6 Tips on How to Accessorize Your Prom Dress

August 2, 2024

Pairing a prom dress with the right accessories can elevate your look from simply beautiful to gorgeously breathtaking. Moreover, accessories can be paired with most styles such as gold and silver jewelry for the classic elegance or floral appliques for the boho chic look.

Prom night is one of the most memorable events in a young person’s life, and choosing the perfect dress is only one part of it. And to help you to accessorize correctly, refer to this guide for insights on how to select the perfect accessories that complements your prom dress.

1. Start with the Prom Dress Style

Before choosing your accessories, you need to first consider the style, color, and neckline of your prom dress. Since the dress will be the focal point of your entire outfit, it’s good to note that accessories should be considered as an enhancement and it should not overpower the dress. To help you understand better, here are some examples on the type of accessories to choose for different dress styles:

Classic Ball Gowns: Keep accessories elegant and understated. Think pearls, delicate necklaces, and simple stud earrings.
Modern and Sleek Look: Add bold, statement pieces like chunky bracelets or statement earrings to make a sleek dress pop.
Boho and Flowing Look: Opt for natural, earthy accessories like flower crowns, layered necklaces, and bangles.

2. Jewelry

When it comes to accessorizing for Prom, jewelry is usually the first thing that comes to mind, and rightfully so since it is a key component in accessorizing your prom dress. The type of jewelry you choose can highlight your dress’s best features and add a touch of sparkle and glam to your prom look.

Necklaces: The neckline of your dress should dictate your necklace choice. For strapless or sweetheart necklines, a choker or short necklace works well. V-neck dresses pair beautifully with pendant necklaces. If your dress has a high neckline, consider skipping the necklace and focus on other jewelry accessories.
Earrings: If your dress is intricate or heavily embellished, opt for simple earrings like studs or small hoops. For simpler dresses, statement earrings can add a touch of drama and sophistication.
Bracelets and Rings: Balance is key when it comes to wristwear and rings. If you’re wearing a bold necklace or earrings, keep bracelets and rings minimal. Skip the bracelet for dresses with long sleeves or elaborate cuffs since there are already details.

3. Shoes

Your choice of footwear should be both stylish and comfortable, as you’ll likely be wearing them for hours and with the likelihood of hitting the dancefloor. Typically, heels and flats are the popular choice while sneakers can be an unconventional choice if you are aiming for a modern look.

In terms of style, consider the following:

Heels: Classic pumps or strappy sandals are versatile choices that work well with most dress styles. Go for it if you’re comfortable in high heels. Moreover, heels can add height and elongate your silhouette.
Flats: If you’re not a fan of heels, there are plenty of chic flat options available. Look for embellished or metallic flats for a more glamorous look.
Color: For colors, neutral tones like nude, black, or metallic are safer bets, but don’t be afraid to match your shoes with your dress color or choose a contrasting color to add a pop of color.

4. Bags

Consider carrying a small clutch or evening bag because they are both practical and stylish, providing a place to store essentials like your phone, makeup, and ID. The choice of your bag should always compliment your dress:

Embellished Dresses: Opt for a simple, understated clutch that doesn’t compete with the details of your prom dress.
Simple Dresses: A sparkly or patterned clutch can add more volume to your prom look.

5. Hair Accessories

Hair accessories are usually optional but if you plan to use it, they can add a whimsical or elegant touch to your prom look. Popular options include:

Hairpins and Clips: These can add subtle sparkle to updos or loose waves, while keeping your hairstyle in check.
Headbands: A jeweled or floral headband is usually for a boho or vintage-inspired look.
Flower Crowns: Perfect for a romantic or garden-themed prom, especially with boho dresses.

6. Finishing Touches

To end off the look, always wear a perfume as fragrance adds a ting of romance to your outfit. Consider additional accessories like a scarf or shawl if the venue or theme requires it.

Wrap or Shawl: If your prom is held in a cooler climate, a stylish wrap or shawl can keep you warm without sacrificing style.
Perfume: A subtle fragrance can add an extra layer of allure to your overall presence.

Final Tips on Accessorizing Your Prom Dress

Stay True to Your Style: While it’s great to experiment with trends, make sure your accessories reflect your personal style and also complements your prom dress. You want to feel comfortable, confident and beautiful.
Balance: The key to a well-accessorized look is balance. Don’t overdo it; sometimes less is more.
Practice Makes Perfect: Always try on all your accessories with your dress ahead of time to ensure everything looks cohesive and feels comfortable.

Accessorizing your prom dress is all about enhancing your natural beauty and expressing your unique style. With the right accessories, you’ll not only look stunning but also feel confident and ready to make unforgettable memories with your friends. Happy prom and enjoy the night away!