How to Add Color to a White Dress

There are so many options that come to mind when I think about how to add color to a white dress, so I am styling two of mine for you all. Additionally, I am shopping related, affordable pieces so that you can copy my looks.

Look #1: It is coming up all lemons

I am starting my how to add color to a white dress guide with one of my favorite prints- lemons! You may or may not know, but I have an obsession with all things lemon.

For this outfit I am starting with a white dress that can technically hold its own with mini ruffle details and some minor layering. The lemon piece functions as a wrap, meaning it has a hole and a tie that you pull through. You can wear the lemon wrap by itself as a wrap dress, but I feel more secure wearing something under it, so I am utilizing it more as a cardigan here. When taking a closer look at the wrap, we can see white dots, which tie the dress in.

I do not want to go too crazy with the jewelry, considering all that pattern, so a simple disc necklace will do. The same theory applies to the shoes and bag, let’s keep it simple and let the lemons have their moment.

This outfit is a great example of layering with your white dress. Similar to what I show in my little black dress guide, think about how you can spice it up. Maybe you will wear a shirt over or under it. Or, try a cardigan, similar to what I am doing here. White is the ultimate blank canvas, so you can get away with virtually anything you want to layer it with.

Outfit details:
Dress- H&M
Wrap- Forever 21
Shoes- Attention from Kmart
Bag- rue21
Jewelry- unknown

Look #2: Pop of coral

My second outfit reveals adding a pop of color! This white dress is beautiful, not only when it blows in the wind, but with the crochet section at the top. Considering the top is busy, I am wearing earrings as my jewelry. Alternatively, I can see a necklace with a long chain so that the crochet and necklace are not fighting for attention.

Strappy shoes with a wedge heel make this look feel more dressy, but a flat sandal can transition it to the beach or brunch. You will notice that everything is white here- the earrings, dress, and shoes. I am setting the stage for that ultra glossy coral handbag.

Sometimes I find it hard to style colored bags, especially in shades like coral, mint, red, etc. because every designer has their own rendition of the color. So, for example, if I carry this coral bag with a coral dress, but the two are completely different shades, I fear that it looks like I am trying to force two distinctly different pieces to work together, that obviously do not. That is one of my own made up fashion rules, but you can do what you want. But, when you are working with white, its backdrop supports whatever color you want.

If you do not like coral, then pick another another color to make your statement pop! You do not even have to do it with a bag. Consider a pair of statement earrings, a colorful pair of shoes, or some layered bangle bracelets. This is a great time to blow the dust off your favorite pair of red shoes and give them a try. Maybe you want all of your accessories to make a pop, and the only white item will be the dress itself. You are in control.

Outfit details:
Dress- Indigo Rose from Ross
Handbag- Ross
Shoes- Life Stride from Peebles
Earrings- C&C from TJMaxx

FAQ

How can I add color to a white dress?

You can add color to a white dress through accessories like statement earrings, colorful belts, shoes, or handbags. Bold shades such as coral, turquoise, yellow, or metallics instantly elevate a white outfit while keeping it chic and balanced.

What are some color combinations that look good with a white dress?

White pairs beautifully with bright and warm tones like coral, lemon yellow, turquoise, blush, or metallic gold. These shades create a summer-fresh or vacation-ready aesthetic and help the outfit stand out.

How do I style a white dress with prints?

Layering a printed piece, like a lemon-patterned wrap or cardigan, adds dimension and personality to a plain white dress. Keep jewelry and shoes simple to let the print be the focal point of your look.

How can I make a white dress outfit look more polished?

Opt for structured accessories or metallic details. A glossy colored handbag or wedge heels can elevate the look for brunch, parties, or events while maintaining a fresh and balanced style.

Can I experiment with different accessories when wearing a white dress?

Yes. A white dress is a blank canvas, allowing you to mix and match accessories freely. Try bold earrings, colorful shoes, layered bracelets, or even a patterned jacket to create unique, eye-catching outfits.

White dresses are a powerful force in your wardrobe, and they give you free reign to pair them with other pieces that you may not gravitate to often because the colors or patterns might throw you off. What is your favorite way to style a white dress? Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.