beige mary jane shoes

WHAT SHOES TO WEAR WITH RED DRESSES? OUR 12 TOP PICKS

Whether worn as a vacation costume, a daring date dress, or an evening look, one thing is certain: we ladies still adore a vivid red dress in 2024! Am I correct?

However, the dress is an obvious choice. Because the dress color is so vibrant you may wonder “Do I have any shoes to wear with a red dress ?”, determining what color shoes to wear with red dresses–and matching purse colors–can be difficult.

If your dress is burgundy, poppy, or pink-tickled-red, the shoe colors in this piece are appropriate. They are all the greatest color shoes to go with most red dresses or outfits. That means any red outfit, no matter how red! 

Now, keep scrolling to see our 12 picks for best shoes to wear with red dresses!

Sam Edelman’s Yaro

This is one of the nicest colors to wear with a gown for a formal, a beautiful color shoe for a party dress, and excellent shoes for lace dresses. A flat, minimalist strappy sandal in this rich color pairs well with a casual or bohemian-style red dress. Sam Edelman’s Yaro is a versatile gold sandal that goes with everything. If it’s not your style, look at other gold metallic shoes in other shapes to discover what might suit you best. 

Patti Strappy Sandal

Beige, taupe, and blush are some of the greatest shoe colors to wear with a red dress! These neutral footwear hues look well with red and are probably easily accessible in your shoe closet. However, a red dress with nude shoes and heels is a fan favorite! This may surprise some, but believe me when I say these are neutral-colored shoes that work with anything!

It truly highlights the red attire, and a Nudist-style sandal is an excellent way to let a more complicated red dress speak for itself. Patti Strappy Sandal is truly an affordable nudist-style option

Double Straps Mary Jane

Black complements all colors, so it’s no surprise that it’s on the list. Not only do black shoes seem sleek and stylish, but they’re also easy to pair with a matching bag. You probably already have at least one black bag or pair of shoes in your wardrobe!

While black and red are a safe color combination to wear to a formal occasion, they can also be striking and sensuous, making them ideal for a date night. Simply pair your favorite black strappy sandals with a bright red dress and matching clutch, and you’re ready to go!

Alternatively, choose a pair of black double straps Mary Jane to make the outfit look both cute and chic!

Jewel Badgley Mischka – Galen Red Heels

Red on red is a stunning color combination that gives a truly eye-catching style, ideal for parties, dates, and special occasions. To get a cohesive monochromatic effect, choose red shoes that are the same tone as your dress.

While we believe that having an exact color match is ideal for this color combination, it is not always necessary. As long as the tones complement each other properly, you’ll look great.

So, if your dress is cooler-toned, match it with red heels with pink or even burgundy overtones, and if it’s a warm red, wear shoes with mild orange undertones.

J.Reneé’s ‘Maressa’ Silver Pointy Toe Pump

When shopping for shoes to pair with a red dress, silver is a terrific alternative to gold. They look wonderful paired with pointed-toe heels, brogues, or sandals! Silver shoes look great with metallic jewelry in the same tint and a red outfit. A pair of silver high heels can go well with a red dress, flattering its bold color.

If you’re looking for a closed-toe silver shoe, J.Reneé’s ‘Maressa’ silver pointy-toe pump has been a big hit this season due to its unique texture and inexpensive pricing. These heels are also versatile, easy to wear. It has a conventional but never out-dating form that can easily match well with any type of clothes. To elevate your outfit, pair it with a silver metallic bag.

Steve Madden – Lafayette Heeled

Brown is another neutral color that works exceptionally well with red. Because brown is a more casual shoe color, you should pair it with casual red outfits.

For example, we believe that brown shoes with casual red sweater dresses look great during the Christmas season. Similarly, in the summer, a casual red beach dress looks casually stylish with brown flats. The warm tones of brown can balance the brilliant shade of red, making it more wearable for everyday events. Additionally, brown shoes will allow your dress to shine on its own. 

The perfect option would be Steve Madden Lafayette Heeled. Not only do they make a great fashion statement, but they are also durable and long-lasting, so investing in these heels will not be a regret.

SCHUTZ Women’s Ariellen Sandals

Clear heels are currently trendy, playful, and slightly festive! How do I wear clear heels? With brightly colored outfits such as crimson! Choose between entirely transparent straps and bejeweled clear pumps. A pair of translucent heels with thin straps would look great with the red dress, regardless of how red it is. When it comes to clear high heels, the SCHUTZ Women’s Ariellen Sandals are the best option. The rubber heel cap provides robust support, making you feel more comfortable wearing it all day. 

Simmi London Paris Heeled Sandals

If you want to make your ensemble stand out, lime green pairs surprisingly nicely with red. Trust me, this sounds strange, but it is true. This is especially suitable for the summer – imagine a flowy red beach dress with lime green sandals!

Alternatively, if you’re dressing up for an occasion where extremely trendy people will be present, pair your red costume with lime green stiletto shoes to stand out. These Simmi London Paris heeled sandals with ankle ties in lime would look great with not only a red dress but also other outfits!

Stuart Weitzman Stuart 85mm White Leather Pumps 

Perfect for spring/summer! Especially if you reside in the snowy winter beauty of Toronto. Instead of black or silver shoes, pair your red dress with a dazzling white boot, sandals, or sneakers.

These white shoes are the most refreshing of all when paired with a red dress, as they are less aggressive than black but still contrasting (depending on skin tone and tights, if any).

White shoes look stunning with a modest red dress and are an excellent way to tone down the brilliance of the crimson outfit. Not the ideal option, however, if going to a romantic Valentine’s dinner 

Matisse Gigi 

If you can wear both black and white shoes with a red dress, why not try a two-tone shoe? Although red is more difficult to style with a black/white shoe, the simpler the dress, the easier it is to design a color block shoe.

That being said if you’re style-savvy and have a keen eye for detail, a more elaborate black and white shoe can complement an even more complex printed dress. A pair of Matisse Gigi is not only easy and comfortable to wear but also versatile. It can be worn with any type of clothes on any occasion. 

Purse Styling Tips: Opt for purses that are black, white, or metallic. 

Givenchy Red Satin Sandals.

Can you pair red shoes with a red dress? Matching your shoes and red dress works best for a black tie/red carpet event. Alternatively, you might attend a bridal event or opt for a matching prom appearance. Is this your case? If so, limit your shoes to a minimum, as Rosamund Pike did at the Oscars, wearing a gorgeous red lace gown and what appear to be Givenchy red satin sandals.

If you must wear red shoes with your red frock and want to make it casual rather than flashy, go with a dark burgundy shoe or bootie that will complement your red dress.

If you’re looking for a safe shoe to pair with your red dress, neutral hues like black and nude are always a solid option. However, we believe that metallics such as gold and silver should be considered neutrals because they may be worn with dresses of any color in your wardrobe.

Teva Anaya Womens Black Leather Boots Knee High

Black shoes are a versatile and fashionable alternative to pair with a red dress, providing a timeless style that complements any ensemble. For a relaxed and modern look, pair your short tiny red dress with your favorite black knee boots. Going out to a party in that dress is definitely a hit! I am confident that everyone will focus their attention on you. Wearing a black leather jacket and a black purse would complement your entire ensemble more. I’m confident those are simple, must-have staples in your wardrobe. One of the best black leather high knee boots would go to those from Teva Anaya. 

Conclusion

Finding the perfect shoes to go with a red dress can help improve your look and make a dramatic fashion statement. Whether you choose with classic black heels for a timeless and beautiful style, or metallic or neutral tones for a touch of elegance, the perfect pair of shoes may compliment and accentuate the brilliant attraction of a red dress. When choosing your footwear, consider the occasion, your own style, and your level of comfort. With the right shoes, you may boldly step out and create a show-stopping outfit that demonstrates your exceptional fashion sense. So, put your best foot forward and let your shoes enhance the appeal of your red dress.

THE 10 MUST-HAVE FRENCH FASHION WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

“French fashion is all about mastering the art of looking effortlessly chic—something every French woman seems to do with enviable ease. Le secret? A collection of timeless, versatile pieces that form the backbone of their iconic style. These wardrobe staples aren’t just trendy items; they’re enduring essentials that stand the test of time.

As someone French, I find myself continually drawn to these key pieces, season after season. They mix and match effortlessly with everything in my closet, becoming my go-to for daily wear. For instance, a classic trench coat isn’t just perfect for unpredictable Parisian weather; it also adds an instant touch of elegance to any outfit. A well-fitted blazer, on the other hand, can elevate a simple jeans-and-tee combo into a chic ensemble fit for both a casual outing or a business meeting.

If you’re looking to refine your personal style or rebuild your wardrobe from scratch, today’s post is for you! I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of must-have French wardrobe essentials that will serve as a solid foundation for creating countless chic outfits.”

A Classic Trench

Although it hails from England, the trench coat—referred to as “un trench” in French—has become a staple in French fashion. It exudes classic elegance and seamlessly transitions through the seasons. Whether you’re navigating unpredictable spring showers or layering up for autumn, the trench coat is an essential piece. On those days when you feel like you have nothing to wear, it’s your ultimate go-to!

For a more modern twist, opt for an oversized, masculine-inspired trench coat. Some of my top picks include the Anine Bing Randy Maxi trench, the Sézane Clyde trench coat, and the Rosaé Paris Le Saturnin trench. These coats aren’t your typical styles; they’re modern, edgy, and break away from the traditional double-breasted, belted look. Their maxi length adds a fresh, statement-making touch.

Ballet Flats

Ballet flats are a timeless classic that never goes out of style, perfectly capturing the French flair for effortless seasonal transitions. They’re my go-to footwear for both spring and autumn, offering a combination of comfort and chic. As enduring wardrobe essentials, they remain trendy year after year. This season, mesh, embellished, and Mary Jane flats are especially fashionable. Some of my favorites include slingback flats, like the Carel Peche patent leather pumps, ideal for spring and summer. For a classic, timeless style, these embroidered mesh ballet flats by Magda Butrym are a stunning choice.

A Striped Top

The Breton striped top, or “la marinière,” is a true French wardrobe essential. Originally inspired by the uniforms of French seamen, this blue-and-white striped, long-sleeved cotton top has become a timeless symbol of effortless French style. To achieve the quintessential look, pair it with classic blue jeans, a navy blazer, and black leather loafers. This season, I’m loving Sézane’s Jacob jumper in navy/ecru – it offers a modern twist on the classic design. For those who prefer something more traditional, the Noan marinière is a flawless choice.

A Cross-Body Bag

A black or camel leather cross-body bag is an essential and versatile accessory that every wardrobe needs. It’s perfect as a day bag to carry your essentials, an elegant choice for evening outings, or a reliable companion for travel. The value of a high-quality leather bag is unmatched, as it’s built to last through the seasons. I’m particularly fond of my vintage Celine Triomphe bag in black leather, which seamlessly complements every outfit. For those exploring options, Parisian brands like Sézane, A.P.C., and Polène offer fantastic choices. Right now, I’m in love with the Emilie small bag by French Maison Le Tanneur—it’s a definite wishlist favorite.

An Oversized Blazer

A blazer is a cornerstone of the Parisian wardrobe, instantly elevating any outfit with its refined touch. It’s the ultimate versatile piece, perfect layered over a classic white shirt or a turtleneck, paired with skirts or jeans. Whether dressed up or down, the key is the fit: a slightly oversized silhouette with strong shoulders is the current trend. For a touch of femininity, cinch it at the waist with a chic belt, like Isabel Marant’s Lecce leather belt. Stick to classic hues like navy (I love my Sandro double-breasted blazer, which I wear on repeat), black, beige (Blazé Milano’s double-breasted wool blazer is a great choice), or brown for a blazer that complements any outfit with ease.

Chic Ankle Boots

There’s no safer footwear option than classic ankle boots, or “les bottines à talons.” These versatile shoes are perfect for nearly any time of year, effortlessly suiting a variety of looks that can be dressed up or down. Whether paired with straight-leg jeans or pleated tailored pants, ankle boots add an instant touch of sophistication to any outfit. This season, consider ankle boots with a patent finish, like the iconic Estime ankle boots by Carel Paris. I recently purchased two pairs of Carel boots—one in bright red patent leather and another in navy blue and white leather. The block heels are just the right height, making them incredibly comfortable to wear. I absolutely adore them!

A Tweed Jacket

The tweed jacket, made iconic by Chanel, is one of my favorite outerwear pieces for mid-season. Its textured fabric and elegant silhouette add a sophisticated touch to any outfit, making it incredibly versatile. If you’re after that signature Parisian chic look, this jacket is a must-have!

For a stylish daytime look, pair it with cropped blue jeans and ballet flats, or go for a midi skirt and chunky loafers. For an elegant evening outfit, simply drape it over a mini dress. If you’re looking for the perfect jacket this season, I highly recommend choosing one in soft, neutral tones. Some of my top picks include the stunning Sandro tweed jacket, the Rosaé Paris Le Pépin chasseur jacket (which is on my wishlist), and the J.Crew tweed lady jacket in natural.

A Little Black Dress

The little black dress, or “la petite robe noire,” is a timeless staple in French women’s wardrobes, perfect for any special occasion, whether it’s a chic dinner, cocktail party, or romantic soirée. The ideal little black dress should never be too short, tight, or revealing. French women typically choose between a shorter style or one with a tasteful décolletage. The key is to find the one that makes you feel most comfortable and confident for any special event. One of my favorites is the Sézane Harper dress (which the guest is wearing in the photo), available in a shorter version as well. I also adore this stunning Sandro dress with a jewelry collar, which is currently on my wishlist. Pair it with ballet flats or evening heels, sheer black tights, and a crossbody bag for a look that exudes unparalleled chicness.

A Button-Up Shirt

The button-up shirt, or “la chemise” in French, is an essential piece for any well-curated wardrobe. For that chic Parisian look, opt for a slightly oversized version in white, light blue, or stripes. This versatile piece easily transitions from day to night, making it a staple in your closet. For a polished yet relaxed office look, pair it with classic blue jeans, loafers, and a slightly oversized blazer. When evening comes, swap the loafers for Mary Jane pumps and pair the shirt with a flowing skirt. Finish off the look with a sleek black satin blazer.

Some of my favorite options include the Sézane Max shirt in classic white, The Frankie Shop Lui cotton-poplin shirt, and the Anine Bing Mika shirt in blue. For a unique Parisian touch, check out the shirt collections from Marie Marot. For even more recommendations, be sure to check out my post on the best Parisian shirt brands.

Classic Jeans

Every French woman knows that her wardrobe isn’t complete without the perfect pair of blue jeans. The Agolde Riley high-rise straight-crop jeans are a classic option, offering a flattering fit for most body types and enough versatility to work for any season or occasion, all while providing unbeatable comfort. For a nod to ’90s style, try the light-wash Agolde 90’s mid-rise straight jeans, which channel Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s iconic look and are making a strong comeback. If comfort is your top priority, go for wide-leg jeans that exude effortless chic, especially when paired with crystal ballet pumps. Complete the look with a sleek, long black coat and a black leather crossbody bag for the epitome of French chic.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the French wardrobe is built on timeless, versatile pieces that seamlessly transition through seasons and occasions. By investing in a few key essentials, such as a classic trench coat, the perfect little black dress, and chic ballet flats, you can create a wardrobe that effortlessly combines style, comfort, and elegance. These pieces not only elevate any outfit but also form the foundation of a wardrobe that reflects the sophistication and ease of French fashion. Whether you’re refining your personal style or simply seeking to build a wardrobe that works for you, these French wardrobe staples will never steer you wrong.