How to Accessorize a Simple Dress For Different Vibes

By Ariel Kanter
Banana Republic Factory Store
Banana Republic Factory Store
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When we're shopping for wardrobe workhorses, we're all about versatility. Got a new white tee? Tuck it into jeans or chinos or a daring mini skirt. Got a pair of new booties? Make sure they look good with your work attire and your play attire, too. But perhaps our favorite does-it-all go-to is the simple dress. Maybe it's a cotton midi or a silk slip: unembellished enough to transition from day to night, from the office to a bar to vacation somewhere warm.

If you have one of these dresses but aren't sure how to accessorize and amp up its versatility, we can help. Below you'll find our favorite ways to dress up, dress down, and vacationize that simple wardrobe staple. Pick a few accessories, mix and match, and you may just be able to wear that dress every day without anyone ever knowing.

For the Office
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For the Office

When it comes to accessorizing for the office, focus on layering (because offices get cold!). For casual settings, a comfortable pullover is perfect, like this drop-shoulder sweater ($21). Pick it up in a few colors and always keep one draped over your chair for when the AC kicks on.

If you need to be a bit more formal, go for this elegant wool cape ($375) or a blazer. We particularly love this blazer's ($490) collarless neckline, but a more structured blazer would also give you girl boss vibes. As for shoes, depending on the season, you may want a heeled bootie, but for warmer weather, pick up a pair of delicate ballet flats. These Jimmy Choo flats ($795) have just a little extra embellishment for a work outfit with some pizzaz.

For a Fancy Event
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For a Fancy Event

If you've got a simple dress and need to amp it up for a fancy event, get yourself some bold accessories. That means big earrings, like these hammered hoops ($15), and an embellished bag ($780) (in a fun color!). We love a statement headpiece, like a bejeweled headband ($450). And for shoes, you'll want a heel, preferably with some embellishment, too. Go for a sky-high stiletto if you're feeling brave or, for more stability, try a mule ($1075) with a slightly lower heel and a statement-making pointed toe.

For Vacation
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For Vacation

When it comes to vacation dressing (and packing), keeping it simple is imperative. If you're only packing one or two dresses, just a few accessories should be able to keep your look fresh for the whole trip. For daytime wear, a strappy espadrille ($90) will be perfect for walking the boardwalk to heading to the beach. Don't forget your hat ($17) or sunglasses ($360), either. Then for nighttime, you'll want a vibrant heel ($895) — and embellishments to amp things up are welcome. Of course, if the weather gets chilly, a perfectly crisp linen top ($128) will go a long way. Wear it open or tie it around your waist for stylish '90s vibes.