Summer dresses demand the perfect footwear companions! As a fashion stylist who’s spent years pairing countless looks, I’ve discovered certain shoes that magically transform a simple sundress into a jaw-dropping ensemble. Whether you’re heading to brunch, a beach wedding, or just strolling downtown, these 19 shoe styles will not only complement your summer frocks but make people stop and ask, “Where did you get those?”
1. Espadrille Wedges
Where comfort meets chic, espadrille wedges reign supreme! The woven jute bottoms scream ‘summer’ while providing stability that skinny heels simply can’t match.
Whenever I’m styling a beach wedding look, these are my go-to recommendation. They won’t sink into sand yet still deliver that dressed-up feeling your maxi dress deserves.
2. White Leather Sneakers
Though seemingly contradictory, crisp white sneakers with a breezy sundress create that effortless cool-girl vibe everyone covets but few master.
I’ve converted countless high-heel devotees to this comfortable alternative. The juxtaposition of sporty and feminine elements creates visual interest that makes people do a double-take in the best way possible.
3. Embellished Flat Sandals
Why torture yourself with heels when embellished flat sandals deliver equal wow-factor? Those tiny crystals, beads, or metallic details catch the light with every step.
Having styled celebrities for daytime events, I can attest these fancy flats photograph beautifully. The sparkle adds instant polish to even the simplest cotton sundress without sacrificing comfort.
4. Woven Leather Mules
Hence my obsession with woven leather mules – they’re the perfect intersection of sophistication and ease! The textural element adds visual interest while the backless design keeps things breezy.
During particularly hot photoshoots, these have saved many models from heat exhaustion. The craftsmanship of quality woven leather elevates any dress, making it appear more expensive instantly.
5. Metallic Strappy Sandals
However basic your dress might be, metallic strappy sandals transform it into evening-worthy attire! Like jewelry for your feet, these gleaming beauties reflect light beautifully.
I’ve used this styling trick countless times for clients transitioning from day to night events. Silver works with cool colors while gold complements warm tones in your dress – it’s foolproof fashion math!
6. Clear Vinyl Heels
Though once considered tacky, today’s modern clear vinyl heels create an illusion of floating feet that’s utterly magical! The transparency elongates legs without competing with your dress pattern.
My celebrity clients request these for red carpet events paired with colorful dresses. The barely-there look keeps focus on the dress while still adding height and polish.
7. Braided Leather Flats
Where comfort meets craftsmanship, braided leather flats shine! Their intricate weaving adds textural interest that elevates them far beyond basic ballet flats.
I recommend these to clients who walk extensively during summer travel. The natural leather develops a beautiful patina over time, and the handcrafted details make even casual cotton dresses look deliberately styled.
8. Slingback Kitten Heels
If stilettos make you wobble but flats feel too casual, slingback kitten heels offer that perfect middle ground! The modest height adds polish while remaining comfortable for all-day wear.
My fashion editor friends swear by these for summer industry events. The retro-inspired silhouette pairs beautifully with both mini and midi dresses, adding a touch of vintage charm.
9. Sporty Platform Sandals
Though seemingly counterintuitive, sporty platform sandals with technical straps create an unexpectedly chic contrast with feminine dresses! The chunky soles add height without discomfort.
Fashion-forward clients request these constantly for music festivals and outdoor events. The juxtaposition of utilitarian footwear with flowing fabrics creates that coveted “I’m not trying too hard” aesthetic.
10. Raffia Slide Sandals
Nothing whispers “summer getaway” quite like raffia slide sandals! Their natural texture evokes tropical destinations, even if you’re just heading to the grocery store.
During beachside photoshoots, I’ve paired these with everything from casual sundresses to elegant maxis. The earthy material brings an organic element that balances even the most synthetic dress fabrics beautifully.
11. Two-Tone Slingbacks
Where Coco Chanel meets modern style, two-tone slingbacks reign supreme! That contrasting toe cap creates visual interest while the classic silhouette ensures timeless appeal.
My Manhattan clients particularly love these for summer office-to-dinner transitions. The design trick originated in the 1950s to visually shorten the foot while elongating legs – fashion optical illusions at their finest!
12. Chunky Chain Slide Sandals
If ordinary sandals leave you uninspired, chunky chain slides inject instant edge into any summer look! The hardware detail adds unexpected weight to feminine dresses.
My most fashion-forward clients collect these in multiple colors. The juxtaposition of heavy metal with lightweight summer fabrics creates that tension good style thrives on – like adding a leather jacket to a floral dress.
13. Cork-Bottom Wedges
Though wood platforms may be trending, cork-bottom wedges remain the ultimate summer classic! Their lightweight construction makes them practical for all-day wear.
I’ve styled countless resort photoshoots featuring these practical beauties. The natural material feels appropriately seasonal while the wedge shape provides stability on uneven surfaces like boardwalks and grass.
14. Scarf-Tie Espadrilles
How utterly romantic are espadrilles with colorful ribbons that wrap around the ankle? These ballerina-inspired beauties add movement and color to every step.
During Mediterranean-themed editorials, these are always in my styling kit. The ankle-wrapping detail draws attention to one of the most feminine parts of the body while the espadrille base keeps the look grounded.
15. Sculptural Heel Sandals
Where art meets fashion, sculptural heel sandals make their dramatic entrance! These conversation-starters feature architectural shapes instead of traditional straight heels.
My avant-garde clients collect these as wearable art pieces. Even the simplest slip dress becomes gallery-worthy when paired with these statement makers – they’re truly shoes that can carry an entire outfit.
16. Macramé Flat Sandals
Though leather dominates summer footwear, macramé flat sandals offer a softer, bohemian alternative! The knotted textile details add handcrafted charm to any summer ensemble.
For music festival styling, I rely heavily on these comfortable options. The crafty texture pairs beautifully with both solid and printed dresses, adding that coveted artisanal quality that mass-produced items lack.
17. Ankle-Wrap Block Heels
If lengthening your legs while maintaining stability sounds impossible, ankle-wrap block heels prove otherwise! The wrapping detail creates a flattering line while the substantial heel ensures comfort.
My petite clients particularly love this leg-elongating style. The visual trick of a defined ankle makes legs appear longer and leaner, while the block heel provides necessary support for dancing at summer weddings.
18. Western-Inspired Ankle Boots
Though boots might seem counterintuitive for summer, Western-inspired ankle versions create an unexpectedly perfect contrast with floaty dresses! The juxtaposition of tough and tender elements creates visual intrigue.
My music industry clients particularly favor this unexpected pairing. The boots ground ethereal fabrics while adding edge – perfect for festival season or adding character to an otherwise sweet summer dress.