Buzz
Short dresses are like the chameleons of your wardrobe—you can elevate them for a night out or layer them with other pieces for a casual vibe. Dive into your closet and experiment with different shoes and accessories to create a chic and fun look. No matter the season, your short dress has got your back.
Steps
Add leggings or pants underneath for extra flair.
Turn your short dress into a trendy long top. Don't pack away your short dresses when the weather cools down! Instead, adapt your style to the chilly days with some creative layering. Stay cozy by pairing your dress with your favorite pants or leggings and layering it over them for a fashionable twist.
- For instance, layer a short dress over slacks for a polished office look.
- Or throw your dress over jeans for a laid-back, casual vibe.
Pair with a cozy cardigan.
Opt for a long cardigan that falls slightly below your dress. A cardigan adds both warmth and style to your outfit without overshadowing it. It can serve as a versatile alternative to a coat or jacket.
- Long cardigans complement mini dresses exceptionally well.
- To create visual interest, choose a cardigan in a contrasting color to your dress.
Slip into stylish boots.
Elevate your look with knee-high or thigh-high boots. These footwear options are perfect for cooler temperatures, providing insulation and coziness for your legs. Experiment with different lengths to find what suits your style—whether it's knee-high or thigh-high boots. Alternatively, ankle boots can add a casual and trendy touch to your dress ensemble without overpowering it.
- Consider pairing ankle boots with a chic midi dress.
- Thigh-high boots complement short dresses beautifully.
Coordinate your accessories.
Choose a handbag that complements an aspect of your dress. Consider the color scheme of your outfit—whether your dress is a solid hue or has patterns or accents. Search your closet for a handbag that aligns with a color in your dress, adding flair and cohesion to your look.
- For example, if your dress has red details on a gray backdrop, opt for a red clutch for a coordinated ensemble.
- If matching accessories are scarce, opt for a neutral-toned handbag like black for versatility.
Rock some sneakers.
Embrace a casual vibe with sneakers. When it comes to styling a short dress, there are no rules, especially with footwear like sneakers! Slip into any sneakers, tennis shoes, or Converse from your collection for a laid-back yet stylish look.
- For a clean, minimalist appearance, try white tennis shoes.
- Or add a touch of personality with your favorite pair of Converse sneakers.
Opt for open-toed shoes or sandals.
Enhance your outfit with comfortable footwear. While boots and sneakers are great, they might feel too warm in hot weather. Instead, select a breezy pair of sandals from your closet, whether they're casual or elegant. Explore your shoe collection to find the perfect match!
- Consider pairing your short dress with simple slide-on sandals for a relaxed look.
- Alternatively, elevate your outfit with lace-up sandals for a touch of sophistication.
Layer up with a turtleneck.
Stay warm by wearing a turtleneck under your dress. When the weather turns chilly, short dresses may leave your arms feeling cold. Combat the chill by slipping into a cozy turtleneck before donning your dress.
- You can opt for a matching turtleneck or experiment with patterns for a stylish twist.
Pair with a long-sleeved shirt.
Layer your dress over a long-sleeved shirt for cooler days. Prep for colder temperatures by adding a long-sleeved shirt underneath your dress. Play with neutral hues or coordinate the shirt with your dress for a cohesive look.
- For example, team a neutral-toned dress with a light-colored long-sleeved shirt.
- Alternatively, choose a versatile, neutral-toned shirt that complements any short dress.
EXPERT TIP
Susan Kim
Professional Stylist
Professional Stylist
On colder days, experiment with layering different dresses or dresses and skirts. For example, layer an A-line skirt dress over a longer lace dress. Get creative with mixing fabrics, such as pairing corduroy with lace!
Experiment with different textures.
Explore various materials when styling a short dress. Choose shoes made from a different material than your dress and complement them with a jacket or cardigan made from yet another material. This adds depth to your outfit and works well for chilly days.
- For instance, pair a cotton dress with leather boots and a wool coat.
- Try matching a quilted jacket with a faux leather dress and suede shoes.
Opt for tights.
Keep your legs warm without stealing the spotlight from your dress. While leggings and pants can be warm, they might draw attention away from your dress. Instead, choose a pair of tights—they're thinner and more discreet.
- Tights are perfect for dressing up.
- If your dress has a pattern, opt for solid-colored tights. If your dress is solid, experiment with bold patterns like polka dots.
Accessorize with a clutch.
Select a small handbag to maintain balance in your outfit. While large purses have their place, they can seem mismatched with a short dress. Swap your regular purse for a clutch to keep your outfit harmonious.
Add a necklace.
Opt for a short dress with a plunging neckline. Layer on a long necklace that hangs below your collarbone, making your jewelry the centerpiece of your ensemble. Experiment with neutral hues—they complement almost any outfit.
- Consider pairing your short dress with a lengthy crystal or diamond necklace.
- Dresses with square necklines pair beautifully with long necklaces.
Accessorize with a belt.
Elevate your dress with a stylish belt. Cinch the belt around your waistline to add definition to your outfit and imbue it with flair. Opt for neutral tones like black, brown, or tan for a versatile look!
Layer on bike shorts.
Stay discreet by wearing bike shorts beneath your dress. Avoid wardrobe malfunctions with these comfortable, flexible shorts that provide coverage all day long. While hidden under your dress, they offer peace of mind against accidental exposure.
Helpful Advice
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A lengthy necklace can complement your dress beautifully, especially if it boasts a deep neckline.
