Please help me accessorize! I'm rubbish at this sort of thing...

[MrsPlugThePlumber]

I'm wearing this dress and would like to formal it up a bit...

Any suggestions for hair/makeup/shoes/cardigan/jacket/bag etc would be very much appreciated. I'm not brimming with confidence when it comes to this kind of thing.

Also, it looks very nice on, so please don't tell me it's awful!

Thank you Mumsnet!

[DaftSkunk]

I'm crap at accessorizing so will be no help with this sorry, but just wanted to say I think it's a lovely dress .

[MrsPlugThePlumber]

Thank you! :)

[ListenToTheLady]

Dress is lovely!

I would wear that with something bright like orange or magenta tights or cardi, but I do like bright colours.

As it has black detailing it would also work with black tights/cardi/shoes and then add some colour with a bright statement necklace or scarf/bag.

A chunky necklace this kind of style:
here
or this kind of thing

[MerryMarigold]

I'd wear it with this or any bright cardie with buttons to the neck.

I'd get some 'button' earrings...you know bright plastic ones, kind of 50's.

[vitaminC]

Well, the best way to look more formal is to add plain (unpatterned) items in neutral colours and quality (natural) materials.

Depending on the occasion, you could add some combination of the following:

Patent leather heels
Leather handbag
Leather belt
Cashmere wrap/shrug/cardigan
Tailored jacket/coat
Gold or silver (or pearl) jewellery/watch (no statement necklaces etc)

[MerryMarigold]

I like these too.

I think I would avoid a necklace as there is a lot going on at the neck...imo.

[vitaminC]

Oh and a "formal" hairdo is one where your hair is away from your face - blow-dried back, or up in a chignon etc.

Keep make-up simple and fairly natural, with a focus on one feature - bright glossy lips or smoky eyes, but not both!

[MerryMarigold]

fantastic
this was what I meant originally by button earrings
ooh to go with the cardigan

[MrsPlugThePlumber]

You're all brill, thanks! Will click links when kids are in bed :)