how to dress up a black dress

A Complete Footwear Guide for Black Dresses: What Shoes Should You Wear?

The color black is a timeless hue that evokes feelings of mystery, power, and confidence in us. Therefore, it doesn’t come as a surprise that black dresses are a popular clothing choice among women of all skin tones and body types. They also come in different lengths and styles and are adorned by people from all walks of life. However, whether you are wearing a little black dress or a floor-length black gown, no outfit is complete without the right footwear to go with it.

You will be happy to know that black complements almost every other shade, so you can practically wear any color with it. That being said, it is important to consider the length of your dress, as well as the event for which you’ll be wearing it when picking what shoes to wear. For instance, you should not wear the same shoes you would wear at a wedding to a formal event. 

This is why, depending on the season and occasion, we have compiled a list of the different types of shoes you can wear with the black dress of your choice. 

Shoes to Wear with a Long Black Dress

Although the term “long black dress” is broad, shoes with a bit of height are usually the ideal match. Accordingly, you are better off pairing your long black dress with the heels of your choice, especially if you are in need of the added lift. However, it doesn’t mean long black dresses cannot be worn with flat shoes. Remember, if your black dress is short, you can still wear the different types of shoes listed here!

Ankle Strap Heels

beige shoes with a black dress

Ankle strap heels are the perfect candidate for your long black dress. For one, they look incredible on the feet. At the same time, the straps provide some extra support and character to the heels. You can easily wear black or silver ankle strap heels with any long black dress of your choice. 

Pointed Toe Pumps

black dress with shoes

Another classic pair of high heels is pointed toe pumps, and we are definitely here for them. They are the epitome of elegance and can amp up any outfit in an instant. So, why not pair your long black dress with black, silver, or white color pointed toe pumps? You can also throw on some red pumps for a bolder look. 

Lace-Up Heels

black dress with black shoes

Does your long black dress have a slit in it? If that is the case, what better way to flaunt those stunning legs than with a pair of lace-up heels? Lace-up heels are a gorgeous footwear option that can be styled in a number of ways. Wear black lace-up heels with your long black slit dress for the best effect! 

Flat Pumps

SHOES TO WEAR WITH BLACK COCKTAIL DRESS

Not a fan of heels? Don’t worry, you can still wear flat ballerina pumps with your long black dress, especially if you can do without the extra height. Flat pumps are the perfect pair of shoes for those who prepare comfort and functionality over all else. They also come in a variety of designs and patterns, so you will never run out of options to choose from! Pair your long black dress with brown flat pumps and accessories to tie everything together. 

Sneakers

black dress with white shoes

Speaking of flat shoes, sneakers are also a stylish pair to consider if you are looking for something on the more casual side. Try wearing your long black dress with a classic pair of white sneakers for a laidback look. This combination is so iconic and can be dressed up or down depending on where you are headed. 

Shoes to Wear with a Black Dress in Winter

To keep warm in the winter, your feet require extra attention. However, you don’t have to compromise on style to achieve that! Here are some shoes that will pair perfectly with your black dresses in winter

Thigh-High Boots

Best Shoe Colors To Wear With A Black Dress

Who doesn’t adore thigh-high boots, especially when they keep your feet warm and cozy throughout the winter months? Thigh-high boots are a no-brainer if you are wearing a mini black sweater or blazer dress. Not only will you look trendy wearing them, but the boots will also add a layer of warmth to the outfit, making it both functional and fashionable. You can pair them with tights or leggings as well.  

Ankle Boots

footwear to wear with black dress

Another trendy footwear option is ankle boots. Whether you are wearing a short, midi, or long black dress, ankle boots will add a touch of sophistication to your look. Wear them with the black dress of your choice with matching leggings and accessories to complement it. This gorgeous pair of boots will never let you down!

High-Heel Boots

Best Shoe Colors To Wear With A Black Dress

Another lovely pair that may be worn with a variety of outfits is high heel boots. As the name suggests, they combine the features of high heels with boots to give you the best of both worlds. They look best paired with mid or floor-length black dresses and are ideal for wearing at winter parties and events.         

Uggs

Best Shoe Styles to Wear With Black Dresses

In the winter, uggs are a must-have pair of boots. This classic pair is available in a variety of lengths and can be worn with any black outfit. They not only manage to keep your feet warm all day but also look great while doing it! So if you are heading out, make sure to put on your trusty ugg boots with your black dress. 

Combat Boots

heels for black dress

Since boots are fantastic for the winter, why not give combat boots a try instead? Combat boots are an excellent footwear choice for any boot enthusiast and streetwear is essential for sure. They are stylish and edgy, and they look good with most, if not all-black outfits. Pair your black combat boots with a black dress and matching black accessories for an all-black ensemble. 

Shoes to Wear with a Formal Black Dress

Black, along with white, beige, grey, and brown, is a neutral shade that is considered appropriate for formal wear. When it comes to formal outfits, however, less is always more. So, it is best to keep things simple and traditional. Remember to always opt for minimal designs and better functionality. 

Formal Pumps

Pairing black with white shoes

Formal pumps are unquestionably the best formal shoes for wearing at the office. They are usually closed-toe and can easily be paired with all formal black dresses. When selecting the right formal shoes, it is better to pick a muted shade, such as beige or grey, or opt for black pumps instead. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this particular pair. 

Stilettos

Ways To Style Your Little Black Dress

Stilletos are versatile pairs of heels that can be utilized in a variety of ways. They are especially useful for adding some character and dimension to your otherwise plain formal clothes. Besides, you can effortlessly style them with any formal black dress, regardless of the length. From the office to formal parties, stilettos can be worn just about anywhere. 

Slingback Heels

how to accessorize a black dress for a fall wedding

Have a formal party to attend but can’t decide what shoes to wear? Then, slingback heels may be your best bet! They are a simple yet sophisticated pair and look amazing on the feet. Similar to stilettos, slingback heels give your clothing a certain edge without making it excessively fancy or improper for formal occasions. In short, they are relatively straightforward pairs of shoes that reek of elegance and style.      

Kitten Heels

 shoes for little black dress

We firmly believe every woman should at least own a pair of kitten heels. Closed-toe kitten heels are a classic and popular footwear choice for formal wear. The short heels make it comfortable for regular wear without sacrificing style. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that high-profile celebrities and office workers alike wear kitten heels on a daily basis. 

Loafers

shoes to wear with black dress for wedding

Loafers are an excellent choice for women who are on the lookout for comfortable formal shoes that aren’t boring. Depending on your preference, you can either wear flat loafers or loafers with short heels. All in all, they are a good alternative to traditional formal shoes.

Shoes to Wear with a Black Dress to a Wedding

If you are thinking of wearing a beautiful black dress to a wedding, we have just the right shoes for you. 

Peep-Toe Stilettos 

All Types of Shoes that Work with a Little Black Dress

Peep toe stilettos are often overlooked, but they are a stunning pair nevertheless. Wear your black party dress with black, nude, or metallic peep-toe stilettos, and you will surely steal admiring glances. 

Block Heels

 what color shoes to wear with black outfit

Despite their widespread use, block heels are sometimes seen as a statement piece. Besides, block heels are generally more durable and sturdy when compared to pencil heels. So if you enjoy the look and feel of block heels, go ahead and pair them with your black wedding dress. 

Cut Out Heels

 shoes to wear with black summer dress

Cut-out heels are an exceptional pair, but you won’t regret wearing them to a wedding. In fact, they may even set your outfit apart from the rest of the guests. Combine black dress with matching black cut-out heels, and you have yourself a look. Of course, if you feel particularly fancy, why not go for a bolder color such as red? 

T-Strap Heels

heels for black dress

Even if t-strap heels are not your first pick, they are still a lovely pair that can be styled with your black dress. The unique shape of the straps help frame your beautiful feet. Remember to opt for neutral shades that compliment your outfit for a more cohesive look.

Mule Heels

how to accessorize a black dress

Lastly, mule heels have resurfaced in popularity, and rightfully so. Their vintage look and ease of wear make them extremely popular among fashion-forward women. So, don’t shy away from pairing your black wedding dress with some stunning mules! 

Since black is such a versatile shade, it is widely loved by people all around the world and is consistently at the forefront of fashion. While there is no wrong color or type of shoe to pair with a black dress, some shoes just look better. With the help of this guide, we hope that you will be able to find the right pair for your specific needs.