If you want something that’s warm but not too heavy, reach for a cashmere pashmina wrap or shawl.

A wide pashmina scarf or shawl makes an elegant complement to most dresses. Shawls and scarves are incredibly versatile, and will look good with anything from a cocktail dress or formal evening gown to a casual bohemian maxi dress.

On a cool evening, you could cover up with a faux fur capelet for a striking and luxurious look, or pick a cozy knitted capelet if you’re going more casual. Keep in mind that a capelet probably won’t keep you warm enough in truly chilly weather, though. [4] X Research source If you don’t want to completely hide your back and shoulders, but are just looking for a little more coverage, opt for a sheer or lacy capelet. A capelet that flares slightly is a fabulous complement to a slinky, hip-hugging dress.

To give your outfit a stylish but casual edge, put on a denim or suede jacket. [6] X Research source Add a blazer for a more professional look. [7] X Expert Source Cassandra SethiPersonal Stylist & Image Consultant Expert Interview. 31 August 2021. Avoid wearing anything bulky, baggy, or shapeless, like a slouchy cardigan. If it’s not too chilly, leave the jacket open so that you don’t completely conceal the shape of your dress.

If you want even more coverage, slip on a body stocking. Choose a sheer or nude-colored stocking for a look that’s tantalizing while still offering a bit of modesty.

For example, if you’re wearing a solid, cream-colored dress, match it up with a deep red shawl or a jewel-toned blue jacket. Or, you could pair a solid navy dress with a yellow and white floral-patterned wrap. If your dress is patterned or brightly colored, stick to a coverup in a solid, neutral color (such as black, white, dark blue, taupe, or even metallic silver or gold). [9] X Research source

For instance, create a dramatic look by matching a lacy shawl or a faux fur stole with a sleek satin dress. A sheer cover-up with embroidered designs is a great way to liven up the look of a simple dress—without totally hiding the dress itself. On a cool spring or fall day, pair a cotton dress with a corduroy blazer or a cable-knit poncho for extra warmth.

For instance, if you’re wearing a black dress, sew in a piece of delicate black lace to add modesty without sacrificing the dress’s alluring look. You can also use contrasting or complementary colors, like cream lace with a dark blue dress. You don’t need to cover the entire back of the dress with lace. For instance, if the back of the dress dips down to just above your rear, you might put in a panel that ends right above your waistline.

Illusion fabric is fine and stretchy, so it can be a challenge to sew it correctly. If you’re using a sewing machine, check the instructions to determine the right settings and needle to use for stretchy fabric. Go with sheer or nude fabric for a nearly invisible look, or black for a smokey, sultry result.

Choose a material in a contrasting color to add drama, or pick a matching color for a more seamless look. Wide belts or sashes make an especially flattering addition to empire-waist dresses, since they help create a more defined waistline. [12] X Research source

You can either bring your own materials or ask your tailor to recommend something. In the U. S. , tailoring alterations can cost anywhere from around $15 to $50, depending on the shop, the materials involved, and how complicated the alteration is. [14] X Research source Call around to some tailoring shops in your area to find one that fits your budget.

Low-back bras typically have shoulder straps that are longer than usual in the back, along with a very low back band. They also have an extra strap or crossed pair of straps that go around your waist to help keep the bra in place so that the back band doesn’t ride up. You can also get a convertible bra with straps that can be worn in different configurations, or buy extenders for your bra straps so you can tuck them out of sight.

Adhesive bras come in many levels of coverage and support. For minimal coverage, opt for basic pasties or nipple petals. You can also get adhesive bras that lace up in front to enhance your cleavage.

Each strip of tape will need to be at least 12 inches (30 cm) long. Make sure you can wrap the tape all the way around your breasts and extend it out slightly on each side. For extra comfort (especially when it comes time to pull the tape off!), put a cotton pad over each nipple underneath the tape.

Before you start sewing, pin the cups in place with safety pins. Try the dress on to make sure the cops are positioned correctly. Use loose stitches so that you don’t pucker the material of the cup or the dress. If your dress is lined, sew through just the lining and the cup, not the outer material of the dress. If there’s no lining, choose a thread that matches the color of your dress.

If you’re not sure whether your undies are visible, use a hand mirror to check or ask a friend to look for you. Choose seamless or no-show panties to prevent visible lines if you’re wearing a thin or form-fitting dress.

Alternatively, pick some attractive, lacy shapewear that can double as a modesty panel under your dress.