Dresses are one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can own. They’re perfect for almost any occasion and can completely change your look with little effort. But what if you’re wearing a dress and don’t know what shoes to wear with it?
Worry no more—we have some great ideas for shoe styles to wear with dresses in 2021!
Heels
Heels are always a good choice when it comes to dressing up. You can go high or low, depending on how formal or casual your event is. If you want to make a statement, go with platform heels in bright colors or bold patterns. If you want something more subtle, try a classic black pump or bootie.
Flats
Flats are another alternative that will add some height but keep things comfortable at the same time. You can choose from many different styles like ballet flats, wedges, booties, or even sandals if you’d like! Just make sure they’re not too loud—you don’t want them standing out too much from the rest of your outfit!
Pumps and Booties
Shoes to wear with dresses 2021
1. Vince Camuto Ableen Pump, $79.99 at DSW
To go with your little black dress, you simply must have a tried-and-true black pump. The pointed toe and wide heel make this pair a little different (and easier to walk in!), and they’d look great with bare legs or tights.Vince Camuto Ableen Pump, $79.99 at DSW
2. Vince Camuto Karala Pointed Toe Pump, $99 at Nordstrom
If you need a black pump to go with more formal workwear, this pair delivers while staying a little playful and sexy thanks to the tapered heel. Vince Camuto Karala Pointed Toe Pump, $99 at Nordstrom
3. Marc Fisher Carline 3 Pump, $59.99 at DSW
Likewise, sometimes that little black dress needs a pop of color and these Fuschia pumps are just that. The side cutouts and skinny heels make these great for a night out. Marc Fisher Carline 3 Pump, $59.99 at DSW
4. Journee Foster Pump, $59.99 at DSW
When black pumps are too harsh, navy can be a subtle way to complete a dress outfit. The criss-cross straps and block heels keep these shoes feeling fresh.Journee Foster Pump, $59.99 at DSW
5. Naturalizer Teresa Platform Pump, $110 at Nordstrom
Any season, any dress—every wardrobe needs a pair of trusty nude pumps. The low platform and cushioned footbed on this pair ensure that your feet stay happy. Naturalizer Teresa Platform Pump, $110 at Nordstrom
6. LifeStride Gallery Pump, $79.99 at DSW
Pumps tend to lend themselves best to winter outfits, but this light, flirty pair in a bone-white will complement a summer dress beautifully. The elastic stretch bands mean no pinching and the foam footbed provides a cushion.LifeStride Gallery Pump, $79.99 at DSW
Open-Toe Heels
7. Kelly & Katie Hailee Sandal, $44.99 at DSW
A lot of cold-weather dresses can easily do double duty in the warmer months by just changing out the shoe. A nude pair of open-toed heels work with everything from that black pencil dress to a more flouncy floral number. Kelly & Katie Hailee Sandal, $44.99 at DSW
8. Mix No. 6 Aliciana Sandal, $49.99 at DSW
The nude note applies to evening wear as well. The trio of skinny straps and metallic sheen of these heels are perfect for a cocktail party or wedding. Mix No. 6 Aliciana Sandal, $49.99 at DSW
9. Paily Raffia Heels, $125 at Dolce Vita
Raffia isn’t a common shoe material but paired with this beloved silhouette from Dolce Vita, it makes a great heel for daytime or evening dresses, especially when you’re going for a bit of that tropical vibe. Paily Raffia Heels, $125 at Dolce Vita
10. Schutz Victorie Slide Sandal, $118 at Nordstrom
What makes these slide-ons such a match for dresses is that the cork block heel is super sophisticated, while the clear straps ensure they’ll work with any color or style of dress. Schutz Victorie Slide Sandal, $118 at Nordstrom
11. Cosmic Platform, $135 at Aerosoles
This sunny yellow platform would work well with a sundress, but because of the suede fabric, it can easily pair with a fall outfit, too. The platform heel adds a bit of a retro feel.Cosmic Platform, $135 at Aerosoles
12. A New Day Sonora Heels, $24.99 at Target
To keep black heels light enough for summer dresses, choose a design that’s strappy and minimal—like this very affordable pair from Target. A New Day Sonora Heels, $24.99 at Target
Related: Best Wedding Guest Dresses
Wedges
13. Wedge, $115 at Soludos
Known for their espadrilles, Soludos’ wedges are perfect no matter what your heel comfort, as they come in 2.75″, 3.5″, and 4″. Plus, the simple style works with both casual and more formal dresses. Wedge, $115 at Soludos
14. Willowbrook Wedge, $99 at Aerosoles
Just like your favorite pair of jeans can pair with almost anything, so can these denim-hued wedges from comfortable-shoe brand Aerosoles. The two-inch cork wedge is both stylish and practical for walking around. Willowbrook Wedge, $99 at Aerosoles
15. Vince Camuto Brissia Wedge Mule, $110 at Nordstrom
If you’re not afraid of the high heel, these jute wedges are neutral enough to go with a variety of dress styles but fashionable enough to give an outfit that extra spice.
