Black Dress Aesthetic: Styling a black dress aesthetically

Plain black dresses can be either aesthetic or boring, depends on whether you try to style them at all.

Matches Fashion: Raey: Tuck waist silk dress

COS: Maxi kaftan dress, accessories

They can be dressed up or down to suit almost any aesthetic, but they have really been a wardrobe staple only since Coco Chanel. In this article, we will explore the different types of black dresses available, as well as how to make them work for a couple of different indie aesthetics: Cottagecore, dark academia and 60s vintage aesthetic.

People love black dress aesthetic because it’s easy to wear. Black dresses can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion, and they always look understated. If all you want is to look put-together without making any statement, then black dress is the easiest way to get that.

Other than that, black is the easiest colour to style and combine, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to be done dressing quickly but still wear aesthetic clothes.

Black dress in indie aesthetics

Black dresses have been seen in different indie aesthetics, such as cottagecore, dark cottagecore, dark academia or various vintage aesthetics.

Keep reading if you are interested in indie fashion and want to know more about the different ways black dresses can be aesthetically styled.

Black dress in cottagecore aesthetic

In the cottagecore aesthetic, black dresses are often modest, longish and may feature flowery prints.

Matches Fashion: Ulla Johnson, Cybil silk dress

Sondeflor boutique (also on Etsy), Peasant dress

Paired with natural materials like leather, straw, and linen, they gives the outfit a laid-back, rustic vibe that is perfect for that Jane Austen era aesthetic. You can also add a touch of whimsy with floral accessories or a printed scarf.

COS: Eyelet midi dress

Etsy: Lokonkokon, Dark cottagecore dress

Black dress in 60s vintage aesthetic

The 60s take on the black dress aesthetic is juicier.

Matches Fashion: Giambattista Valli, Braid dress

Etsy: SwingingChicksShop, 60s aesthetic bell sleeve mini dress

In the 60s fashion aesthetic, black dresses are often paired with mod accessories like geometric jewelry, tights, and Mary Janes. This look is perfect for parties or special occasions. You can also add a pop of color with a brightly-colored scarf or belt.

Etsy: SwingingChicksShop, Black and white dress (60s replica)

Matches Fashion: Pippa Holt, Embroidered 70s hippie kaftan

For a more casual look, try pairing your black dress with a denim jacket, sneakers, and a statement necklace. This look is perfect for vintage aesthetics.

MissPatina: Charlene

Matches Fashion: Balmain, Pleated houndstooth mini dress

Black dress in academia aesthetics

Matches Fashion: Burberry, Black georgette belted dress

Etsy: LeMuse, Peter pan dress

In the dark academia aesthetic, black dresses are often paired with heavy fabrics like wool and tweed. This gives the outfit a sophisticated and formal look that is perfect for school or work. You can also add a touch of glamour with sparkly jewelry or a fur stole.

Etsy: Lokonkokon, Dark academia dress

Matches Fashion: Valentino, Embroidered point collar dress

How to make a plain black dress look aesthetic

If you’re looking for more black dress aesthetic options that reflects your unique style, there’s more just below.

• For those who prefer a casual normcore aesthetic, consider a black dress with a denim jacket and sneakers.
• Depending how far you can take it with accessories, this look could work for some vintage aesthetics or the dark academia aesthetic.
• If you’re looking for a formal but aesthetic look, try a black dress with statement jewelry and heels. You could spice up a simple black dress using large, geometric, statement art deco jewelry.

And for those who prefer the academia aesthetics, consider a black dress with heavy knits and leather accessories. This look is aesthetic but at the same time put together and perfect for school or work.

Matches Fashion: Sacai, Check panelled dress

Etsy: Fomonkpodafant

Sondeflor.com: Audrey

Matches Fashion: Batsheva, Harper broderie-collar dress