple outfit into a perfectly styled ensemble. Whether you're dressing for a casual brunch or a formal gala, understanding how to accessorise your blue dress is an essential styling skill.
This guide covers every aspect of accessorising, from jewellery metal choices to shoe colour options, helping you create cohesive, intentional looks for any occasion.
Choosing the Right Jewellery Metal
The metal of your jewellery can either harmonise beautifully with your blue dress or create subtle discord. Understanding which metals work with different blue shades ensures your accessories enhance rather than distract.
Gold and Rose Gold
Gold and rose gold add warmth and richness to blue dresses. These metals work particularly well with:
- Navy Blue: Gold against navy creates a classic, luxurious combination reminiscent of nautical elegance
- Royal Blue: The warmth of gold balances royal blue's intensity beautifully
- Teal: Rose gold especially complements teal's blue-green blend
- Warm-toned blues: Any blue with green undertones pairs naturally with gold
Silver and White Gold
Silver and white gold create a cooler, more modern aesthetic. They're ideal for:
- Sky Blue: Silver enhances the fresh, crisp quality of light blues
- Powder Blue: Creates an ethereal, romantic combination
- Cobalt: Silver's coolness complements cobalt's pure blue tone
- Cool-toned blues: Any blue with grey or purple undertones
The Mix Metal Rule
While matching metals creates a cohesive look, intentionally mixing metals is increasingly fashionable. If you choose to mix, do so deliberately, wearing multiple mixed-metal pieces rather than one mismatched item.
Statement vs. Subtle: Finding the Balance
The key to successful accessorising is balance. A heavily embellished dress calls for subtle jewellery, while a simple dress can handle bold statement pieces.
When to Go Bold
- Simple, solid-coloured dresses with minimal detailing
- Clean necklines that showcase statement necklaces
- Sleek silhouettes that won't compete with large earrings
- Occasions where you want to make an impact
When to Keep It Simple
- Dresses with embellishments, beading, or intricate details
- Bold prints or patterns
- Interesting structural elements or unique silhouettes
- Professional settings where subtlety is preferred
Key Takeaway
Ask yourself: "What do I want people to notice first?" If it's the dress, keep accessories subtle. If you want accessories to be a focal point, choose a simpler dress.
Shoe Selection by Shade
Shoes can make or break an outfit. The right pair completes your look, while the wrong choice can feel disjointed. Here's how to choose shoes for different blue shades.
Navy Blue Dress
- Nude/Tan: Creates leg-lengthening illusion; universally flattering
- Gold: Adds glamour for evening events
- Burgundy/Wine: Creates sophisticated contrast
- Black: Classic and foolproof
- Metallic Silver: Modern and eye-catching
Royal Blue Dress
- Silver: Complements cool undertones beautifully
- Nude: Keeps focus on the vibrant dress
- Black: Grounds the bright colour
- Hot Pink: Bold, fashion-forward choice
Light Blue Dress
- White: Fresh, summery combination
- Nude/Blush: Soft and romantic
- Silver: Elegant for evening
- Navy: Provides grounding contrast
Teal Dress
- Gold: Absolutely stunning combination
- Bronze: Creates warm, autumnal feel
- Coral: Complementary colour pairing
- Nude: Lets the teal take centre stage
Pro Tip
When in doubt, nude shoes that match your skin tone are almost always a safe and flattering choice. They elongate the leg and never clash with any blue shade.
Handbag Coordination
Your bag doesn't need to match your shoes, but the overall look should feel coordinated. Consider these approaches:
Matching the Shoes
Matching your bag to your shoes creates a polished, traditional look. This approach works well for formal events and classic styling. It's a safe choice when you want to look put-together without too much thought.
Complementary Colours
Choosing a bag in a complementary or accent colour adds visual interest. For blue dresses, consider:
- Coral or Orange: Complementary colour creates energy
- Yellow or Mustard: Warm contrast with navy or teal
- Pink or Blush: Soft, feminine with light blues
Neutral Bags
Black, nude, white, or tan bags work with virtually any blue dress and create a clean, modern aesthetic. Neutral bags are investment pieces that maximise versatility.
Considering the Occasion
Your accessory choices should reflect the formality and nature of the event. Here are guidelines for different occasions:
Formal Events (Galas, Black Tie)
- Opt for fine jewellery or high-quality costume pieces
- Choose elegant heels (stilettos or strappy sandals)
- Select a small clutch or minaudière
- Consider hair accessories like decorative pins
Professional Settings
- Keep jewellery minimal and non-distracting
- Choose closed-toe shoes with modest heels
- Opt for structured bags that look professional
- Avoid anything overly trendy or statement-making
Casual Outings
- Have fun with colourful, playful pieces
- Sandals, espadrilles, or comfortable flats work well
- Crossbody bags or totes for practicality
- Layer dainty jewellery for interest
Finishing Touches: Belts, Scarves, and More
Beyond the basics, additional accessories can refine and personalise your look.
Belts
A belt can transform a dress's silhouette, defining your waist and adding visual interest. For blue dresses:
- Tan or cognac leather belts create classic contrast with navy
- Metallic belts (gold, silver) add glamour
- Matching blue belts create a streamlined look
- Statement belts with interesting buckles become focal points
Scarves and Wraps
Scarves add colour, warmth, and styling versatility. Consider:
- Silk scarves in complementary colours tied at the neck or in hair
- Pashminas or shawls for cool evenings
- Printed scarves that incorporate your dress's blue shade
Hair Accessories
Hair accessories are having a fashion moment. From sleek barrettes to decorative pins, they can elevate your look significantly. For formal occasions, crystal or pearl accessories add elegance. For casual settings, fabric headbands or simple clips work well.
Final Styling Check
Before leaving the house, do a final mirror check. Ask yourself: Does everything feel cohesive? Is there one focal point, or are too many things competing for attention? Do my accessories suit the occasion? Make adjustments as needed.
Building an Accessory Wardrobe
You don't need countless accessories to style your blue dresses beautifully. Focus on versatile investment pieces:
- Nude heels: Work with every blue shade and occasion
- Pearl earrings: Classic, appropriate for most settings
- Simple gold and silver necklaces: Layer or wear alone
- Black clutch: Formal occasions covered
- Neutral structured tote: Professional settings sorted
With these foundational pieces and the knowledge of how to combine them, you'll be equipped to style any blue dress for any occasion. Accessories are where you can express personality and creativity, so have fun experimenting with different combinations until you find your signature style.