What shoes go best with a red (or black, white, green...) dress?
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What shoes go best with a red (or black, white, green...) dress?

Stepping Into Style: Shoe Pairings for Dresses in Every Hue

When it comes to rocking a dress, the shoe game is just as crucial as the dress itself. Your choice of kicks can either elevate your outfit from "nice" to "showstopper" or leave it feeling a bit meh. Let’s dive into the best shoe pairings for some staple dress colors - red, black, white, green, and beyond - so you can strut confidently with that perfect finishing touch.

Red Dresses: Bold & Beautiful

A red dress screams confidence and passion, so your shoe choice should complement, not compete. Here are the go-to options:

  • Nude Heels or Sandals: These elongate your legs and let that fiery dress take center stage without clashing.
  • Classic Black Pumps: Timeless and chic, they add a bit of edge while keeping things elegant.
  • Metallics (gold or silver): If you’re aiming for glam, metallic shoes add that perfect shimmer and vibe.
  • White Sneakers: For a cool, casual twist, white sneakers keep it fresh and unexpected.
  • Red Heels: May seem tricky but usually works like a charm.

GIANVITO ROSSI Elle 85mm transparent-strap mules
455$ FARFETCH

gianvito rossi nude mules with red dressPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

PARIS TEXAS 105mm patent leather sandals
643$ FARFETCH

AQUAZZURA 50mm Amourose pumps
1245$ FARFETCH

aquazzuraPhoto source: farfetch.com (media policy).

Black Dresses: The Ultimate Blank Canvas

A black dress is a style powerhouse because it plays well with nearly anything. Shoes can define the mood:

  • Red Heels or Flats: Add a pop of color that instantly brightens your look.
  • Animal Print: Leopard or snake print shoes add playful sophistication.
  • Metallic Silver or Gold: Bring some luxe brightness for a night out.
  • Black Strappy Sandals: For a sleek, minimal vibe that keeps it classic.

A.EMERY The Heidi sandals
180$ FARFETCH

a.emery animal print sandalsPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

NENSI DOJAKA flower-detail 75mm sandals
387$ FARFETCH

nensi dojakaPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

KHAITE 45mm Mia pumps
700$ FARFETCH

khaite red shoesPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

White Dresses: Crisp & Clean

White dresses radiate fresh and summery vibes. The right footwear can take it anywhere from casual to glam:

  • Brown or Tan Sandals: Perfect for a boho or beachy feel.
  • Pastel Heels: Soft pinks or blues keep it delicate and pretty.
  • White Sneakers: For a sporty yet chic twist.
  • Red Heels: For a special occasion.
  • Black Sandals: Classy choice.
  • Metallic Flats or Heels: Elevate your look with some sparkle.

DEAR FRANCES 45mm leather mules
640$ FARFETCH

dear frances black sandalsPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

KHAITE 100mm Eva pumps
708$ FARFETCH

khaite pumpsPhoto source: farfetch.com (media policy).

ACNE STUDIOS panelled-design leather sneakers
580$ FARFETCH

acne studios sneakersPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

Green Dresses: Fresh & Flourishing

Green dresses are fabulous for a statement look with nature vibes. Here’s what pairs best:

  • Nude or Beige Shoes: Keep the focus on your dress and keep it earthy.
  • Brown, Cognac or Burgundy Leather Shoes: Adds warmth and pairs perfectly with autumn greens.
  • Animal Print: Adds accents.
  • Black Shoes: For a sharp contrast, especially with darker or emerald greens.

MIU MIU 55mm patent leather sandals
1250$ FARFETCH

miu miuPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

KHAITE Boden sandals
1280$ FARFETCH

khaite animal print sandalsPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

STUDIO AMELIA 90mm Vestige pumps
520$ FARFETCH

studio ameliaPhoto source: source unknown (media policy).

Tips for Matching Any Dress Color

  • Think about the occasion - heels for glam, flats or sneakers for casual cool.
  • When in doubt, match shoe undertones to your dress (warm hues with warm-toned shoes, cool with cool).
  • Don’t be afraid to add texture (like velvet, patent leather, or suede) or more colors  (especially if you like to experiment) to add visual interest.
  • Consider your skin tone for nude shoes - it’s all about the right shade to blend smoothly.

Dressing is all about fun, confidence, and expressing your flair. Whether you’re slipping on stilettos or rocking sneakers, remember: the right shoe should feel like it was made to walk with your style and your story.

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