Contents
Pair your little red dress with these foolproof shoe ideas.
Red is the new colorway taking charge. On and off the catwalk, the rising color trend is being incorporated into the wardrobe in all shades, from bright cherry red to deep dark burgundy. While nothing beats a black dress, these days, you might be thinking of incorporating the vibrant colorway in dress form. What shoes to wear with it is another story.
While the red can be daunting to pair at first glance, the styling opportunities for the bold colorway are just as versatile as a classic LBD (It’s not called the color of the year for nothing.) You can wear shoes your red dress to runway-ready heights by coordinating red on red or opt for a casual spin with your favorite pair of sneakers.
No matter the occasion, InStyle has picked out the seven best shoes to wear with a red dress.
Pick a Pump, Any Pump
A pointed-toed pump goes a long way, even with a red dress. Whether you’re heading to the office or on a late-night date, the low-height shoes are extremely comfortable, and they add a chic finish to the look. Choose any dress silhouette, from mini to maxi, and elevate it with a sleek pump. Think of red as a neutral—consider opting for black or white pumps as a go-to for any occasion.
Add Edge with Knee-High Boots
If you’re looking to add some edge to your red dress, then look no further than a pair of black knee-high boots. The knee-hitting silhouette will not only give the appearance of elongated legs but, depending on the color you choose, it will add a much-needed contrast to your look. Red dresses look best with a pair of sleek black, or even a dark chocolate brow, boots. You can also wear a slouchy style to give your red dress a much-desired edge or go full-on yeehaw with a pair of cowboy boots. All you need is a leather jacket, and you’re all set.
Elevate Your Look—Literally—With Platforms
Maybe it’s the Sababto de Sarno’s Gucci effect, but a red dress styled with platform anything—from loafers to heels—is the ultimate way to take your ensemble the high-fashion route. Elevate your look to new heights, literally, with platform sandals, whether it’s open or closed-toed. If you feel more casual that day, opt for platform chunky loafers (and, if you dare, slushy white socks) instead. No matter which one you choose, a bulky shoe will always make a dress look effortlessly stylish.
Go Full-On Ballerina Mode With Ballet Flats
There’s a reason why ballet flats have made a wardrobe return, and it’s because they are super chic and comfy. If you don’t want to fully commit to dressing up for the day, the dainty silhouette is your best bet to wear with a red dress. Take an easy day out the next time you wear a red dress by picking a style of your choice (Recently, we’ve been loving mesh ones for warmer months.) Throw in a ribbon or two to fully channel your inner ballerina.
Enlist Your Trusty Trainers
We’re strong believers in the “wrong shoe theory” when it comes to dresses, and a red dress is no exception. Sneakers have always been the shoe of choice for low-effort styling. Add playfulness to your #OOTD with sneakers, whether canvas styles like Converse or ultra-chunky dad shoes. Feel free to wear your preferred pair with your favorite little red dress—It’ll make even the most elaborate gown feel slightly more relaxed.
Red on Red on Red
Neutrals aren’t the only colorways that can pull off the monochrome treatment. Fully indulge in the fiery nature of red by going for a head-to-toe combo. Any shoe that you choose—like heeled sandals or tall platforms—in the exact same shade of red as your dress is sure to bring a kick to your outfit, especially on those super special occasions.
Stick With Strappy Sandals
A red dress looks great with just about any shoe, but sometimes, you need to resort to the basics, like strappy sandals. For a sweltering summer day, show off your pedicure with a pair of open-toed sandals. This timeless shoe will easily take your look from day to night, no matter how you style your dress.