What Shoes to Wear with a Maxi Dress?

Wearing a long dress is very on-trend. It’s a staple piece to have in your wardrobe for any season. However, to avoid fashion missteps, it's important to choose how to showcase it effectively. The beauty of a dress is that it can stand alone as a complete outfit. Sure, you can accessorize it to match your mood, but all you really need is a nice pair of shoes to complete your style. So, what shoes should you wear with your long dress? It mainly depends on your character and preferences. Will you opt for a 100% feminine look with high heels, or would you prefer a flat, comfortable model? Do you prioritize the look of the shoes or their practicality? In this article, we share all our tips to help you make your decision.

Boots with or without heels for a bohemian style

If you want to enhance your feminine side with a bohemian dress, you can pair it with heeled boots. Small suede boots or a beautiful leather model will give you a retro vibe. Some boots even have a pin-up style. If you're petite, heeled shoes will elongate your silhouette, making you feel instantly more elegant. You’ll appear taller by a few centimetres. Just ensure the heel height is comfortable. You can wear very high heels if you're used to them, but two to three centimetres is often sufficient to slenderize your figure and provide a feminine silhouette. If heels aren’t your thing, go for a simpler and more comfortable option. High heels add a touch of femininity with class.

You can also opt for flat models. Leather boots in black, brown, or red, for example, can add a rock 'n' roll touch. Boots adorned with fringes or colourful embroidery will bring a whimsical bohemian flair. There are also uniquely coloured boots available. To spice up a classic pair, choose colourful laces that reflect your personality. Ultimately, it's about the image you want to project and your personal style.

Sandals with a summer dress

While boots are perfect for autumn and winter, sandals are a great match for your summer dress. Plus, they give you a chic look. Flat sandals are comfortable and ideal for long walks. If you choose to wear your dress for an evening out, heeled sandals will look stunning. The boho chic trend offers fun designs with pom-poms, colourful beads, or braided straps. However, you can also find more minimalist models. Simple mules offer a relaxed vibe and provide perfect comfort. In the summer, footwear comes in vibrant colours or neutral tones. If your outfit is plain, a bright model will add some pizzazz. Conversely, a very colourful or patterned dress can be complemented by neutral-tone sandals. Flat sandals with a rope sole are trendy for their natural look.

Sneakers for a casual look

Sneakers with long dress

Wearing sneakers with a dress is far from a fashion faux pas. It’s the option of comfort and modernity. You showcase an urban and trendy femininity. Combining a dress with sneakers lets you express your non-conformist side. Instead of the expected cute shoes, you surprise with a fresh take. There is a wide variety of sneaker designs available. If you want some height while staying comfortable, wedge sneakers are your best friends.

In warmer weather, opt for a nice canvas model. Want something different? Then, choose fabric sneakers with floral patterns and vibrant colours to celebrate the arrival of spring and give you a boost of energy. If you prefer a classic and sporty look, specialized brands often create very sleek and feminine products. A tip: some sneakers come with ribbons instead of laces. To make any pair of sneakers girly, simply swap the laces for a satin ribbon in a colour that matches your long dress. Guaranteed effect!

Ballet flats: simplicity and elegance

Ballet flats go with all outfits, which is why we love them. Simple, essential, comfortable, and feminine, wear them with your dresses and skirts, long or short. Basic models embody simplicity and understated elegance. However, in recent years, designers have added their originality to this style. Often, they feature a big bow, a light satin flower, or fringes and pom-poms for a boho chic vibe. With so many colour options, it’s hard to choose. Flashy tones coexist beautifully with browns and blacks. Red or polka dot flats give you a pin-up look that pairs wonderfully with a similarly styled dress for a retro vibe. Conversely, a simple pair of flats in beige, white, or black adorned with a few beads can lend a more casual look to a solid-coloured dress. As for powder pink flats with a soft fabric flower, they are the go-to choice for the romantic side in you.

The choice of your shoes depends on your fashion style

The choice of model to pair with your long dress depends on the look you wish to achieve:

  • For a perfectly feminine silhouette, prioritize heeled styles: boots, ankle boots, sandals. From bohemian to retro chic to classic, they suit all women;
  • If you want a more urban look, go for sneakers; the colour and shape will set the tone: sleek and feminine, in canvas and practical, or classic for sporty types. They energize an outfit;
  • If you want to exude a rock vibe, opt for black or red boots or ankle boots;
  • Flat models like ballet flats ensure comfort and can be tailored to your personality: whimsical, classic, casual, or romantic.
Need some inspiration? Explore the ideal shoes to complement a long dress for a chic, effortless look. Explore Our Footwear Inspirations