Being able to take an outfit from casual to dressy with just your accessories might seem like a superpower—and it really might be! Making your clothing and accessories work in multiple situations is crucial to getting the most bang for your buck, having a less cluttered wardrobe, and making your clothes work well for you.

You might be wondering how to style jewelry so it works with many different outfits. The secret? It’s to make sure your wardrobe contains colors that go well together—then picking the right outfit jewelry. Let’s talk more about how this all works.

Do You Need to Revamp Your Entire Wardrobe?

Elevating your style from casual to dressy doesn't require a complete wardrobe overhaul. The secret lies in mastering the art of accessorizing. Ever wondered how to seamlessly transition from a laid-back look to a sophisticated ensemble with just a few key pieces? The answer is in the details—your outfit jewelry. 

Whether it's knowing how to wear necklaces with dresses, selecting the perfect earrings, or finding the right accessories for that formal dress, the key is to understand how to match jewelry with your outfit. In this guide, we'll unravel the secrets of how to style jewelry to not only enhance your attire but also express your unique fashion sense. Let's dive into the world of accessories and discover how to effortlessly dress up any outfit, turning your casual clothes into chic ensembles for any occasion. One way to help with jewelry and outfit pairing is by understanding the science behind color combinations.

What’s a Color Wheel?

If you have never heard of a color wheel, you are about to have your mind blown. Color wheels are used to help people pick colors that go together, like in graphic design or interior design. However, the color wheel principles can be applied to your clothing and jewelry as well. You are specifically looking for color pairings that are complementary, analogous, tertiary, secondary, and primary. Here is what they all mean and how they relate:

• Complementary: These are colors that are positioned opposite of each other on the color wheel, and they go well together! Complementary pairings are more intense combinations. 
• Analogous: These colors are typically next to each other or very close to each other on the color wheel. These pairings are less intense than complementary colors.
• Primary: These are red, yellow and blue. They can’t be made by mixing colors together.
• Secondary: These are green, purple and orange. These are the colors that can be made by mixing equal parts of the primary colors.
• Tertiary: These are made by combining primary and secondary colors.

So, what do color pairings have to do with dressing up your outfit? So much! Making sure that the colors of your outfit go well together and pair well with the colors of your accessories, is key to a dressier, more put-together outfit and a pleasing, professional look. Can you put together casual outfits with the color wheel, too? Sure! The color wheel is a great way to put together any kind of outfit, and is great to keep in mind as you get ready for any and all occasions.

How to Pair Accessories with Your Clothes

Unlocking the secrets of outfit jewelry and mastering the art of accessorizing goes beyond the color wheel, though. Metals and hues in your jewelry can truly elevate your outfits. Unsurprisingly, specific colors and materials seamlessly complement each other, creating an impeccable fusion of style. Ever wondered about the best practices for how to wear necklaces with dresses or how to match jewelry with your outfit? It's not just about color coordination but also understanding the lengths of necklaces and the intricate dance of jewelry pairings.

Picture this—the lush green that pairs effortlessly with the regality of gold jewelry. The magic lies in the analogy between green and yellow on the color wheel, making gold a go-to choice for an elevated look. Want to infuse a touch of sophistication in a formal dress? Opt for jewelry flaunting rose gold, red, or pink hues; they effortlessly mingle with neutral tones and their color wheel counterparts.

When it comes to necklaces, length matters. Longer necklaces exude an air of elegance, instantly elevating your outfit. Consider experimenting with layered necklaces for a trendy vibe, but tread carefully—layering tends to lean towards a more casual aesthetic.

Earrings, the unsung heroes of accessorizing! For those with pierced ears, you can never go wrong with the timeless elegance of pearl studs. Whether they dangle or hug your earlobe, pearls effortlessly dress up any outfit. Don't have pierced ears? Fear not! Clip-on pearls and statement hair accessories are your go-to options for adding that extra flair.

In essence, accessories wield the power to transform your outfit.

How to Accessorize and Dress up Jeans and a Tee

Everyone loves a classic jeans and tee outfit. While you probably will not be dressy enough for church or a more formal event, this outfit is a great option when your office allows you to dress casually but you still want to look professional. Outside of work, you can also dress up jeans and a tee for a date. For most dates, you generally want to look put-together but not too dressy. While any jeans will work, dark-wash jeans look the dressiest.

Gray, black, or dark blue jeans paired with a nice blouse, or any shirt really, can be dressed up dramatically. Selecting a set of dangly earrings in a neutral tone (such as gold or silver) can really elevate your outfit. To take it to the next level, grab a necklace in a matching metal. By matching metals, you will pull your outfit together and give it a classy feel. Pair your outfit with a set of wedges or heels for an even more polished look.

How to Wear Necklaces with Dresses That Are Casual

Casual dresses can be great for so many things, such as breakfast with friends, taking a walk, or just being comfy at home. However, when it comes time to go to a more formal event, you might be wondering how you can enhance your favorite casual dress. 

First, grab your favorite pair of dressier shoes. Wedges and heels are always good go-tos. Next, add a nice handbag in a neutral color. Last (but definitely not least), add a longer necklace and stud earrings. Sticking with metals like silver, gold, and rose gold will look fanciest. If you can, add in pearls or opals, which can help elevate your outfit as well!

How to Dress Up Shorts and a Shirt

If you’re trying to make your shorts look dressier, start with a nicer blouse. A nice blouse will help elevate the shorts and the overall look. Shorts, especially denim shorts, can be very casual. If you can, opt for another kind of shorts as they will have a dressier look. When going for dressy-casual, remember that a nice top and shorts are easier to dress up than a T-shirt and shorts. 

As for accessories, pair your outfit with a set of dangly earrings and a short necklace in, you guessed it, a neutral metal. If you really want to make yourself look dressy, add a pair of wedges. Heels have their place, but they might be too fancy to wear with shorts.

Hopefully, these tips have helped you better understand how something as simple as accessories can elevate your outfit. While you definitely need to pay attention to what is considered appropriate wherever you are going, fashion is also a way of expressing yourself. As long as you feel comfortable, modest, and confident—that is what really matters. As you’re shopping for necklaces, earrings, and purses, make sure you check out Sweet Salt’s collection of accessories!