Occasionally, people are unsure about what color shoes to wear with a black dress. Many assume that black shoes are always the best choice, but in reality, you have a variety of options to choose from. In this article, we'll explore some alternative colors that can complement a black dress and add a unique touch to your outfit.
Image: Nude Strappy Sandals are always a WIN!
1. Beige/Tan
More often than not, I prefer to wear beige shoes with a black dress. Beige softens the look and, due to its closeness to my skin tone, elongates the line of my legs, making me appear taller and slimmer. Take a look at this formal party outfit I wore a few years ago. The light neutral beige strappy sandals perfectly match my pale skin and create a subtle and elegant look.
Image: Gold or Metallic
For a more casual black dress, I like to experiment with beige flat sandals. While black sandals would work, the unexpected choice of beige adds a unique touch. Additionally, the embellishments on this particular pair enhance the overall look. To complete the outfit, consider pairing it with a lighter bag, such as a straw bag or a fun-colored bag, to create a summery vibe.
2. Animal Print
Another fantastic option to add interest and texture to a simple black dress is to go for animal prints. Snake, cheetah, and leopard prints are all great choices. Here's an example of a fall/winter look featuring a black sweater dress paired with snake print pumps. The combination creates a trendy and fashionable outfit.
Image: Pop of Color
Leopard prints are also incredibly versatile and can elevate a black dress's overall look. The red bag in the photo below complements the black dress and leopard shoes, creating a striking black/leopard/red combination.
3. Metallics
During the summertime, I often opt for metallic shoes to go with a black dress. For a casual daytime look, I wore a fit and flare tank dress with flat gold slides. The gold shoes, similar to beige, create a low contrast against my skin tone, allowing the dress to remain the focal point. When wearing metallic shoes, I like to match the metal tone with my accessories for a cohesive look.
4. Brown or Cognac
Contrary to popular belief, black and brown can actually be a stylish combination. I particularly like this color combo during the fall season, but it can work for a summer look as well. For instance, a pair of cognac sandals with a cork platform sole creates a pleasing contrast with a black maxi dress. Adding a denim jacket can further enhance the casual vibe. To tie the outfit together, consider accessorizing with tortoiseshell earrings and a cognac bag.
5. Bold Color
Don't forget about the impact of a pop of color. While I haven't done it in ages, pairing red or hot pink shoes with a black dress can create an eye-catching look. In the photo below, the bright pink shoes stand out against the black dress, making a bold statement.
6. Black
There are times when black shoes are the perfect choice for a black dress. When I want a more traditional and conservative look, like for a funeral or a work event, black shoes are my go-to. For example, the black sheath dress in the photo below, when paired with black croc embossed pumps, creates a classic outfit suitable for a formal occasion.
7. Sneakers
Lastly, don't underestimate the power of fashion sneakers. A casual black t-shirt dress paired with sneakers can be a stylish and comfortable option for summertime.
Remember, there are no fixed rules when it comes to fashion. Feel free to experiment with different shoe colors and styles to find your own unique combination. Whether you prefer a more traditional or a bold and vibrant look, there is a plethora of choices available. So, have fun and get creative with your black dress outfits!
