While we wouldn’t dare try to limit you to one pair of shoes for every dress you own, we do think it’s super helpful to have go-to combinations that are tried and true. Whether you have that edgy style, preppy style, or feminine style, keep on reading to get a hint on how to keep your style smart, sharp, and complementing for your signature look.
Romantic and Flirty Dresses



If you’re a fan of lace dresses and fit-and-flare dresses, you might have that romantic style that always look feminine and sophisticated. To complete your looks, resort to a pair of classic pumps, especially if you’re heading to formal occasions like weddings, business meetings and such. Though ankle strap sandals are neutral enough for your romantic dresses, it looks a bit casual compared to closed shoes like a pair of classic pumps in a neutral shade.
Bohemian-Inspired Dresses
Bohemian dresses such as ones with tribal prints, fringes, peasant style, bell sleeves, and a free-flowing silhouette can be complemented by lace-up sandals, platforms, peep-toe boots, and suede booties. The bohemian fashion is known for its earthy tones and suede fabrications so better opt for them to complete your desired looks.
Retro or Vintage Dresses
If you have an eye for vintage and retro fashion, dresses from these eras are normally worn with modern and edgy footwear to make the look current. However, if you wish to make your looks reflect your love for the vintage and retro fashion, team your dresses with chunky heeled sandals and ballet flats in neutral colors to keep the look grounded and iconic.
Casual Cool Dresses
If you’re wearing a casual cool dress that’s not too formal or sophisticated, pairing them with sneakers will make your style effortless and laid back. Like fashion blogger Nina Suess, you may think for a pair of chic sneakers that will go well with your knitted dress, perfect for a street style. When you’re wearing chic dresses and topped them with a denim jacket or any casual vest, going for a pair of sneakers will be great. A hood style of dress that looks a bit sporty will look perfect with a pair of slip-on sneakers compared to ankle strap sandals.
Edgy-Chic Dresses
Unless you want to tame your edgy looks with classic pumps, going for ankle boots and edgy sandals will be great to look cohesive on your street style. T-strap sandals and studded sandals look edgier than the typical ankle strap and more feminine over those oxfords and loafers. If your edgy style is more on the grunge look rather than the borrowed-from-boys look, resorting to edgy boots and ankle booties are your best choice.
Sexy Dresses
A sexy dress, characterized by revealing necklines, shorter hemlines, and form-hugging silhouette will look best in strappy sandals with stiletto heels. Though classic pumps may be great to wear with them, strappy sandals show off your sexy feet, therefore complement the theme of your outfit. Like fashion blogger Nicole Warne, elongate your legs in a sexy slit dress by going for a strappy pair of sandals without platforms and in stiletto style. If you’re wearing a little black dress whether it’s flared or body con, make the look sexy with crisscross or ankle strap sandals that will complement your theme.
Indeed, shoes can make or break your look, so pick ones that flatter your shape and complement your outfits.