What Shoes to Wear with a Summer Dress?

You love wearing summer dresses, but are wondering how to choose shoes that will complement them? Do you want to know which pair to wear with a fancy dress? Or maybe with a more casual one?

You're in the right place.

As a fashion enthusiast, I understand how important the choice of shoes is in defining a style. When you've found a lovely summer dress, it's only natural to want to wear it stylishly to enhance its beauty!

That’s why today I’m sharing all my tips on how to find shoes that perfectly match your summer outfits.

Once you've picked your summer dress, the type of shoes you choose will depend on its style and length. If your dress is short or knee-length, you can go for flat shoes or low heels: ballet flats, flat sandals, lightweight canvas sneakers, gladiator sandals, etc. For a dress that’s slightly longer, don’t hesitate to opt for wedges or heeled sandals to create a lovely silhouette. A pair of stilettos or chic bohemian sandals with delicate leather straps would be perfect to give your summer outfit a polished touch. For special occasions or if you’re aiming for an elegant style, consider wearing light-coloured or metallic shoes.

Want to know more? Keep reading to find out:

• Simple tips for choosing shoes that match your outfit,
• Which colours and materials of shoes to prefer based on your dress,
• When is it appropriate to wear open-toe shoes,
• A selection of perfect styles for a casual and chic outfit,
• And ideas for shoes that are suitable to wear with a smart summer dress.

How to Match Your Summer Dress with the Right Shoes?

Identify the Dress Style

Before you settle on a particular shoe style, take a moment to consider your dress: is it more dressed up or casual? Trendy and unique, or classic and understated? The answers to these questions should guide you in choosing your pair of shoes, which, as much as possible, should complement your dress nicely to create a balanced look.

Adjust to Its Length

There are three main types of summer dresses:

• mini: above the knee,
• midi: at knee level or just below,
• maxi: long to the ankle, or even lower.

To create a nice outfit, the rule is quite simple: the shorter your dress, the less mandatory the heels. This means that a mini or midi dress can be paired with flat shoes or even small heels.

If you prefer a long dress, opting for heeled shoes will help to visually elongate your legs, giving you a slimmer silhouette while adding a touch of elegance. If heels aren't your thing, you can also go for wedge sandals, which provide the same visual effect but offer the comfort of flat shoes.

Create Reminders and a Harmony of Colours

Some shoe colours go really well with a wide range of outfits: these include brown and cognac, which are great for pairing with dresses in the summer. Black shoes can also work, as long as the dress isn’t too light or in overly bright shades: in any case, if you choose this colour to wear with a delicate and feminine dress, opt for understated sandals with thin straps instead of flashy shoes.

👉 Also, take note of whether your dress (or the belt you plan to wear over it as an accessory) has any buckles or metallic details. If it does, feel free to match them with the buckles on your shoes, or even with some metallic shoes. Whether it's gold, silver, or even bronze, these shoes are perfect for showcasing your feet and elevating your look for the summer.

Choose the Right Material

Just like colour, the material your shoes are made from plays a crucial role in your style. Leather sandals are more durable and offer a chic look, while fabric shoes have a more casual and relaxed vibe. They also have the added advantage of keeping your feet cooler, which is greatly appreciated during hot weather.

🛑 If you need to walk a lot or wear your shoes for an extended period, try to avoid all plastic materials (like flip-flops, etc.) as much as possible. They tend to be uncomfortable, cause excessive sweating, and easily injure your feet. However, they are quite handy as spare shoes for going to the beach or lounging by the pool.

When can you wear open sandals with a summer dress?

Open-toed shoes are more summery, but they might not be suitable for a formal setting, especially at work if you have to meet clients, for instance.

On the contrary, most closed sandals are suitable for a more formal dress code. If you prefer to stay cooler, you can choose shoes that are open at the back only.

For a simple and chic look, feel free to choose neutral-coloured shoes that are quite basic and can easily match most of your outfits.

👉 If your shoes show off your toes, don't hesitate to apply some colourful nail polish that matches your dress. This little touch of elegance will truly elevate your outfit!

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4 Chic and Comfortable Casual Shoe Styles to Wear with a Dress This Summer

Are you looking for everyday shoes that are easy to wear? If so, check out our selection in the following lines!

Boho Flat Sandals

These pretty, simple shoes will look fantastic with a short or mid-length bohemian dress. They can also be paired with a long dress, but are more suited for holidays or a relaxing day out. With their slim straps, they highlight your feet without making them too warm!

👉 Check out our range of bohemian sandals right on our online store!

Gladiator Sandals

These uniquely styled sandals wrap around your ankles, adding a touch of elegance. They pair perfectly with a short dress and are a great alternative to heels. For a subtle and romantic style, opt for a shade of natural leather instead.

Black gladiator sandals are perfect for creating a sexy look, great for a night out, for instance.

Plain Sneakers

Wearing sneakers with a dress is super easy and very trendy these days! It’s a great way to stay comfortable while looking feminine and stylish. If you’re unsure about which pair to choose, I recommend going for plain white low-top sneakers, either in canvas or leather. They can elevate both long and short dresses, no matter your style.

👉 Check out all our tips on how to pair dresses with sneakers in our dedicated guide!

Espadrilles

Affordable and comfortable, espadrilles come in a variety of patterns and colours. There are even heeled ones for a slightly more chic look! With a short or mid-length summer dress, go for a pair of espadrilles in the same shade to create a casual outfit for heading to the beach or enjoying a lovely day on holiday.

Fringe Ankle Boots for a Confident Bohemian Chic Style

Want to showcase your hippie chic side? Don't hesitate to pair a bohemian maxi dress with leather ankle boots. Adding details like fringes, embroidery, or colorful beads will be perfect to complete your unique look!

This style is perfect for highlighting what makes you unique every day, or for achieving an exceptional look during a night out or a festival. 😉

3 Stylish Shoe Models for an Elegant Summer Outfit

Are you looking for stylish shoes to pair with a summer dress, whether it’s for a special occasion or to suit your personal style? Check out our tips and inspirations!

Open or Closed Heels

Summer is a season filled with many events: baptisms, weddings, birthday parties... perfect opportunities to dress up stylishly! To elevate a chic summer dress, you can opt for pretty patent heels in vibrant colours that will complement your summer outfit perfectly. They can be classic, matching the colour of your dress, or a bit more unique, featuring slim straps or colourful details.

Thin Strap Sandals

Just like high heels, a nice pair of simple leather sandals with thin straps will definitely be a reliable choice to complete a chic and well-dressed outfit. Choose a colour that matches your dress or your various accessories, and make sure your shoes fit well and are comfortable. 😉

Chic Bohemian Wedge Heels

Looking for a style that's both elegant and natural? If you're wearing a lovely flowy dress, don't hesitate to pair it with a nice pair of wedge sandals in leather, fabric, or even with a woven sole like espadrilles. This look goes perfectly with a long bohemian dress in white or pastel colours, which is very trendy!

I hope this article has helped you to find the perfect shoes to match your dress, so you can create an outfit that makes you feel beautiful this summer! Also, check out our wide range of chic bohemian dresses, to discover a style that enhances your beauty and truly reflects who you are!