Dressing up the little black dress

Start by thinking of one item that will elevate the look to a whole other level.

click to enlarge BLACK ON PINK: Artisan cuff from Tampa Artist Emporium; hot pink flower cocktail ring (on shoe) from the author’s jewelry box; Rampage shoe; Pineda Covalin mariposa scarf. - Leslie Joy Ickowitz
Leslie Joy Ickowitz
BLACK ON PINK: Artisan cuff from Tampa Artist Emporium; hot pink flower cocktail ring (on shoe) from the author’s jewelry box; Rampage shoe; Pineda Covalin mariposa scarf.

Which type are you? Are you all about the thrill of the hunt? Searching high and low for the elusive, perfect little black dress? Or does finding one trigger the real fun?

Unless that little black dress is decorated with studs or seams or leather or zippers in all the right places, it is a blank canvas upon which to unleash your inner artist and play dress-up. It is an opportunity to express individuality and to make a statement. Getting the chance to put your own spin on the little black dress has got to be the best thing about having one.

So how do you style the little black dress? Start by thinking of one item that will elevate the look to a whole other level. Something unexpected, like a vivid, printed scarf or patterned tights, perhaps. Then build around it. Can’t go wrong with a cocktail ring and clutch.

When it comes to accessorizing, though, be mindful of the delicate balance between just right and overdone. Dressing up is not akin to cluttering up. If something glares back at you from the mirror, that’s a signal to edit. Three or four items that don’t compete for attention should play nicely together.

Here’s a pairing of perspectives to dress up the little black dress. Psssst: I wore hot pink opaque tights, the mesh heels, cuff and cocktail ring to a NY wedding. Whether you rock pops of color or a classic string of pearls, have fun with style and give that dress a great night out on the town …