Matching your shoes to your outfit can seem daunting, especially when it comes to pairing red heels with a black dress. With some basic guidelines, you can pull off this bold color combo with ease. In this article, we’ll cover tips on wearing red high heels with a black dress for different occasions and body types.
Quick Tips
- Opt for red heels in darker or muted shades like oxblood or burgundy rather than bright red.
- Match the shade of red to your skin tone – warm tones suit warm reds while cool tones match cooler reds.
- Add a red handbag or bold lip to tie the look together.
- Go for closed-toe pumps or ankle strap heels in matte or suede textures.
- Try lower heels like kitten heels or wedges for a more casual vibe.
Guidelines for Different Occasions
The occasion you are dressing for determines the style of red heel that will work best:
Formal Events
For formal evening events like black tie weddings or galas, opaque black stockings help tone down bright red heels. Stilettos add height and elegance. Accessorize with a red clutch or bright lipstick. Keep the heels classic – try peep toes or d’orsay styles.
Work Events
Limit heel height to 3 inches or less for work events. Closed-toe red pumps in a dark oxblood or burgundy shade are sophisticated. Patent leather or matte suede are safe textures. Pair with neutral hosiery and minimal accessories.
Casual Daytime
Casual daytime affairs like brunch calls for lower heels in red. Wedges, kitten heels, or block heels are comfy and cute. Go for ankle straps or Mary Janes. Wood, cork, or lucite heels add interest. Keep the rest of the look low-key.
Night Out
Have fun with bold red stilettos or platforms for a night out dancing. Metallics like red gold or red silver are eye-catching. Go for ankle straps or peep toes to show some skin. Complete with a red lip and mini purse.
Cocktail Parties
Aim for red heels with some embellishment or texture for cocktail parties, like satin bows, rhinestones, or lace. Heel height can vary from kitten heels to stilettos. Finish with sparkly jewelry. A neutral pedicure prevents clashing.
Tips for Different Body Types
Your body type should also guide your red heel choices when wearing a black dress:
Pear Shaped
Balance out wider hips with pointy-toed red heels. Ankle straps that cut across the ankle also create the illusion of proportion. Kitten or mid heels are most flattering.
Petite Frame
Petite girls can pull off sky-high red stilettos to add height. Peep toes or nude foot pads extend the leg line. Avoid chunky block heels or platforms to prevent overwhelm.
Curvy Figure
Curvy figures look great in red heels with some platform height to elongate the leg. Peep toes or d’orsay styles show off pretty feet. Thicker ankle straps add support and stability.
Athletic Build
Sculptural heels like wedges, mid-block heels or lucite add femininity to athletic builds. Shiny patent leather pumps streamline muscle tone. Kitten heels offer comfort and support.
Tall Frame
Extra height isn’t needed for tall girls. Opt for short kitten heels or low wedges in the 1-2 inch range. Ankle straps and pointed toes give the illusion of slightly shorter legs.
Do’s and Don’ts
Follow these do’s and don’ts when styling red heels with your LBD:
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Match cool-toned reds with cool skin tones | Wear bright fire engine red heels to formal events |
| Add a red handbag or lipstick | Go for chunky platforms or neon red heels |
| Choose matte heels for daytime | Pair super high stilettos with casual day dresses |
| Go for ankle straps if you have wider feet | Pick red suede heels on a rainy day |
| Stick to 3 inches or shorter heels for work | Wear casual red wedges to formal black tie affairs |
Conclusion
Red high heels can make a stylish statement paired with a black dress when some general guidelines are followed. Take into account the occasion, time of day, and your body type when selecting the right shade, style, heel height and texture. Stay away from bright fire-engine tones and chunky casual silhouettes for formal events. Accessorize to tie the look together rather than overpower it. With the right balance, red heels add an unexpected pop of color and femininity to any LBD.
