Tips To Match Shoes With The Dress That Any Girl Should Know
This accessory can make or break your outfit; so know the types and memorize the tips.
Keicia Shanta is a fashion expert with over a decade of experience. She started her blog FashionCrush in 2012 with the plan of just talking about her hunt for trendy fashion finds that don’t break the bank. That blog quickly grew into much more with her first editorial fashion collaboration with southern retail chain Belk.
Read full bio of Keicia Shanta
Pratima Ati is a postgraduate in International Business from Staffordshire University. After working in Marketing and Business Development for a few years, she jumped ship to pursue two things she loved – fashion and writing.
Read full bio of Pratima Ati
Experience: 3 yearsAsmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.
Read full bio of Asmita De
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team
“A shoe has much more to offer..than just to walk.” – Christian Louboutin
Diamonds are a woman’s best friend they say. Actually, shoes are! If you were to choose between a diamond ring or fifty pairs of shoes? What will you pick? Don’t think so hard, the answer is obvious. If you ask me, I’d go with the latter and sorry there are no prizes for guessing (didn’t see that coming?). And, I know most women would trade their diamond for a closet full of shoes. And I also know that we are made fun of for the same reason, mostly because men don’t understand the mind mapping and brainstorming we do to match our shoes with the dress.
Yes, there’s a lot more there is than that meets the eye, and yes I’m here to talk all about it. It’s no rocket science; you just need to get the basics right. So here’s everything you need to know about ‘How to match your shoes with the dress.’
Ace The Look- Colors: Pair bold and patterned clothes with beige or cream shoes and a denim dress or jeans and a shirt with deep purple, bold orange, or metallic blue shoes.
- Dress Length: Pair short dresses with high heels, mid-calf dresses with wedges, and maxi or knee-length dresses with flats for an elegant look.
- Occasion: Pair a short skirt or tight jeans with heels or pumps for formal events and a maxi or cocktail dress with flats or wedges for casual occasions.
- Maintenance: Clean peep toes with a cloth thrice a week and suede pumps with a suede brush twice a week as they tend to accumulate more dust and dirt in the toe area.
In This Article
Types of Shoes
The word ‘shoes’ mean differently to men and women. Let’s park the men for now and see everything that falls under the category for us women and also how to style them.
1. Peep toes
The easiest way to do this is to remember that peep-toe shoes go well with bare legs. So, any dress that is either short or knee-length will be a good match. If you’re not comfortable in stilettos, go with wedges, and they can be worn with casual wear too. Try the flat peep toes look for opaque leggings or jeggings with tops that come till the hip.
2. Pumps
Pumps just translate to urban and chic, meaning any outfit with a chic appeal will invariably be a good match. Styles like pantsuits, pencil skirts, cigarette pants and long formal dresses, etc., you get the idea, don’t you? Pumps are one of the most versatile types of heels, making them perfect for various looks. Having said that, short dresses with or without sheer stocking look equally great with these. In winters, trench coats or long fur jackets with skinny jeans take this look to the next level.
3. Stilettos
How different are the pumps from stillettos you ask? I was not sure either! Let me tell you they are not very different. Pumps are high heels which are closed, while everything else in high heels fall under this category. These go with pretty much everything—be it formal, casual or party wear.
4. Lower Heels
If you’re one of those who has a love-hate relationship with heels, lower block or kitten heels are your best bet that comes closest to giving you the satisfaction of wearing heels. Meet in the middle between the two and get shoes with a tad bit heel. If you’re looking for something that complements your office wear, this is again your savior. It gives you a nice elevated look and spruces up the look for you.
5. Boots
What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of boots? Winter? Now, that is stereotyping it! Because boots are no more than (just) winter wonders. Yes, they add to the charm during the fall season, but they can do more than that. Sport the ankle-length, knee-length, or over-the-knee ones with a leather jacket and jeans, short dresses or long dresses, cape, skinny jeans, etc. You could probably try anything without forcing it too much. Your choices are limitless.
6. Gladiators
From being a complicated piece of fashion accessory to a must-have in every fashionista’s shoe closet, these have come a long way. Nude ankle length sandals are your safest bet and matches most dresses. When I say most dresses—it means something that ends near the calves preferably. The knee length ones with tiable strings go perfectly with boho-inspired dresses and shorts, or also with long dresses with knee length, perhaps. It’s worth mentioning that you can avoid them if you have chunky legs or go with the ones with thicker straps.
7. Ballerinas
Ballerinas and loafers are a blessing in disguise and need no introduction. They go with any dress whatsoever and can never fail you. You can either go with contrast or matching colors, and one dark shade goes with everything. So invest in a pair of Tory Burch or Gucci, and you’re sorted.
8. Slip On Shoes
Slip ons were mommy pants of shoes. Shoes that were once considered boring, dated and everything not cool. And, it didn’t take too long to prove us all wrong. Even crocs were considered that when they made their debut. Cut to now, these are considered stylish, comfortable and urbane. Just as the name goes slide them on and you’re sorted. You have neon and fast colors that are such fun. If you can pull them off, go with it. Slip ons and long/short summer dresses are a thing now, amongst many others.
9. Running Shoes
Trainers or running shoes, whatever you call them have been most sought-after for their comfort, but now that has changed too. You just need to deal with them fashionably. Don’t shy away from trying the vibrant ones or fast colors, they are the next big thing according to fashion bloggers. They make for great airport looks, hike with friends, running or just about anything.
Trivia10. Flatform Sandals
Born in the 70s, these have made a steadfast comeback recently. Thick soles that elevate you just the right amount, but do not tip you off like the other typical heels. They’re ideal for sundresses, shorts, or denim skirts. These give you the style and height of heels combined with the comfort of flats.
11. Chunky Trainer
The chunky trainer trend might have appeared a fleeting thing, but they have secured their spot in the fashion realm with their “ugly-chic” aesthetic. Pair them with skinny jeans and a crop top, or wear them with a casual denim dress for a playful vibe.
12. Block Heels
The block heel is your best bet for when you want height and are looking to make a fashion statement but with some level of comfort. These shoes are very versatile and can be easily styled with jeans, cropped pants, summer dresses, midi skirts, suit pants, and even lehengas!
Choosing the right shoe style can transform your entire look. For example, pairing gladiator sandals with a casual sundress creates a relaxed, boho vibe, perfect for brunch with your girl gang or just another lazy day out. On the other hand, swapping those sandals for a pair of sleek stilettos instantly adds a touch of sophistication, making the same dress suitable for a more formal event. Whether you are aiming for casual or chic style, your choice of shoes can impact the vibe of your outfit, allowing you to dress up or down with ease.
Keep reading to learn about the best shoe and outfit color combinations that will help you stand out.
Key Takeaways
- From pumps to boots, gladiators, ballerinas, and more, footwear types are certainly innumerable now!
- Nude ankle-length sandals can be the best go-to footwear to match all sorts of dresses.
- Black goes with everything, so opt for staple black footwear for an elevated look.
- Make a style statement with animal-printed footwear as well as for a classy look.
Color Combinations
When choosing the perfect shoe color, understanding the fashion color wheel can be your best friend. It helps you create harmonious or striking contrasts, ensuring your look is on point.
1. Blacks
There is not much of a surprise element here, but black goes with everything absolutely. So, invest in a few pairs of black strappy sandals. Boots, stilettos, pumps or wedges these come a long way and will be your rescue rangers on a rainy day. Or if it’s your first pair of a model you’re venturing into black it is!
2. Nudes
Have you heard of this before? Nudes are known to give your feet an elongated look. It sounds lame isn’t it? It might not in the literal sense, but fashion is all about creating an illusion and make-believe. These were added to the shoe closet staple list a long time ago, and you should get them if you haven’t already. Go for nudes if your dress is heavily embellished or swanky to bring a balance unless you want it to add to the sparkle.
3. Matching
The fashion rules are changing. Gone are the days when it was considered uber cool to match every single detail of your dressing. So matching your shoes with the dress, unless it’s black is not-so-uber-cool anymore. Go for it by all means but do not overdo it, as it’s a trend with one leg at the exit gate. Complementing colors are a big yes!
4. Color Blocking
I’ll tell when color blocking should be your go-to. If you’re the kind who likes matching your accessories, this works best for you. It needs an eye for details and shows class like nothing ever does. The idea is to choose an outfit and go with contrast colors for all the other accessories. Shoes play a pivotal role in the contrast game! You can get as interesting, whacky or stylish as you want and wear it with attitude.
5. Prints
A style statement with animal prints is big and elevate your look instantly. Imagine wearing a simple black T-shirt, skinny jeans and a pair of printed sandals or an LBD with the same. It’s an impeccable combination. But do not overdo the entire outfit with these, if your sandals are printed let everything be muted and subdued. Prints and patterns are a huge hit, don’t miss out on these!
TriviaAnd, as a final checklist, here are the Dos & Don’ts, before we let you go
Dos And Don’ts
| Dos | Don’ts |
| Go with contrasting or complementing colors. | Match from head to toe. |
| Light colored dress with light sandals, dark ones with dark colors. | Mix dark shoes with light-colored outfits. |
| Blacks, blues, browns and gray for professional looks. | Do red, suede and swanky colors with formals. |
| Invest in a pair of good shoes. | Go for style over comfort. |
| Nudes for sequined/embellished dresses | Wear sparkly shoes over sparkly dresses. |
| Take seasons into consideration. | Wear whites and flats in monsoon, and boots in summer. |
Infographic: Types Of Shoes To Wear With Your Dresses
It’s not always easy to make a decision when it comes to getting the perfect pair of shoes that match your outfit. If you make the wrong choice, your entire appearance could be ruined. Therefore, choosing the appropriate style of shoes is crucial. However, it’s simpler said than done. But do not fret.
Check the infographic below to understand better the various shoe styles you can wear with dresses. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
When it comes to buying our shoes, we are truly spoiled for choice. From peep toes to pumps, stilettos, boots, gladiators, and more, we have a wide range of options to choose from. So, if you wonder what shoes to wear with dresses, this article will be of great help. But before anything else, pay utmost attention to your comfort. You do not want to wear a pair of shoes that gives you major aches later in the day. So, make sure you try them out and check if you can walk confidently without the fear of hurting yourself. After all, knowing how to dress classy is not just about the style, it is also about feeling comfortable and poised in whatever you wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What flat shoes can you wear with dresses?
For casual wear, go with basic ballet flats or any classic fashion sneakers. Pointed-toe slides or dressy flats are suitable for any formal occasion.
Can I wear ankle boots with a dress?
Yes. Ankle boots look stylish when worn with a dress or any maxi skirt.
Is it OK to wear flats with a formal dress?
If you are the one who just loves being comfy, you can wear flats with a formal dress. You can also go for slingback mules, platform shoes, or stylish espadrilles.
Can you wear closed-toe shoes with a gown?
Yes. Closed-toe shoes look fabulous with a gown.
Can you wear boots with a dress?
Yes. It is OK to wear boots of different heights with dresses and different skirt lengths.
What shoes should I wear with a cocktail dress?
Opt for classic pumps, strappy heels, or sleek ankle boots to elevate the look of your cocktail dress. If you aim for comfort, chic flats or stylish block heels can keep the outfit formal and polished.
Illustration: How To Match Your Shoes With The Dress - Tips Every Girl Should Know
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Selecting the ideal shoes for your outfit can be tough sometimes. This video guide will help you learn the secrets of matching footwear with different outfits and elevate your fashion game effortlessly. Click play now!
Read full bio of Keicia Shanta
Read full bio of Pratima Ati
Read full bio of Asmita De
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.