Whether you can wear a black dress with red shoes to a wedding is a common fashion dilemma. The short answer is – it depends! There are a few factors to consider when deciding if this color combination is appropriate for a wedding. In this article, we’ll explore the conventional wisdom around wearing black and red together, examine when it may or may not be suitable, and provide tips for pulling off this bold look at a wedding when done thoughtfully.
The significance of black dresses and red shoes
First, let’s break down the meaning behind a black dress and red shoes separately.
Black dresses are ubiquitous at weddings. A black dress is classic, elegant, and flattering. It’s a safe choice that unlikely to offend. However, black is also sometimes associated with mourning and can be seen as a somber color.
Red shoes add a bold pop of color. Red symbolizes confidence, passion, and excitement. However, red is also an attention-grabbing shade associated with seduction. Red shoes stand out.
When paired together, a black dress and red shoes creates an eye-catching contrast. It’s a dramatic fashion statement. The look can project a woman who is stylish, edgy, and confident. Or, it may come across as provocative or in poor taste, depending on the context.
Appropriateness for weddings
Whether or not a black dress and red shoes are wedding-appropriate depends on several factors:
Bride’s dress code and preferences
First and foremost, take your cues from the bride. Many brides provide a recommended dress code on the wedding invite – black tie optional, cocktail attire, formal, semi-formal, etc. If the bride has a conservative style, avoid black and opt for a lighter color instead.
Time of day
At a daytime wedding, especially an outdoor wedding, darker colors like black and red can feel heavy and intense. Lighter and more muted colors are better suited for day. Save black dresses with red shoes for evening weddings when the bold contrast works beautifully.
Venue formality
A black and red combo aligns best with formal or semi-formal venues like a hotel ballroom, church ceremony, country club, or evening museum wedding. The look would be too dramatic for a laid back, casual wedding – for example at a backyard barbecue or beach venue. Match the formality of your outfit to the formality of the event.
Your role at the wedding
If you are a guest, wearing this color combo is fine as long as you complement the bride and the event style. However, immediate family members and members of the bridal party should check with the bride before wearing black and red. You don’t want to clash with the wedding colors or stand out more than the bride.
Accessorizing and styling
When pairing a black dress with red shoes, accessorize thoughtfully. Avoid red jewelry or handbags which can look costume-y. Stick to minimal, metallic, or neutral accessories to balance the bold colors. Make sure the red shoes match the formality of the dress – stilettos for evening, low pumps for daytime.
Guidelines
Here are some general guidelines on wearing black and red to a wedding:
| Situation | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Daytime outdoor wedding | Avoid black & red, choose lighter colors |
| Evening indoor formal wedding | Black & red is likely fine |
| Casual garden wedding | Skip the black dress and red heels |
| Bride requested “cocktail attire” | Short black dress with red heels appropriate |
| You’re in the bridal party | Ask the bride before wearing black & red |
| Attention-grabbing venue like a ballroom | Dramatic black & red combo works well |
The bottom line: when in doubt, opt for a safer color palette. But if the wedding style and venue call for it, a black dress with red statement shoes can be fashionable and appropriate.
Tips for wearing black and red to a wedding
If you decide this color pairing is suitable for the particular wedding context, keep these tips in mind:
– Stick to one statement color. Avoid additional red accessories.
– Choose a dress silhouette that complements your body type. An ill-fitting black dress can look unsophisticated.
– Make sure the red shoes work with the formality of the dress – no stilettos with a sundress.
– Accessorize with neutral metals or nude shoes rather than more red.
– Add a pop of color with your makeup instead of red lips – try a bold pink or purple.
– Carry a metallic bag like gold, rose gold or silver rather than red.
– Skip the flashy rhinestones – opt for classic pumps or sleek heels in red.
– Get a pedicure matching your red shoes – it adds a subtle surprise when you cross your legs.
– Confidence is key – walk tall in your black and red. It is a bold look, so own it!
Do’s and don’ts
Here are a few specific do’s and don’ts when wearing black and red to a wedding:
DO:
– Wear black and red to an evening, formal wedding
– Choose a short black cocktail dress for a semi-formal wedding
– Check with the bride if you’re in the bridal party before wearing black & red
– Stick to solids – a red dress with black stripes can look juvenile
– Carry a silver, gold or nude handbag rather than red
– Add a third color like white or pink to soften the bold contrast
DON’T:
– Wear a long black ballgown with red heels to a garden picnic wedding
– Pair a red cocktail ring and clutch with your black and red outfit
– Wear loud red lipstick, eyeshadow and nails – too costume-y
– Choose a low cut, tight fitted black dress – keep it tasteful
– Show up in red stilettos with a short sequin black dress if the invite says “casual attire”
– Add a red faux flower or big red hat as accessories
– Attempt to outshine the bride
The key is to balance the drama of black and red with elegance and good taste for the occasion.
Conclusion
Black dresses with red shoes can be wedding-appropriate when styled carefully for the occasion. For formal evening weddings, this color pairing is both fashionable and bold. But take cues from the bride, the formality of the event, time of day, and your role. During daylight hours or casual weddings, avoid the harsh contrast.
With the right styling, confidence, and consideration of the event, a black and red combo allows you to stand out while still honoring the bride. But when in doubt, opt for lighter, safer colors for weddings. The opportunity to wear black and red together will arise at cocktail parties or evenings out. By following these tips, you can look both chic and appropriate when sporting this eye-catching color pairing.
