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.
1. BLOCK HEELS
Style Notes: Sylvie's chic block-heel shoes will bestow any dress with easy French flair. This Gallic girl favours wearing them with minimalist midi dresses. Simple, yet so effective.
Shop Block Heels:
You'll wear these all spring and summer long.
I can't believe how premium these look, and they also come in nude and silver.
These are a timeless classic.
2. TRAINERS
Style Notes: In my opinion, trainers and dresses look their coolest when you opt for a simple dress paired with chunky running shoes or the most recent popular style, brights!
Shop Trainers:
Coloured Adidas are selling out so fast, but these are still in stock—grab them while you can.
The chunkier, the better.
A high fashion classic that will go with just about every dress in your wardrobe.
3. TAN OR BEIGE BOOTS
Style Notes: While black boots also look excellent with dresses (especially in winter), tan and nude boots serve as a welcome change in spring. Their softer hue makes them less harsh when worn with pastel or white dresses.
Shop Tan Boots:
These would look so good with a long flowing skirt or with blue jeans.
These would look so good with mini or maxi dresses.
These are just so sleek.
4. SLINGBACKS
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.
Shop Slingbacks:
Style with a classic LBD or a tailored set.
While these come in an array of shades, this cream shade is undoubtedly the most versatile.
I've been dreaming about this pair.
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.
Mesh flats continue to be a major trend.
I must have these.
6. FISHERMAN SANDALS
Style Notes: It's the retro sandal style that continues to come back in style. Thanks to The Row, this year the 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 Track-Sole Boots:
This modern classic is selling out fast—if you're looking to make the investment, grab them while you can.
This brown style would pair particularly well with white dresses.
The stitching detail and the slightly chunky sole makes this pair feel extra elevated.
7. FINE-STRAP HEELS
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.
For those who like the extra height.
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 goes one step further and adds cool-girl white socks
Shop Loafers:
I love the long, sleek silhouette. of these minimalist loafers.
Chunky pairs look effortlessly cool.
Such a classic.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
