When wearing a white dress, choosing the right color shoe can make or break your outfit. The shoe color you choose should complement the white dress, not clash with it. Certain colors work better than others for white dresses, depending on factors like the dress style, venue, season, and your skin tone. In this article, we’ll break down the best and worst shoe colors to wear with a white dress, so you can step out in style.
Neutral Shoes Colors
Sticking with neutral shoe colors is a safe bet with a white dress. These versatile hues act as a neutral base that allows the white dress to really pop.
White
White shoes are a classic choice with a white dress. An all-white look is crisp, clean, and elegant. White shoes extend the lines of the dress, creating the illusion of longer legs. Different white shoe styles like pumps, sandals, flats, or sneakers can work with a white dress.
Nude
Nude or skin-tone shoes are another fail-safe option. Nude shoes visually elongate your legs and blend seamlessly with your skin. They provide a more minimalist, understated look compared to white shoes. Make sure to match the nude shoe to your exact skin tone for the best effect.
Silver or Gold
Metallic shoes like silver or gold add some subtle bling to a white dress. They still read as a neutral but give your outfit a bit more visual interest and shine. Silver and gold complement both casual and formal white dresses. Pick the metallic hue that best flatters your skin tone.
Bold Color Shoes
While neutral shoes play it safe, bold colorful shoes can make more of a statement. When styled right, bright-hued shoes beautifully accent a white dress.
Red
A vibrant cherry red shoe pairs perfectly with a white dress, creating a chic, eye-catching monochromatic look. Red shoes give off a playful, flirty vibe. They work for day or night events. Opt for red stilettos for a sexy date night look.
Royal Blue
Royal blue shoes lend a refined, elegant accent to a white dress. The contrast between the crisp white and rich blue is bold yet sophisticated. Royal blue shoes look gorgeous with a white sundress or a formal gown.
Yellow
Sunny yellow shoes instantly energize a white dress, just in time for spring and summer. This colorful combo evokes cheerfulness and vitality. For maximum impact, choose a bright lemon yellow. Softer pastel yellow works nicely too.
Best Shoe Colors for Skin Tones
When deciding on a shoe color for your white dress, consider how it flatters your skin tone. Here are flattering shoe colors for different complexions:
| Skin Tone | Best Shoe Colors |
| Fair/cool | Silver, light pink, sky blue |
| Fair/warm | Gold, blush, coral |
| Light | Nude, peach, yellow |
| Medium/cool | Royal blue, magenta, ruby |
| Medium/warm | Red, emerald, turquoise |
| Deep/cool | Electric blue, violet, hot pink |
| Deep/warm | Orange, neon yellow, chartreuse |
Best Shoe Styles for White Dresses
The shoe style you select should coordinate with the dress style and occasion. Here are top shoe style picks for different white dresses:
Casual Day Dresses
– Sandals – perfect for a breezy sundress
– Espadrilles – give off vacation vibes
– Sneakers – add a sporty twist
– Ballet flats – classically chic and comfy
– Wedges – dress up a casual look
Cocktail/Party Dresses
– Strappy heels – sexy and glamorous
– Ankle-strap heels – chic sophistication
– Metallic pumps – shine on the dance floor
– Platform heels – comfort meets drama
– Jeweled flats – glitzy yet walkable
Formal/Bridal Dresses
– Classic pumps – elegant, timeless choice
– Peep-toe heels – show off a pedicure
– Satin heels – luxurious with a gown
– Embellished flats – dazzle without hurting your feet
– Sparkling sandals – make a statement
Minidresses
– Knee-high boots – leggy look for minis
– Ankle boots – toughen up a flirty dress
– Pointy-toe flats – elongate legs with a low vamp
– Chunky heels – add retro flair
– Wedge sandals – give you a little extra height
Seasonal Considerations
The time of year you’re wearing your white dress can inform your shoe choice:
Spring/Summer
Opt for open-toed shoes like sandals, slides, or peep-toes. Strappy styles show off a fresh pedicure. Light, breathable fabrics like canvas or mesh keep feet cool.
Fall/Winter
Closed-toe shoes like oxfords, loafers, and booties provide warmth and coverage. Rich suedes and leathers in darker hues fit the cooler weather. Try adding textured tights.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect shoe to match your white dress doesn’t have to be stressful. Stick with versatile neutrals like white, nude, or metallic for a universally flattering style. Or go bold with a color like red, blue, or yellow for a high-impact look. Consider your skin tone and dress style when choosing a shoe silhouette and hue. With these tips in mind, you’ll be stepping out in white dress confidence.