How to accessorize your little black dress for any occasion.

You can’t own a little black dress without searching for a training manual on how to accessorize it. After all, it’s the most versatile piece in your wardrobe – each time you wear it, you can make it look new again, all by swapping your accessories.

Here’s how to accessorize your LBD 8 different ways and maximize its potential:

1. Think in opposites

The more complicated the design of your dress, the simpler your accessories should be – and vice versa. You don’t want to look too blah or too busy.

2. Pump up the volume

On your hair, that is. If you’re not big on jewelry, let your tresses be the accessory. Go with big waves a la JLo for a night out with the girls, or a stunning beehive a la Adele for a work-related cocktail party.

3. Add a pair of tights

If you’re going to a more casual shindig, you can dress down your LBD with a pair of creative tights, such as polka dots or plaid.

4. Party on with power prints

Pair your little black dress with a patterned clutch that has as much personality as you do, such as a chevron pattern in a striking shade.

5. Make a statement

Statement necklaces are a foolproof way to kick your LBD up a notch (or seven). I mean, who ever got anywhere in life being subtle? A dramatic necklace will transform your outfit into a showstopper.

6. Swing from the chandelier

Okay not really, but if you’re going for a lux, sophisticated look, a jaw-dropping pair of chandelier earrings will do the trick and then some. In fact, it’s not likely you’ll need to accessorize any further.

7. Edge it up

Edge up an ultra-feminine dress with futuristic-looking accessories, such as an intense bib necklace or a geometric cuff.

8. Go bold

If you’re going to pair a color with your LBD, make it a high-voltage one, like fuchsia or emerald. And whether that color’s added in the form of sky high heels or a unique clutch is totally up to you.

What are your favorite tips on how to accessorize a little black dress?

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Image: University of Salford

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Fall is here, and we’re all about the leather trend that’s hitting the streets after making its debut on the runways this Spring. We’re here to give you some eco-chic trending advice, and show you how to ride this trend in sustainable style by accessorizing your wardrobe with upcycled leather.

Whether you like to get crafty with your own hands, or admire the work of those that can turn one woman’s trash into every woman’s treasure, find out how to work the leather look this season. We’ll give you tips on DIY tutorials for cute earrings, bags and direct you to some of the nifty crafters that are turning old leather leather jackets and such into gorgeous, on-trend accessories. 

Bags
Leather bags go with almost anything, and what’s could be better than giving your tattered leather jacket a new life as your favorite new handbag? The woman that first brought this concept to the eco fashion market is the astounding Shannon South, who makes gorgeous bespoke bags from clients’ leather jackets under her ReMADe USA project. South also has a collection of finished bags made from remnant leather from the furniture industry—she’s one resourceful gal.

We’ve also got some favorite leather upcyclers on Etsy; TheCOBShop makes simple, useful and vintage inspired backpacks from old bomber jackets, while Apaluz makes super chic foldover clutches (below) out of upcycled leather pieces.

If you are a yogini or an aspiring one, check out this boho chic, DIY yoga mat bag from Sincerely, Kinsey. All you need is a rag rug, a circular piece of upcycled leather and a leather belt to make this colorful bag (below)!

Shoes
These customized and upcycled leather Esmerelda boots (above) from SnapDragonBoots on Etsy are cute, rocker chic and right on trend. Designer Holly Hattaway sources vintage cowgirl boots and turns them into stylish kicks to pair with skinny jeans, leather shorts or a figure-hugging dress. Contact her for a custom order in your size.

For something a little simpler and more feminine, and ideal for the indoors or winter getaways, go for Erinbonnie’s handmade and upcycled leather ballerina flats, available in a range of neutral and pastel colors.

Jewelry
Although leather is a tough material, it makes some of the most delicate and easy-to-wear jewelry. We love leather feathers, and especially these Flying leather earrings from underanewlight. They’re bright but delicate, and available in several gorgeous colors – wear them with your hair up to show them off!

To make your own upcycled leather earrings, check out this tutorial on Chelsie Daily Style—a super simple, quick and stylish way to upcycle and leather old belt or bag strap.

Upcycled leather necklaces are at the top of our list when it comes to accessories, especially the ones is HakNik’s Etsy shop. We went nuts over all the handmade creations in the collection, but the Petal Collection Necklaces have really caught our eye. Pair this statement piece with a simple dress or top.

We’re also loving this upcycled leather headband from Finnish shop Vietto, whose collection includes other upcycled leather pieces. Wear it with your hair up or down and pair it with a boho chic outfit.

Images:Shannon South, TheCOBShop, Apaluz, Sincerely, Kinsey, SnapDragonBoots, Erinbonnie, underanewlight, Chelsie Daily Style, HakNik, Vietto

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On Trend: Upcycled Biker Jackets

Handbags Born of Old Leather Jackets

The post How to Accessorize with Upcycled Leather: Bags, Shoes, & Jewelry (plus DIY!) appeared first on EcoSalon.