Spike Up Your Basic Black Dress with Jewels & Color

Sometimes it takes stripping away all signs of color to make one really appreciate its importance and significance. Take, for instance, one of my favorite LBDs paired with dark shades — without a dose of color in the look I think I might be able to pass for nominally chic, but some glitz across the neckline and some suede coral stunners on my feet elevate the look to a true fashions statement. Trends will come and go, but mixing in the right amount, and the perfect complimentary shades will always be in style. Start out simple with just 1-2 color infusions with a black dress, and you’ll see what a different it makes.

My Sofft Morocco Coral Suede Wedges are also available in blue or champagne shades, and of course, black, if you decide to keep your footwear neutral but dare to present color elsewhere in your look. Word to the wise: if you are going to do an all-over monochrome look or solid color in a top, know which colors look best on you. For me, right next to my face, the most complimentary shades are it’s coral/red/pink and then hues of blue and turquoise. Nothing in the yellow or lime green, or orange family, please!

Outfit Credits:

Avon Black Dress (Courtesy of Avon)

J.Crew Necklace (No longer available, Courtesy of J.Crew)

Sofft Morocco Coral Suede Wedges (Courtesy of Sofft)

MiMi Stud Earrings and Turquoise Cuff Bracelet (Courtesy of MiMi by Sorrelli)

Pamela Love Bronze & Silver Shelley Cuff (Courtesy of Barneys New York Outlet/Woodbury Common Premium Outlets)

Kenneth Cole White Ceramic Watch (Courtesy of Kenneth Cole)

DVF Cat Eye Frames (Courtesy of DVF)

-Julia DiNardo