When asked about the most versatile dress for casual wear, one answer that consistently comes to mind is the iconic black and white striped dress. While there are countless other stunning dresses available, many of these are typically reserved for semi-formal or formal events. In contrast, a well-styled black and white striped dress can effortlessly create a charming ‘girl-next-door’ look.
Some may assume it’s an easy outfit to put together, but with the right styling tips, you can elevate your overall appearance. To help you achieve the perfect look, I’ve curated some of my top suggestions for wearing a black and white striped dress – let’s take a closer look.
Black and White Striped T Shirt Dress with Ankle Boots
Elevate your style by pairing a sleek long-sleeved striped t-shirt dress in black and white hues with rugged yet refined suede ankle boots. To complete the look, add some subtle sophistication with a statement piece of jewelry – think delicate necklaces and understated bracelets that catch the eye without overwhelming the outfit’s overall simplicity.
Wear with Cargo Jacket Over Black and Plaid Linen Scarf
To elevate your style game, why not try layering a striped tee dress under an army green cargo jacket? The contrast between the soft, casual dress and the rugged, utilitarian jacket creates a visually appealing look. To take it to the next level, add some texture with suede boots and a pop of pattern with a plaid linen scarf.
Wear with Brown Wool Coat
To create a stylish yet relaxed ensemble, consider pairing the striped dress with a brown wool coat that’s only slightly shorter than the dress itself. This unexpected combination can be elevated by adding black stockings and sleek leather ankle boots.
Wear with Black Leather Jacket
Elevate the comfort-focused appeal of the classic black and white striped dress by pairing it with a sleek black leather jacket. For an added touch of glamour, opt for silver open-toe heels and complement them with a black and white polka dot bag that beautifully harmonizes with the striped dress’s aesthetic.
Black and White Split Mini Dress with Strappy Heels
Embellish your look by wearing the dress in a sultry and feminine manner. To achieve this, opt for a daring high-split mini dress as the foundation piece. Next, complement its allure with sleek strappy heels and an understated yet sophisticated black clutch.
Black and White Striped Dress with Thin Belt
Black and white striped dresses often take the form of a t-shirt dress, resulting in a loose silhouette around the waist. But if you’re blessed with a defined waistline, don’t miss your chance to style the dress in a way that elongates your figure. One simple trick is to cinch your waist with a thin belt, creating a more defined silhouette. To complete the look, opt for nude heeled sandals that complement the outfit nicely.
Wide Striped Dress with Denim Jacket
The humble denim jacket is another cornerstone of casual fashion, and when paired with a black and white striped dress, it’s a match made in heaven. The simplicity of this combination allows you to create an effortless outfit by throwing on the jacket over the dress and finishing off the look with some crisp white sneakers.
This understated yet stylish ensemble serves as a perfect example of how to effortlessly blend casual and chic, all while utilizing pieces that are likely already staples in your wardrobe. It’s a testament to the power of great style, which can elevate even the most basic elements into something truly special.
Tie Linen Scarf around the Waist
Imagine strolling along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, feeling the warm sun on your skin as you wear this effortlessly chic outfit. The combination of a linen scarf wrapped around your waist, a comfortable t-shirt dress, and sturdy ankle boots evokes the carefree spirit of a beachside getaway. Add to that a felt hat, and you’ll be perfectly styled for a day of soaking up the sun and sea. It’s as if the Mediterranean coast has come to life on your person.
Wear Three-Quarter Sleeve Dress with Just White Converse
When you’re in great physical shape, the old adage ‘less is more’ rings especially true. A well-toned physique can create a powerful visual illusion, making you appear taller than you actually are – regardless of your natural height. This is because proportionate muscle mass and definition can elongate the appearance of your legs, drawing the eye downwards and creating a sense of length.
For instance, pairing a simple mini dress with white Converse sneakers creates a striking combination that visually extends the length of your legs, thanks to the short hemline and low-cut shoes. The result is a polished, put-together look that belies the simplicity of the outfit.
Wear with Baseball Cap & Sneakers
Maintaining a similar approach to the previous outfit, create a streamlined ensemble that creates an illusion of height and slenderness. To add a playful touch, incorporate a baseball cap and sneakers into your look. As the sun begins to shine brighter with the arrival of summer, this laid-back combination can instantly boost your mood and make you appear more charming and alluring.
Sleeveless Striped Dress with Open Toe Heels
Let’s shift our focus to a more refined look, perfect for work. Instead of a relaxed T-shirt dress, consider pairing a fit-and-flare striped dress with black heels and a brown purse. If you’re interested in exploring more outfit ideas featuring similar silhouettes, be sure to check out our previous blog post on fit-and-flare dress outfit ideas.
Wide Striped Maxi Dress
Shifting gears from shorter dresses to their longer counterparts, let’s explore the versatility of maxi dresses. A black and white wide striped maxi dress, in particular, exudes a sense of sophistication and maturity. In contrast to shorter dresses that evoke feelings of playfulness and energy, this longer silhouette creates an air of elegance. To amplify its mature vibe, pair it with black heels and a black purse for a chic and polished look.
Tie Denim Jacket Around Waist
Building upon the timeless appeal of classic black and white Converse shoes, this outfit idea effortlessly combines style with simplicity. Pair the short-sleeved striped dress with a denim jacket tied around your waist for a chic, laid-back look that exudes effortless cool. For an added touch of springtime freshness, top off the ensemble with a grass-green hat that adds a pop of color to the overall aesthetic.
With its iconic and beautiful design, this dress is incredibly easy to wear and style – so go ahead, give it a try if you haven’t already!
