A black dress is a blank canvas: elegant, slimming and right for almost any evening. The only risk is that it can look flat. The answer is in the details, from the shoes to the lip colour.
Shoes
- Black pumps or strappy sandals: sleek and seamless, especially with a long dress.
- Metallic heels: gold, silver or champagne instantly make black more festive.
- A colour pop: red, emerald or fuchsia shoes add personality to a simple cocktail dress.
- Avoid: scuffed or casual shoes. With black, every detail shows.
Makeup for a black dress
Black can drain colour from the face, so start with luminous skin: a hydrating base, a touch of highlighter on the cheekbones and a little blush. Then choose one focus:
- Bold lip: classic red, berry or plum with simple lashes.
- Smoky eye: bronze, charcoal or deep brown, paired with a nude or rosy lip.
Avoid a completely matte, pale base with no colour; under evening light it can look tired against black.
Jewellery: statement or pearls?
Black is the ideal backdrop for jewellery. A statement piece, such as chandelier earrings or a sparkling collar necklace, suits strapless and one-shoulder styles. Pearls give a refined, classic feel and are lovely with high necks and long sleeves. Gold looks warm and rich, silver feels crisp and modern. Our jewellery by neckline guide explains what goes where.
Bag and outerwear
A metallic, satin or embellished clutch is an easy way to add light. Over the dress, try a camel or ivory coat for contrast, or a cropped faux-fur jacket for winter parties.
Hair
A polished low bun or sleek ponytail looks chic with black; soft waves keep it romantic. A jewelled hair clip is a pretty extra for festive occasions.
Making black festive for a wedding
Black is widely accepted at evening weddings, but it should look celebratory. Choose a dress with lace, satin, sequins or an interesting neckline, add metallic shoes and warm jewellery, and lift the look with a coloured clutch or a bright lip. Always check the invitation first, and see our wedding guest dress code guide.
Complete looks
- Wedding: a black lace midi, gold strappy sandals, pearl drops, a blush lip and a low bun.
- Gala: a black maxi gown, diamanté earrings, a silver clutch, a smoky eye and Hollywood waves.
- Party: a black mini, emerald heels, gold hoops, a red lip and a high ponytail.
Find your perfect black dress in our party and evening dresses.
