White dresses are summer’s canvas, waiting for the perfect shoes to complete your look. As a stylist who’s spent years matching footwear to frocks, I’ve gathered my top picks that’ll elevate your white dress game this season. Whether you’re hitting beach parties or garden weddings, these shoe options will keep you stylish and comfortable all summer long.
1. Espadrille Wedges
Nothing screams ‘summer’ louder than a classic espadrille wedge! The natural jute material creates a beautiful textural contrast against crisp white fabric.
I’ve styled countless celebs in these beauties because they elongate legs while still letting you walk without wobbling. Trust me, your ankles will thank you later!
2. Colorful Block Heels
Feeling bold? Vibrant block heels inject personality into your white ensemble faster than you can say ‘fashion statement.’
Though white dresses appear innocent, I’ve transformed countless looks with punchy turquoise or coral footwear. The sturdy heel means you won’t sink into grass at outdoor events – practical meets playful!
3. Woven Leather Flats
If comfort’s your priority (and honestly, when isn’t it?), woven leather flats offer that artisanal touch that elevates casual white dresses instantly.
How many times have I rescued clients from blister-inducing shoes? Countless! These breathable beauties keep feet cool while their textural interest adds sophistication to simple silhouettes.
4. Metallic Ankle-Strap Sandals
When sunset cocktails call, metallic ankle-strap sandals answer with glamorous flair! Gold, silver, or rose gold – each adds instant luxe to white fabrics.
Though I’ve styled A-listers for red carpets, these remain my personal go-to for summer evenings. The ankle strap provides security while that subtle shimmer catches golden hour light beautifully.
5. Classic White Sneakers
Hear me out – white-on-white isn’t fashion blasphemy, it’s pure genius! Clean canvas sneakers with a white dress create that coveted cool-girl vibe everyone’s after.
Whenever clients want comfort without sacrificing style, I suggest this pairing. The trick? Keep sneakers pristine – nobody wants dingy footwear ruining that fresh summer look.
6. Embellished Flat Sandals
Jewels, beads, and sparkly details – oh my! Embellished flat sandals bring the party to your feet while keeping things practical for all-day wear.
Having styled beach weddings galore, I swear by these for guests and brides alike. The decorative elements catch light beautifully against white fabric, creating that perfect balance of special yet sensible.
7. Braided Slide Sandals
Effortlessly chic yet surprisingly substantial, braided slides offer textural interest that complements white dresses beautifully.
During my styling stint in the Hamptons, these became my secret weapon for clients wanting that understated luxury vibe. The woven details echo summer’s relaxed energy while still looking intentionally styled.
8. Espadrille Flats
For those who love espadrille vibes without the height, flat versions deliver that same summery charm with marathon-ready comfort.
Having run between shows during fashion weeks, I appreciate shoes that don’t slow you down. The jute trim adds that perfect casual texture while the flat sole means you can actually enjoy walking along boardwalks.
9. Raffia Mules
If you haven’t embraced raffia footwear yet, where have you been hiding? These natural-material mules scream ‘summer’ while adding architectural interest to flowing white fabrics.
When styling editorial shoots, I rely on these texture-rich options to add dimension. Their slip-on design makes them practical for poolside appearances with zero fuss.
10. Transparent Vinyl Sandals
Clear vinyl elements create that floating-heel illusion that’s both modern and magical with white dresses.
Though initially skeptical, I’ve become a convert after seeing how these elongate the leg without visual interruption. The see-through straps virtually disappear, creating that coveted barefoot-but-better look that’s perfect for minimalist white ensembles.
11. Lace-Up Gladiator Sandals
For the fashion-forward, gladiator sandals add edgy contrast to feminine white dresses – it’s all about that juxtaposition!
Having styled music festival VIPs, I’ve witnessed how these statement-makers transform simple white shifts into conversation pieces. The laces create vertical lines that flatter calves while adding just enough visual interest.
12. Cork-Soled Platforms
Height without the hurt? Cork platforms deliver that ’70s-inspired elevation while distributing weight evenly for surprising comfort.
When clients demand height but have events lasting hours, these become my go-to recommendation. The natural material adds earthy warmth to pristine white fabrics – a contrast that always photographs beautifully.
13. Pointed-Toe Mules
Sleek and sophisticated, pointed-toe mules add architectural precision to flowy white dresses – it’s the perfect counterbalance!
Having dressed executives who need to transition from office to evening, these remain my favorite recommendation. The pointed toe elongates while the backless design keeps things seasonally appropriate.
14. Woven Huaraches
These traditional Mexican sandals bring artisanal craftsmanship and cultural richness to simple white dresses.
During a styling project in Tulum, I fell head-over-heels for authentic huaraches paired with breezy white cotton. The intricate leather weaving adds depth and story to minimal outfits – plus they mold to your feet for custom comfort.
15. Nautical Rope Sandals
Channeling maritime vibes, rope-detailed sandals complement white dresses with their seaside charm and unexpected durability.
After countless coastal photoshoots, these have earned permanent space in my styling kit. The nautical elements add thematic consistency to summer wardrobes while their cushioned footbeds make them surprisingly practical for long beach walks.
16. Two-Tone Slingbacks
Channel your inner Coco with two-tone slingbacks that add vintage sophistication to modern white dresses.
Though initially popular in another era, I’ve used these repeatedly for editorial styling with fantastic results. The contrasting toe cap creates visual interest while the slingback design offers security with breathability – perfect for summer soirées.
17. Macramé Wedges
Where bohemian meets practical, macramé wedges bring crafty texture and walkable height to floaty white dresses.
Having styled destination weddings, I appreciate shoes that handle various terrains gracefully. The woven details echo summer’s artistic spirit while the wedge construction prevents sinking into grass or sand – fashion with function!
18. Scarf-Tie Sandals
Fabric-wrapped ankles create dramatic flair that transforms simple white dresses into statement looks!
While styling a summer campaign, I discovered how these attention-grabbing shoes create movement in still photographs. The flowing ties dance with summer breezes, adding kinetic energy to white ensembles – plus they’re adjustable for various ankle sizes.
19. Sculptural Heel Sandals
For the fashion risk-takers, architectural heels transform white dresses into gallery-worthy ensembles!
When styling avant-garde editorial shoots, these conversation-starting shoes elevate simple white fabrics to high-fashion territory. The unexpected shapes create visual interest from every angle – perfect for those who view getting dressed as an art form.