How to Make A Dress More Casual

Dressing down a dress is my favorite way to style elevate casual looks. Some times wearing a dress can seem too formal, but there are plenty of ways to make a dress more casual. Whether you’re running errands, meeting friends for lunch, or just want to feel comfortable and chic while out and about, incorporating a dress into your casual wardrobe is easier than you think. I’m sharing 10 easy ways to dress down a dress while still looking effortlessly chic. 

How to Make A Dress More Casual

Layering With a Sweater

A quick way to instantly add a casual vibe to your dress is to wear a sweater over your shoulders. I love this styling tips with any outfit. It’s like you just decided to casually throw on a sweater without committing to it. Almost like it was a last minute decision. If you feel like your look is too dressy, tie a sweater over your shoulders. You can also add a cardigan if you find that the over the shoulder method is uncomfortable.

Ivory sweaters like this one are great to a have on hand since they will go with most items in your wardrobe. You will get the most wear out of it all year long. I love a classic crewneck sweater or a buttoned up cardigan for layering over the shoulders. It’s all about striking the right balance with proportions. For example, a snug-fit dress is a great match for a more generously sized sweater.

I’m wearing the navy Twiggy dress. Take 10% off with code TARATHORSEN. For more on this classic brand, read all about them here.

 

Belts to Wear With Dresses

Adding a belt to a dress is another casual chic styling trick. Not only does it help to create a more defined waist, but it breaks up the dress. Choose suede belts for more casual looks. The added texture keeps the look more informal. Choose a leather belt for a more polished option. Either way, adding a belt to a dress is a simple styling trick to help dress down a dress.

Boots To Wear With Dresses

Dresses with knee high boots are my favorite way to style dresses in fall and winter. It not only keep you warmer by adding an extra layer to your legs, but is incredibly chic. Neutral boots will be your best bet for matching most outfits, however feel free to wear black, brown, ivory, or even burgundy!

I love the shine of leather boots but suede boots do give off a more relaxed feel. If you’re torn between wanting to elevate your style or keep it casual, here’s a tip: opt for leather boots for a sophisticated yet easygoing vibe, and go for suede boots when you’re aiming for a more laid-back look. This dress is so versatile, it can be dressed up or down.

Dresses With Coats

Adding a coat over your dress can play up the casual vibe if your coat is a little bit relaxed. Opting for a boxy silhouette such as a slightly oversized top coat, peacoat, or a coat that’s shorter in length, is a simple trick to dial down the dressiness of a dress.

Match your coat length to your dress length. When it comes to pairing a coat with your dress, remember this simple rule: the length of your dress should match the length of your coat. So, a shorter dress needs a shorter coat, and a longer dress needs a longer coat. Puffer coats are best left wearing with pants or jeans. Unless it’a a longer style puffer coat, I can see that being worn with a sweater dress and boots. I’m wearing the same Twiggy dress but in ivory eyelet.

Sneakers with Dresses

When thinking about how to make a dress more casual, sneakers are probably the first thing that pops into mind. Choosing low-profile sneakers is the best way to wear sneakers with dresses. Athletic sneakers can throw off the whole look. White sneakers, in particular, are incredibly versatile and can add a fresh, contemporary feel to your dress.  While you can wear sneakers with midi and maxi dresses, I love how a short dress pairs so well with this vibe. Adding a baseball cap leans right into this overall casual look.

Add a Denim Jacket To Dress Down a Dress

A denim jacket is a classic wardrobe staple. Not only is it a great transitional piece to wear between seasons, but it instantly adds a relaxed vibe. The rigid texture combined with the classic design adds contrasts to the most feminine dresses.

I love a denim jacket with any length dress. You can get away with styling a denim jacket with short, midi, and maxi dresses.

Baseball Caps: Sporty and Stylish

Baseball caps not only adds a sporty edge but also gives a youthful vibe into your outfit. I sometimes have a hard time styling baseball caps. While I think they are so cute on other people, I have a hard time loving them on myself. However I just discovered the chicest baseball hats out there! If you’re looking for a classic yet modern baseball hat, try this new brand. Bad hair days, be gone! I ordered the olive and can’t wait to get it!

Choose a cap with a neutral color or subtle branding for a versatile addition to your wardrobe. It’s an easy way to dress down without looking like you’re trying too hard.

How To Make a Dress More Casual With the Right Jewelry

Less is more when it comes to jewelry. Opt for delicate necklaces or simple hoop or stud earrings to keep the focus on the relaxed nature of your outfit. Wearing too much jewelry can actually make your outfit dressier.  Choosing the right accessories can really change the overall look of an outfit.

I have favorites when it comes to everyday jewelry. I either wear my diamond stud earrings, small gold hoops, or pearl clusters earrings. These are my most worn earrings that can be worn with both dressy and casual outfits. If you shop this jewelry brand, take 30% off with TARA30.

How To Make a Dress More Casual With Bags

Choose laid-back bags to keep the overall vibe informal. Bucket bags, hobo style bags, and crossbody bags that are less structured can contribute to the casual aesthetic. Contrary to popular belief, you can wear raffia bags in the winter. Especially when it’s paired with leather like this crossbody bag.

Here I’m wearing my most worn loafers. Wearing dresses with loafers is a great alternative to sneakers for casual chic style outfits. Check out my other post on how to style loafers for more timeless style inspiration.

How to Make a Dress More Casual: Sunglasses

Adding a pair of sunglasses is the easiest way to make your look more casual while still being super chic. It adds a “not trying too hard” impression. I was recently at an outdoor party where a woman was wearing a pleated satin slip skirt with a tank tip and sunglasses. The result was so effortless chic. She totally nailed the casual chic look!

Tortoise sunglasses are my favorite all year around choice. The multi color style makes these easy to wear with any and all outfits.

Dressing down a dress doesn’t mean compromising on style. Mixing essential pieces such as a jean jacket, a baseball hat, and casual shoes, you can create a chic look that fits any casual setting. Keep in mind, achieving an effortless style is all about striking the perfect balance. It’s about thoughtfully pairing the right items to create an outfit that appears casual yet chic.