So you've got your show-stopping dress… but how are you going to accessorize? After all, that perfect piece of jewelry or eye-catching clutch can really bring the entire look together.
Don't forget what Coco Chanel said, though: "When accessorizing, always take off the last thing you put on." The point is that less is more when you're trying to make a statement. If you've got too many things going on, it can be distracting. So, choose accessories, but choose wisely.
If you want to choose wisely, you have to know where to begin! Here's a list of what all 2014's prom fashionistas are coveting this year, so you can get some ideas of what you think is hot or not.
Volcano Crystal Jewelry
A simple pair of clear crystal earrings is a great way to accentuate a va-va-voom dress. But sometimes, when you choose a solid-colored dress with minimal details, you want a little something to take it up a few notches. Volcano crystals are perfect for exactly that! These somewhat iridescent, multi-colored crystals have all the elegance of crystal earrings with the many different ways they can be cut and shaped, but they're just a little more eye-catching.
Sequin Clutches
Every girl loves a little sparkle and shine, so luckily, sequin clutches are the most stylish form of hand-candy this year. These small-but-mighty bags pick up on any shimmery detailing on your dress without stealing the show. Plus, they're perfectly practical for carrying some emergency makeup, a cell phone, and a few dollars in cash without being a burden.
Rose Gold
In terms of shoes, dress accents, and jewelry, rose gold is a hot trend this year – and we absolutely love it. It's a weird rule of fashion that you're either a "silver" or a "gold" – that your skin color only looks good in one or the other. Rose gold is the perfect compromise. The pink-ish sheen gives it a little something girly while still being delicate, and it can be prepared with nearly any color without being the "obvious" choice.
Glitter Platforms
Some girls go for understated shoes beneath their dresses, but glitter platforms are for those of us who aren't those girls. The substantial platform beneath the heel means that even though they're sky-high, they're not painful to walk in because there's plenty of support. The glittery finish says "glamour" and "look at me!" – they're not the shoes for anyone who doesn't love the spotlight.
At the end of the day, there are so many routes you can take when accessorizing prom dresses. Whether you want something vintage and a little Audrey Hepburn-inspired, or you want to go over-the-top glam, that's going to affect your accessory choices. Sometimes, though, seeing what's on-trend can help you make that decision!