If there's one thing we know, it's that Who What Wear readers are obsessed with two things: dresses and shoes. These two subjects always dominate our social feeds, and now that we find ourselves on the cusp of bare-leg season (yes, really!) they're proving to be all the more practical.
While we're quick to cover the latest trends across both wardrobe items, we thought we'd go back to basics and have a look at the shoes that always work with dresses. As such, we can conclude that there are eight key footwear styles that seem to suit dresses more than other shoe types.
Chances are you'll already own some (if not all) of the shoes on our list, but that's the beauty of taking a step back from the noise of the trends and instead focusing on timeless buys. Keep scrolling to see the shoes to wear with dresses this season and beyond.
The 8 Best Shoes to Wear With Dresses
1. Heeled Slingbacks
Style Notes: While many shoes go with dresses, all of which we'll get to in a moment, there's no denying how chic and refined they look when paired with a slingback heel (or flat for that matter). The strap makes them look daintier than a fully closed style, which loans itself well to more fluid or lightweight dresses.
Shop Heeled Slingbacks:
This tan colourway is incredibly versatile.
These also come in an on-trend butter yellow hue.
They might look statement, but leopard print is considered to be a timeless classic.
2. Trainers
Style Notes: In my opinion, trainers and dresses look their coolest when you opt for a less fussy trainer—think sleek, retro styles that don't fight to be the centre of attention but, instead, work together to create a relaxed look.
Shop Trainers:
Adidas Taekwondo trainers are a key player this season.
Black trainers don't get much sleeker than this.
These already sold out in silver—I see the same outcome for this neutral pair.
3. Knee Boots
Style Notes: Ankle boots look great with jeans and trousers but it's knee boots I recommend wearing with dresses. Tall enough to look sleek and streamlined under midis, whilst adding edge to minis, this is the perfect option for days when flip flops just aren't.
Shop Knee Boots:
Suede pairs work well with dresses too as they look and feel softer in the overall look.
I've been dreaming about this mock-croc pair for months.
Don't be fooled—their neutral colour palette means these boots go with so much.
4. Mules
Style Notes: Mules are an eternally chic option that fashion people have been reaching for more frequently in recent months. Sharing the same sentiment as slingbacks, the lack of a back of the shoe makes mules look less clunky against some lighter dresses, instantly elevating them in the process. Consider closed-toe styles for year-round appeal.
Shop Mules:
An exceptional colour.
These look so expensive IRL.
These will look just as good with jeans and full skirts.
5. Mary Janes
Style Notes: When it comes to which shoes to wear with dresses, Mary Janes are a popular choice. The heeled styles gives you a vintage feel but flat versions are having such a moment right now.
Shop Mary Janes:
I love these in cream, but they also come in plenty of other tempting hues.
Choose your favourite hue—there's lots of them!
Mesh Mary Janes are set to be a huge summer trend.
6. Fisherman Sandals
Style Notes: It's the retro sandal that continues to come back in style. Thanks to The Row, caged flat sandals have become a bonafide fashion essential. Luckily, there are plenty of high street options that provide the minimalist, classic look without the hefty designer price tag.
Shop Fisherman Sandals:
This modern classic is selling out fast—if you're looking to make the investment, grab them while you can.
These look so much more expensive than they are thanks to the clean lines and minimal gold buckle.
If black isn't your thing, brown suede will give a softer finish.
7. Fine-Strap Sandals
Style Notes: Having been the shoes a couple of seasons ago, fine-strap sandals are set to make a strong comeback this year. As they're the perfect antidote to statement outfits, it's little wonder influencers keep wearing them with punchy print midi dresses to make sure all eyes are on the dress.
Shop Strappy Heels:
These are unbelievably elegant.
You'll find every excuse to wear these.
Straps so thin they barely exist.
8. Loafers
Style Notes: Adding a preppy feel to any dress style, you can always count of a pair of sleek loafers to compliment a great dress. Emmanuelle Koffi goes one step further and adds cool-girl white socks
Shop Loafers:
These new-in loafers are going to fly, I know it.
Nothing says "classic" like a Gucci horsebit loafer.
So sleek, this is the pair to save for if you're a minimalist.
