The right accessories can transform a simple summer dress into a polished, intentional outfit. Whether you're elevating a casual cotton dress for dinner or adding the finishing touches to a special occasion look, understanding how to accessorise effectively is a valuable styling skill. This guide covers everything from jewellery to footwear, helping you make the most of your summer dress collection.
The Foundation: Understanding Balance
The golden rule of accessorising is balance. Your accessories should complement your dress, not compete with it. This means considering the dress's existing details—print, embellishment, neckline, colour—and choosing accessories that enhance rather than overwhelm.
Bold dress + simple accessories: If your dress has a statement print, detailed embroidery, or dramatic silhouette, keep accessories minimal. Let the dress be the star.
Simple dress + statement accessories: A plain cotton sundress provides the perfect canvas for bold jewellery, an eye-catching bag, or interesting shoes.
A helpful guideline: limit yourself to three focal points in any outfit. This might be your dress, earrings, and shoes—or your dress, bag, and hat. Too many competing elements create visual chaos.
Jewellery: The Style Multiplier
Necklaces
Neckline determines necklace choice:
- V-neck: Pendant necklaces that follow the V-line elongate and flatter
- Round neck: Collar-length pieces or chokers complement the neckline shape
- Square neck: Angular pieces echo the geometric neckline beautifully
- Off-shoulder/strapless: The perfect canvas for statement necklaces—go bold
- High neck: Skip necklaces; focus on earrings instead
Earrings
Earrings are arguably the most impactful summer accessory because they frame the face—essential when hair is often pulled back in the heat.
- Statement earrings: Pair with simple dresses and pulled-back hair for maximum impact
- Delicate studs or hoops: Perfect for printed or detailed dresses
- Drop earrings: Elegant for evening, particularly with upswept hair
Bracelets and Rings
Arm candy works particularly well in summer when bare arms are on display. Stack bracelets for bohemian vibes, or choose one elegant bangle for minimalist sophistication. Rings add interest to any look without risk of overwhelming.
Metal Tones
While mixing metals is increasingly accepted, cohesive metal tones create a more polished look. Consider your dress colour when choosing:
- Gold tones: Complement warm colours (coral, yellow, orange) and earth tones
- Silver tones: Work beautifully with cool colours (blue, purple, green) and black/white
- Rose gold: Versatile across colour palettes, particularly flattering with pink and neutral tones
- Heat causes skin to swell—choose adjustable pieces on very hot days
- Costume jewellery can discolour with sweat—save special pieces for cooler moments
- Consider waterproof options for beach and pool situations
Bags: Function Meets Style
Everyday Summer Bags
For daily summer activities, prioritise practicality alongside aesthetics:
- Crossbody bags: Hands-free convenience for markets, beach walks, and exploring
- Tote bags: Capacity for summer essentials—sunscreen, water bottle, sunglasses
- Basket and straw bags: Quintessentially summer, perfect for casual dresses
Evening and Occasion Bags
For dressier occasions:
- Clutches: Elegant for weddings and formal events
- Small crossbodies: Practical elegance for garden parties and dinners
- Beaded or embellished bags: Statement pieces that elevate simple dresses
Bag and Dress Coordination
Your bag doesn't need to match your dress perfectly. Instead, consider:
- Neutral bags (tan, nude, black, white) work across your entire wardrobe
- Statement bags can be the focal point with a simple dress
- Natural materials (straw, raffia, wicker) complement summer aesthetics
Footwear: From Sand to Sophistication
Sandals
The quintessential summer footwear. Key styles include:
- Flat leather sandals: Versatile for casual to smart-casual; invest in quality
- Strappy heeled sandals: Instant elevation for evening dresses
- Wedge sandals: Height with stability—ideal for outdoor events
- Gladiator sandals: Make a statement with simple dresses
Espadrilles
The rope-soled classic is perfect for summer dresses, offering a sophisticated European beach aesthetic. Available in flats or wedges, they complement everything from maxi dresses to mini sundresses.
White Sneakers
Clean white sneakers create an effortlessly cool look with casual summer dresses. This combination works particularly well for city exploring, casual brunches, and relaxed daytime activities.
Consider hemline when choosing heel height. Maxi dresses often need a slight heel to prevent dragging. Mini dresses can handle any heel height but look balanced with flats. Midi dresses are the most versatile—any footwear works.
Hats: Sun Protection Meets Style
In Australia's harsh sun, hats are practical necessities that double as style statements.
Wide-Brim Straw Hats
The classic summer hat offers excellent sun protection while creating instant beach glamour. Pair with maxi dresses and caftans for effortless coastal style.
Panama Hats
More structured and refined, panama hats work beautifully with tailored summer dresses for smart-casual occasions. Their neutral tones complement virtually any colour palette.
Bucket Hats
The casual, contemporary option. Bucket hats work best with relaxed, casual dresses and streetwear-influenced styles.
Visors
Practical for active days when you want sun protection without full head coverage. Best for very casual settings and sporty styles.
Sunglasses: Essential Summer Accessories
Sunglasses protect your eyes while completing your look. Choose shapes that complement your face shape:
- Round faces: Angular frames add definition
- Square faces: Round or oval frames soften angles
- Oval faces: Most shapes work—experiment freely
- Heart faces: Bottom-heavy frames balance a wider forehead
For versatility, a quality pair in neutral tortoiseshell or black works across all summer outfits.
Scarves and Cover-Ups
Lightweight scarves and cover-ups serve multiple purposes in summer styling:
- Silk scarves: Tie in hair, around a bag handle, or at the neck for elegant detail
- Light cardigans or kimono jackets: Warmth for air-conditioned spaces while adding visual interest
- Lightweight wraps: Evening temperature drops or transitioning between outdoor and indoor venues
- Balance is key—let either the dress or accessories be the star
- Consider the occasion and venue when selecting accessories
- Invest in quality neutrals that work across your wardrobe
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses) is both practical and stylish
- Don't forget comfort—test shoes and jewellery before wearing all day
Building a Versatile Accessory Collection
Rather than accumulating trendy pieces, build an accessory collection around versatile basics:
- Quality leather sandals in neutral tan or black
- One pair of heeled sandals for evening
- A neutral crossbody bag for everyday
- One statement bag for occasions
- Simple gold or silver hoops
- A wide-brim hat for sun protection
- Quality sunglasses in a flattering shape
With these basics in place, you can style countless summer dress outfits, adding occasional statement pieces as desired without constant shopping.