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 So Should I Buy This? Facebook group, 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 to wear with dresses this summer. As such, we can conclude that there are seven 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.
Style Notes: Anne-Victoire’s elegant and chic block-heel shoes will bestow any dress with easy French flair. This Gallic girl favours wearing them with midi, often printed, dresses.
You’ll wear these to every wedding this year and beyond, I’m sure.
I can’t believe how premium these look.
These are a timeless classic.
Style Notes: You needn’t mimic Lily Allen 100% of the time—trainers and dresses look their coolest when you opt for streamlined silhouettes paired with chunky running shoes.
A go-with-everything colourway.
The chunkier, the better.
A classic that will go with just about every dress in your wardrobe.
Style Notes: While black boots also look excellent with dresses (more on that later), tan and nude boots serve as a welcome change. Their softer hue makes them less harsh when worn with pastel or white dresses.
Add a western feel to any frock with these suede boots.
These would also look good with leggings and a blazer.
Knee-high boots are everywhere rn.
Style Notes: Slingbacks are an eternally chic option that fashion people have been reaching for more frequently in recent months. The refined shape and classic silhouette instantly elevates even the simplest dresses.
Make like Lorna and style with a classic knit dress.
This pair comes in an array of shades.
I’ve been dreaming about this pair.
Style Notes: When it comes to which shoes to wear with dresses, Mary Janes are a popular choice. This trending footwear gives every outfit a vintage feel, especially if you style them with a ’30s-inspired tea dress, like Rachael of Bubbly Aquarius.
I love this nude pair. Wear with monochrome looks or bright, bold hues.
We’re big fans of the platform shoe trend.
Such a beautiful hue.
Style Notes: Chunky track-sole boots defined our winter wardrobes, but don’t pack them away just yet. With British weather consistently unpredictable you’ll appreciate this pair year round. Right now, Instagram’s most stylish dressers are donning them with just about every dress you can think of.
These have been favourites for a couple of years now.
Well done, Arket.
Such a great go-with-everything pair.
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 linen dresses for a minimalist effect.
A summer staple.
You’ll find every excuse to wear these.
Wedge sandals are having a moment.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: 30 Easy Linen Dresses That Will Keep You Looking Chic All Summer
