The black dress is iconic for a reason. Timeless and endlessly adaptable, it can carry you through every setting, from casual daytime to formal evenings. WalG designs black dresses with this flexibility in mind: pieces that give you classic elegance but with gorgeous contemporary design details. This style guide shows you how to style a little black dress for every occasion, with inspiration drawn from our very own collection.
The foundation: finding your perfect WalG black dress
The key to styling starts with the right silhouette. Our collection of black dresses covers every mood and moment, whether you want sleek minimalism or high-impact detail.
- Midi: The Eloise Black V-Neck Midi Dress defines the waist and elongates the frame with a sharp V neckline, structured straps, and a subtle thigh slit for movement.
- Maxi: The MISHKA Silver Backless Maxi Dress plays with light and texture. Its glitter finish and waist-hugging cut look beautiful seen still, and its diagonal lining across the skirt adds fluidity to its movement.
- Mini: The FELICITY A Line Chiffon Mini Dress is ethereal and modern, with sheer long sleeves and flowing lines that balance a flirty, A-line mini skirt.
Choose the cut that works with your shape and your wardrobe needs. A defined waist, for example, works well if you like structure, while fluid ruffles or asymmetry suit those who prefer movement in their look.
How to style a black dress for a casual day out
A black dress is the easiest route to quick, easy formal. But styled differently—it doesn’t have to be. Make yours part of your everyday wardrobe with casual styling: layer with a denim jacket for an off-duty finish, for example, or switch to a cropped leather jacket for something sharper. Swap heels for sleek mono-white sneakers if you want comfort that still looks pulled together, or try flat ankle boots for cooler days.
As for accessories, add a matching black crossbody bag to keep it practical and hands-free, and delicate jewelry if you like just a hint of detail. A casual belt can also be a thoughtful addition to a little black dress; it not only defines the waist but can also change the overall shape, breaking up the look and giving you more variety from a single piece.
How to style a black dress for the office
At work, a black dress is professional and versatile. Ground the look with pointed-toe flats, loafers, or block heels. A structured tote keeps everything refined, while being practical enough to comfortably fit your laptop and essential paperwork. A touch of minimal jewelry, such as a pendant necklace and understated earrings, completes the sharp, polished mood.
How to style a little black dress for a night out
Evenings are where the little black dress shines best. If the dress itself is minimal, use bold chandelier earrings or a statement necklace to create impact, and if the neckline is already dramatic, let it speak for itself with sleek hair and strong makeup. Strappy heels keep the look elegant, while embellished pumps add personality and sparkle. A clutch lets a classically refined dress shine, while a mini shoulder bag is more trend-led, but still pairs well. WalG’s evening dresses and occasionwear collections are designed for night outs that mean more—the perfect foundation for high-impact styling.
How to style a black dress for a formal event
When the occasion demands elegance, look for black dresses in luxe finishes like satin or velvet. Metallic heels and a matching jewel-toned clutch elevate and refine the look, as do statement jewelry pieces such as pearls or diamonds. Don't forget that the right hairstyle can make or break a formal aesthetic—a sleek updo, for example, can highlight a dramatic neckline and effortlessly add class to your look. WalG’s formal maxi dresses are designed for exactly these red-carpet-ready occasions.
Accessorising your black dress: The finishing touches
The right accessories can completely transform a black dress, shifting it from casual to formal, minimal to statement, and day to night. Here’s how to make each element work for you:
- Belts: Use a belt to define or reshape the silhouette. A slim metallic belt highlights the waist without overwhelming the dress, while a wide leather belt adds edge and contrast.
- Jewelry: Minimal chains and studs keep things clean for the day, but statement necklaces, drop earrings, or layered bangles turn a simple black dress into something evening-ready.
- Bags: A crossbody bag works for casual errands, a structured tote suits the office, and a clutch sets the tone for night and formal occasions.
- Shoes: Sneakers give the dress a laid-back feel, ankle boots add structure, and stilettos or embellished heels push the look firmly into evening territory.
With the right accessories, one black dress can become an entire wardrobe of looks, so you're ready for any occasion.
Your black dress, your rules: make it your own
The black dress is nothing more or less than a canvas, ready for you to paint. Whatever your vision – minimal, elevated, formal, casual—you can achieve it with our collection of pieces, designed with care for any occasion. Explore the full WalG black dresses collection and find your new favorite today.
