How to Dress Down a Dress - Penny Pincher Fashion (2024)

Searching for ideas on how to dress down a dress? Try these 10 ideas that will make you look more casual wearing a dress!

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9 EASY WAYS TO DRESS DOWN A DRESS

Do you ever put on dresses an instantly feel like they are “too much” for your casual lifestyle? Or maybe you’ve received the comment “oh, look at you all fancy”? When really all you did was throw on a dress and run out the door.

In any case, you want to know how to casually style dresses for a more laid back look.

Here are 9 easy ways to dress down a dress:

  1. Add a Jacket
  2. Wear Sneakers
  3. Wear a Belt
  4. Add a Hat
  5. Layer a Cardigan Over
  6. Layer a T-Shirt Over or Under
  7. Wear Ankle Boots
  8. Minimal Hair & Make-Up
  9. Wear Flats

1. Add a Jacket

A comfortable jacket is an easy way to look more casual. This is a good option for Spring and Fall!

Which jackets work best with dresses?

To look more casual in a dresses, stick with more relaxed jackets such and jean jackets, olive utility jackets, and bomber jackets.

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2. Wear Sneakers

If you want to know how to dress down a dress with zero effort, simply wear sneakers. Opting for a super casual shoe like sneakers will automatically give effortless chic vibes.

Which sneakers work best with dresses?

Low profile, clean, white sneakers are the best option to casually style dresses. This style sneakers works with various dress styles, prints, and colors!

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3. Wear a Belt to Dress Down a Dress

Pairing a simple belt with your outfit is a great way to look more casual, yet put together. Opt for a nice leather or elastic waist belt make your outfit appear more relaxed.

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4. Hats That Dress Down a Dress

Hats are a a really great option for a laid back look. Dresses and hats are the perfect combo for days when you have a lot of errands to run or are on the go a lot!

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What hats go best with dresses?

For a more relaxed look, baseball caps or beanies are the best option! Baseball caps are best for Spring and Summer (depending on where you live), while beanies are a good choice for Fall and Winter.

5. Layer a Cardigan on Top

For a cute and versatile way to casually style your dresses, add a cardigan! What I love about this option is that the cardigan can be worn as a true cardigan, tied at the waist, or tied over your shoulders. Either way, a cardigan is a sure way to make your dresses appear casual.

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Which cardigans are best for dresses?

If you’ll be wearing the cardigan around your waist or shoulders then a cropped or short style cardigan is best. Long cardigans are great for midi and maxi style dresses.

6. Wear a T-Shirt Under or Over

For a more trendy and casual look, wear a t-shirt under or over your dresses! A simple white t-shirt is all you need to easily look casual in your dresses. This style option works best with sleeveless dresses.This is a great way to extend the wear of your summer dresses into cooler seasons.

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The best t-shirts for layering under dresses

A slim-fit t-shirt will be the best option for layering. A slim fit will help to minimize any bunching or gathering under your dresses.

7. Add a Pair of Ankle Boots

Ankle boots are another easy way to make your outfit appear more casual, as compared to other footwear options. Flat to low heels are the most casual option for this look.

Any tall heels will give your outfit a more formal look, which is what you want to avoid for casual wear!

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8. Casual Make-Up & Hair

Less is more when it comes to dressing casually. Therefore, if you want to look more relaxed, go for less make-up and a super easy hairstyle! Throw on some mascara and bronzer with a ponytail for an effortless look!

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9. Ballet Flats Can Dress Down a Dress

Skip the pumps and opt for a simple ballet flat to get an instant casual look. Rounded toe flats will be the most casual style and pointed toe flats will be more formal yet casual.

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How to Dress Down a Dress - Penny Pincher Fashion (2024)
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