What Shoes to Wear with a Long Dress?

Wearing a long dress is very trendy. It's a staple piece to have in your wardrobe for every season. However, to avoid any fashion faux pas, it's important to choose how to showcase it effectively. The dress has the unique feature of being a complete outfit on its own. Of course, you can accessorise it as you like, but all you need to do is select a lovely pair of shoes to complete your style. So, for a beautiful outfit, what shoes should you wear with your long dress? This will largely depend on your personality and preferences. Will you choose a 100% feminine option with high heels, or will you go for a flat and comfortable model? Do you prioritise the look of a model or its practicality? In this article, we’ll share all our tips to help you decide.

Boots with or without heels for a bohemian style

With a bohemian dress and to emphasise your feminine side, you can pair it with heeled boots. Small suede boots or a lovely leather model can give you a vintage vibe. Some boots even lean towards a pin-up style. If you are petite, heeled shoes can elongate your silhouette, making you feel instantly more glamorous. You'll seem taller by a few centimetres. The height of the heels should provide comfort; you can wear very high heels if you're used to them. However, heels of two to three centimetres are enough to slim the silhouette and add a feminine touch. If you don’t enjoy walking in heels, opting for flats will be simpler and more enjoyable for you. High heels exude your femininity with flair.

Alternatively, you could choose a flat model. Leather boots, in black, brown, or red, for instance, will give you a rock'n'roll vibe. Boots adorned with fringes or colourful embroidery will add a whimsical bohemian touch. There are also boots in more original colours available. To spruce up a classic pair of boots, colourful laces will set you apart. Ultimately, it comes down to the impression you want to convey and your personality.

Sandals with a summer dress

While boots are perfect for the autumn-winter season, sandals will beautifully accompany your summer dress, giving you a chic look. Flat sandals are comfortable and suitable for long walks. If you choose to wear your dress for an evening out, heeled sandals will look delightful. The boho chic style offers quirky options with pompoms, colourful beads, or braided straps. However, you can also find more minimalist and discreet models. Simple mules provide a laid-back vibe and offer perfect comfort. In summer, footwear comes in colourful or neutral tones. If your outfit is understated, a very colourful model will liven it up. Conversely, a highly colourful or patterned dress can be complemented by neutral-coloured sandals. Flat sandals with a rope sole are trendy, reflecting a natural aesthetic.

Sneakers for a relaxed look

Sneakers with long dress

Wearing sneakers with a dress is far from a fashion mistake; it’s a choice of comfort and modernity. You exude an urban and trendy femininity. Pairing a dress with sneakers allows you to assert your non-conformist side. Instead of the expected small shoes, you surprise everyone. The range of sneaker models is incredibly diverse. If you want a bit of height while remaining comfortable, wedge sneakers are your best allies.

If the weather is mild, opt for a lovely canvas model. Want something whimsical? Then fabric sneakers featuring floral patterns and vibrant colours will celebrate the arrival of spring and lift your spirits. If you prefer a classic and sporty model, many specialised brands create very sleek and feminine options. Here’s a tip: some sneakers come with ribbons instead of laces. To make any pair of trainers more girly, replace the laces with 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, timeless, comfortable, and feminine, wear them with your dresses and skirts, whether long or short. Basic models embody simplicity and understated elegance. However, in recent years, designers have outdone themselves with creativity in this area. Often, they come adorned with a large bow, or a light satin flower, or even fringes and pom-poms for a boho chic touch. The colour options are so varied that it can be tough to choose. Bright tones coexist beautifully with browns and blacks. Red or polka dot ballet flats give you a pin-up look that pairs wonderfully with a similarly styled dress for an unabashed retro vibe. Meanwhile, a simple pair of ballet flats in beige, white, or black adorned with a few pearls will give you a more casual look. As for powder pink ballet flats, or those with a soft fabric flower, they are the favourite shoes of the romantic within you.

Your choice of shoes depends on your clothing style

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

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