White dresses and white shoes are classic staples in many women’s wardrobes. Pairing them together can create a crisp, clean and elegant look. However, it does require some careful styling to pull off successfully. Here are some tips on wearing white shoes with a white dress.
Consider Texture and Style
When putting together an all-white outfit, pay close attention to the textures and styles of each piece. Wearing a dress and shoes that are too similar in texture can look washed out. However, contrasting textures can create visual interest. For example, pair a flowing white chiffon dress with some chunky white sneakers. Or, wear a crisp white shirtdress with some delicate white lace-up sandals.
The same goes for varying the style – a sleek white sheath dress with minimalist white pumps looks chic. A boho white maxi dress with gladiator-style white sandals evokes a different vibe. Mixing up textures and styles prevents your outfit from looking too matchy-matchy.
Accessorize Strategically
Accessories are key for making an all-white outfit work. Jewelry, bags and other accessories introduce contrast and color. Look for white shoes and dresses with interesting structural details and embellishments. A white dress with cut-outs paired with strappy white heels instanty becomes more intriguing.
When it comes to jewelry, opt for statement pieces in metallic shades or colorful stones. A pair of turquoise and gold drop earrings can offset a white ensemble nicely. The same goes for an embroidered white clutch or a belt in a contrasting color. Accessorize thoughtfully to keep your look from appearing washed out.
Pay Attention to Color Undertones
Not all whites are created equal. When pairing a white dress and white shoes, pay attention to the underlying shades of each item. Cream, off-white, bone and ivory read differently from bright optic white. Mixing whites with varying undertones can make your outfit look mismatched.
The best approach is to choose a white dress and white shoes that have a similar undertone. If your dress is a true white, select shoes in the same clean shade. Ivory shoes will complement an ivory or champagne dress nicely. Just be sure the whites relate for a pulled together look.
Consider Adding Another Neutral
If you feel an all-white outfit needs a bit more grounding, add another neutral shade. A tan belt or neutral heel can anchor the look. Pairing white with black is also a classic and elegant option. A black handbag, hat orstatement necklace helps white feel crisp rather than washed out.
Greys, browns and beiges also work nicely with white. Just be sure the shades complement each other – stark white with dark brown may be too contrasting. Soft dove grey or tan feels more natural.
Watch Out for Sheer Fabrics
When wearing white head-to-toe, fabrics matter. Sheer and lightweight whites can easily appear see-through or show lines from undergarments. Steer clear of wispy white dresses or shoes made from delicate materials. Unless layered strategically, the sheerness is likely to attract undesirable attention.
If you love a specific sheer white dress, choose opaque white shoes to balance it out. Or, layer the dress over a neutral slip. Well-constructed white pieces that aren’t too thin or clingy make the best pairings.
Have Fun and Be Confident
Above all, have fun with pairing white dresses and white shoes! Work with pieces you feel your best in. An all-white outfit you love and feel confident in will radiate elegance no matter how it’s styled. Approach the look with a bold spirit and positive attitude.
White-on-white dressing allows lots of room for creativity. Don’t be afraid to play with modern or unexpected combinations. With the right attitude, you can definitely don white shoes with a white dress in a memorable way!
Guidelines for Wearing White Shoes with a White Dress
| Guideline | Tip |
|---|---|
| Consider texture | Pair contrasting textures like a flowing chiffon dress with chunky sneakers |
| Accessorize | Add pops of color and visual interest with jewelry, bags, belts, etc. |
| Mind color undertones | Match bright white with bright white, ivory with ivory, etc. |
| Add neutrals | Anchoring with black, tan, grey, etc. can give balance |
| Avoid sheer fabrics | Sheer whites may appear see-through, choose more opaque pieces |
| Have confidence | Rock your white-on-white look with a bold spirit! |
Conclusion
Pairing white footwear and white dresses is stylish when done intentionally. Pay attention to textures, accessories, color tones and fabric sheerness. Add in strategically-chosen neutrals as needed. Most importantly, have fun and project confidence as you create fresh white-on-white outfits. Follow these tips and you’ll be able to wear white shoes with a white dress successfully.
