Style Guide: What Colour Shoes To Wear With A Red Dress
Striking and elegant, fierce and alluring — the red dress has always been, and will remain, a classic choice for making a bold statement. This enduring appeal stems from red’s rich history and timeless quality — representing power and passion, the hue possesses a universal allure.
While generally easy to wear, red is — at the end of the day — a bold colour. Styling it requires a bit of extra thought, especially when it comes to accessories. The right pair of shoes can enhance the dress’s striking beauty, while the wrong choice can distract or clash. In this article, we focus on how to choose the perfect shoes to complement a red dress, along with extra styling tips.
Understanding The Red Dress
The red dress is a broad term that can refer to any type of dress in any shade of red. To better navigate the red palette and find the shade that suits you best, we can classify red into two main categories: cool reds and warm reds.
Cool reds have blue undertones, which give them a slightly purple tint. These hues are rich, deep and often associated with sophistication. Shades like burgundy, crimson and wine-red fall into this category and work well for individuals with cool skin tones.
Warm reds, on the other hand, have orange undertones that give them a more vibrant appearance. These fiery shades, such as tomato, scarlet and maroon, are bold and eye-catching, complementing those with warm skin tones.
This classification can help you choose the right shade of red to wear throughout the year. For instance, warm reds tend to stand out beautifully in spring and summer, while cool reds are more suited for fall and winter, aligning with the season’s darker mood.
The same principle applies when dressing for different occasions. A bright red dress might be perfect for a weekend brunch, while a deeper tone like burgundy lends itself well to a fancy evening. If you are attending a wedding, it is important to keep cultural sensitivities in mind — red can carry different meanings across various cultures and traditions.
Classic Shoe Colours That Always Work
Classic neutral shoes will always complement a stunning red dress, though the effect can depend on your skin tone and the exact shade of red. Here are some of the most common options.
Black Shoes
Arguably the most versatile neutral in existence, black shoes will complement a red dress in any shade. Since a red dress makes a powerful statement on its own, black shoes help anchor the look. Their sophisticated aura lends them well to both casual and formal evening wear.
Nude/Beige/Off-White Shoes
Keep the attention on your dress by choosing beige, nude or off-white shoes. Less striking than black footwear, they are just as versatile and flattering on a wide range of skin tones. Suitable for both day and night, they are a foolproof option that pairs well with most shades of red — a timeless combination that works all year round.
White Shoes
The crispness of white shoes goes surprisingly well with bright shades of red, like cherry and tomato. They add a refreshing touch to an already-vibrant look, creating a combination that is especially perfect for spring and summer.
Silver Shoes
Silver shoes are another versatile option. As a cool-toned metallic, they pair beautifully with cooler reds, such as burgundy and crimson. The understated elegance of silver shoes helps accentuate the striking quality of a red dress, making them an appropriate pairing for soirées, weddings or any occasion where you want to leave a lasting impression.
Gold Shoes
In contrast, gold shoes with their warm undertones complement warmer reds more naturally. This regal combination is ideal for special occasions, girls’ nights out and formal dress codes.
Unconventional Colour Pairings
If you’re feeling bolder, there are other ways to style a red dress too. Whether it’s a monochromatic look or unexpected colour combinations, you can experiment to find out what feels and looks right with your red dress.
Red Shoes
Go full monochromatic by pairing your red dress with matching red shoes. The shades don’t need to be an exact match — lighter or darker tones, or even textured red footwear, can add depth to the overall look, creating a distinctive ensemble that still feels cohesive.
Brown Shoes
This neutral hue may not be the first that comes to mind when styling a red dress, but it works surprisingly well. Red and brown form a harmonious combination that exudes luxury and sophistication. Opt for darker shades of brown to add depth and gravitas to your red dress.
Animal-Print Shoes
Switch up your red dress look with animal-print shoes. Leopard and snake prints match up to the bold, powerful aesthetic of red perfectly. To avoid visual clash, stick to a solid-coloured red dress without additional prints or patterns.
Pink Shoes
Both pink and red are often associated with feminine, romantic energy, which makes them complement each other perfectly. Experiment with this bold combination by choosing pink shoes to make an impression, or simply embrace it when you are feeling playful with your ensemble.
(Related read: Bag Colours That Match Well With Everything)
Seasonal & Occasion-Based Recommendations
Spring/Summer
Bold and vibrant, a red dress is perfect for the warm, sun-filled months. To reflect the cheerful, carefree and light-hearted spirit of the season, pick bright reds with orange and pink undertones over their deep jewel-toned counterparts.
From a casual sundress to a glamorous maxi-dress, a wide range of dress styles would work well for spring and summer. To stay comfortable in the heat, choose lightweight and breathable materials like cotton jersey and linen. When it comes to the design of the dress, opt for loose, flowy silhouettes that will keep you feeling cool throughout the day.
Classic summer footwear, like strappy sandals, slip-on mules and platform heels, are effortlessly stylish matches for a red summer dress. More refined options, such as pointed-toed pumps, ballet flats and leather loafers, will work well for both work and play. Mesh shoes are both trendy and practical on hot days, while sneakers will bring a relaxed playfulness to an impactful scarlet dress. To stand out, pair your red dress with shoes of an outstanding, contrasting colour — for instance, red and lime green is a surprising yet delightful combination.
Fall/Winter
Wearing a red dress during the fall and winter months can feel like an act of rebellion against the cold and the gloom. While bright chili and cherry reds would still work well for cold-weather dressing, deeper reds with purple undertones would better bring out the mood of the season. Burgundy and maroon are understated and sophisticated, subtly reflecting the power and vibrancy of red. A rich jewel-toned red is refined and statement-making at the same time.
Most sensible, winter-friendly shoe styles — including lace-up leather shoes like Oxfords and Derbys, loafers and boots — would match well with red dresses. Versatile and feminine ballerinas, Mary Janes and pumps are also fabulous options when styling a red dress. Simply wear them with socks and leggings to keep out the cold.
When it comes to picking a shoe colour to go with your red dress, black is undoubtedly the most failproof and effortless choice. To add subtle visual interest to your look, consider brown shoes as their warm tone will complement a red dress beautifully. Brown suede shoes, with their earthy hue and soft texture, are an especially great match for a red dress. If you want to make an impression, go bold with floral-print or animal-print shoes — they will certainly brighten up the dark winter days.
Holiday Season
Associated with festive cheer, the red dress is a style staple of the holiday season. The rule of thumb when styling a red dress for the holidays is to strike a balance. The goal is to create an outstanding look that captures the celebratory mood of the season, not to go over the top with attention-grabbing shine and statement details.
An elaborate red dress — such as a crystal-embellished or fully sequinned piece — should be complemented by understated classic shoes, such as black stiletto pumps. Conversely, if you are wearing a red dress with no or minimal embellishments, you can pair it with striking statement shoes that are designed to catch eyes and turn heads.
Common Style Mistakes To Avoid
While the red dress is a timeless classic that is generally easy to style, it is still important to take note of some common mistakes that are often made when one tries to accessorise it.
Wearing head-to-toe red
As red is already a strong colour to wear, dressing in red from head to toe can come across as too much. If you want to create a monochromatic look, be sure to choose shoes in a different shade of red than that of your dress. The result is a chic tonal look that is cohesive yet visually striking.
Mixing too many bold colours
Mixing bold colours is a recurring trend, but don’t go overboard. Stick to the 3-colour rule, which states that your outfit should be made up of a dominant colour, a secondary colour and an accent colour. Let your red dress be the dominant piece — choose a softer hue for your shoes and add colour accents via your jewellery.
Mixing too many textures
Aside from colours, you should consider the texture of your shoes and whether it complements the texture of your dress. Incorporating too many textures into your outfit can have a jarring effect. Choose shoes and accessories with finishes that contrast with your dress but do not clash with it. For instance, crisp cotton will pair well with suede, but tweed and ruffles can look fussy when worn together.
Both classic and bold shoe colours can complement a red dress beautifully, but a few key considerations — such as the shade of your dress and the occasion you are dressing for — can help you make better choices. Breaking it down into warm reds and cool reds can make the decision-making process easier and more intuitive. It is also important to avoid common styling pitfalls, such as mixing too many bold colours or clashing textures. Steering clear of these will help you master the art of styling a red dress with ease.
We hope this guide has helped you gain a better understanding of how to navigate the bold and powerful red palette. If you are ready to put these tips into practice, start shopping for the perfect pair shoes to go with your red dress here.
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A Complete Guide to Wedding Dress Codes
Wedding dress codes are meant to guide guests on what to wear and how to dress, but they have become somewhat tricky to interpret. This is because fashion, in itself, is highly personal and subjective — different people will naturally have different ideas on what a smart-casual outfit should look like. Influences such as culture and weather also play a role. For instance, a semi-formal wedding ensemble in the summer will not look the same as one in winter.
Moreover, traditional dress codes have given way to modern, creative ones. From garden party to island elegance, these vague, ambiguous themes add an extra layer of uncertainty to what you are expected to wear on one of the biggest days of someone’s life.
While all of the above may sound daunting, this guide will help you break down and decode some of the most common wedding dress codes — and a couple of the less conventional ones. It will also show you what to wear and how to style your look, with a focus on bags and shoes, to help you eliminate any outfit anxiety you might feel when it’s your turn to RSVP.
Understanding Wedding Dress Codes
Why Wedding Dress Codes Exist
You will be hard-pressed to find a wedding invitation without a dress code these days. As weddings become increasingly personalised and diverse in themes, dress codes provide helpful guidelines for guests to follow. They help guests feel confident about their sartorial choices and ensure they are neither underdressed nor overdressed.
Beyond clearing up any outfit-related confusion, many couples include a dress code to set the tone for the celebration. When everyone follows it closely, the overall mood and theme are elevated, enhancing the ambience of the entire event. Moreover, the cohesive aesthetic makes for striking photos — an important consideration for many couples in today’s visually driven world.
Key Factors That Influence Dress Codes
Wedding dress codes are shaped by a variety of considerations. They include, but are not limited to:
Venue. The location often sets the tone for how formal a wedding should be. For instance, a grand hotel ballroom would naturally call for more glamorous attire, while a beach wedding encourages something more relaxed and understated.
Time of day. Whether the ceremony takes place during the day or at night can influence the dress code significantly. Evening weddings tend to be more formal, often calling for richer fabrics and darker colours. Lighter colours and breezier materials may feel out of place after dark, but they are perfectly suitable for daytime celebrations.
Season and weather. In the warmer spring and summer months, dress codes typically lean toward light, relaxed styles, with pastel tones being especially popular. You can learn more about what to wear and how to style your outfit for a wedding in spring here.
During fall and winter, cosier and more intimate dress codes prevail, featuring richer fabrics and deep jewel tones.
Culture or religion. Cultural and religious wedding ceremonies may dictate specific attire or modesty requirements. For instance, Indian weddings often call for traditional clothing, such as sarees or lehengas, while church weddings generally favour modest outfits that cover the shoulders and knees.
In the absence of a clearly stated dress code, these considerations serve as useful reference points in deciding what would be appropriate to wear to a wedding.
Common Dress Codes, Explained
In this section, we will break down the dress codes in order of formality, from the most formal to the least.
White Tie
In the 19th century, the white bow tie became a mandatory component of the Western men’s formal evening wear. Symbolic of the highest level of formality — worn to royal banquets, state dinners and balls — the tie’s colour eventually came to define and differentiate the dress code itself.
As formal as it gets, full-length of floor-length gowns are warranted for a white-tie wedding. When in doubt, opt for classic silhouettes in sophisticated neutral tones, choosing luxurious fabrics to add a touch of glamour. Tall stiletto heels pair beautifully with these gowns, lifting the hem just enough to create a flattering fit. Complete the look with a compact, structured top-handle bag that will perfectly complement the white-tie theme with its polished elegance.
Don’t hesitate to bring out your most exquisite jewellery — this is one of the few occasions where it is truly appropriate. However, keep the designs refined and understated so as not to outshine the bride.
Black-Tie
Black-tie was introduced after white tie as a way to distinguish different levels of formality. It is considered a semi-formal dress code and is popular among modern couples due to its more relaxed expectations.
At a black-tie wedding, full-length dresses are still preferred. However, sophisticated cocktail dresses or elegant pantsuits can also be appropriate. Depending on the theme, bold colours, prints and patterns are more welcome compared to a white-tie affair. By this principle, you have a little more freedom to be playful with your accessories. For instance, a bow top-handle bag will add a chic flair to your look while still maintaining the level of formality the occasion calls for. As with white tie, tall heels are recommended to lift the hem slightly.
Where jewellery is concerned, statement pieces such as diamond drop earrings or oversized chunky rings make fun yet elegant additions. Check out our ultimate guide to decoding the black-tie wedding dress code for more insightful styling tips and suggestions.
Black-Tie Optional
Black-tie optional is slightly less formal than black-tie. While the ambiguity of this dress code can be confusing, you can use contextual clues to guide your outfit choices. For instance, an evening wedding typically calls for a more formal interpretation of the dress code, while a daytime or outdoor wedding allows for greater flexibility — think shorter hemlines, brighter colours and less conservative cuts.
If you choose to take the less formal route, mid-height block heels are the perfect complement. They offer a flattering lift without sacrificing comfort. Open-toe styles are suitable as well, though it's always wise to have your pedicure done. Complete the look with a mini bag crafted from luxurious fabrics and adorned with rich details to add an elevated finishing touch.
Cocktail
Don’t overthink the cocktail dress code — it’s all about having fun with your outfit. Any fashionable mini to midi dress that feels elevated is perfect for a cocktail wedding. Bring your personality to the celebration by adopting fun prints, vibrant colours or interesting silhouettes. Just remember that balance is key: you will want to look elegant without appearing overly casual or dramatically attention-seeking.
Chic flats are perfectly acceptable for a cocktail dress code. If you are worried they may look too casual, choose a pair embellished with elevated details, such as sparkly sequins. A compact crossbody bag is always a safe choice; metallic silver, in particular, adds a polished touch that never feels too casual for a wedding. As for jewellery, anything that complements your outfit goes.
Dressy Casual
Dressy casual takes the formality down another notch from cocktail attire. As a rule of thumb, you can take outfits you already wear on a day-to-day basis and elevate them with accessories to transform them into wedding-appropriate looks. For instance, instead of pairing a flowy maxi dress with casual flats, switch to a pair of elegant heels and it will fit right into a dressy-casual wedding. Skirts, which can appear more casual than dresses, are also perfectly suitable when styled with the right top.
Low block heels offer just the right amount of lift for instant style elevation while keeping you comfortable throughout the celebration. An elevated everyday bag that is chic and compact enough for the setting can also be used for dressy-casual weddings. At the end of the day, couples choose this dress code because they do not want guests to go to the expense of buying new clothing and accessories for a single event.
Casual
A casual wedding dress code is the most relaxed of all, but that does not mean anything goes. While you can lean into comfort, steer clear of T-shirts, ripped jeans, flip-flops and athletic wear. Sundress, skirts and jumpsuits all work beautifully — simply elevate them with thoughtful styling, such as accessorising with a statement necklace or an eye-catching shoulder bag.
Footwear should feel comfortable yet intentional — and casual weddings are one of the rare special occasions where open-toe slip-on styles are welcome. By coordinating your bags and shoes, you can quickly and effortlessly tie your look together with a chic finish. Ultimately, the goal is to appear neatly dressed and put together without the formality of cocktail attire.
Beach Wedding
The dress code for beach weddings can vary from casual to formal. However, due to the tropical nature of these seaside nuptials, lightweight and breathable clothing are usually the first-choice pick. Casual options include sundresses and rompers, while more formal choices comprise cocktail dresses made from delicate satin.
Reach for rattan, straw or woven top-handle bags that mirror the relaxed yet elegant vibe of beachside celebrations. Finish the look with strappy flat sandals — one of the most practical footwear options for the sand. Their flat soles make walking easier, while the openwork design is simple to clean and helps keep the sand off your feet.
Garden Party
Garden party weddings typically take place on lawns, in parks or across scenic vineyards. They are slightly more formal than beachside weddings but still maintain a relaxed, easy-going ambience. The most natural sartorial choice for such open-air celebrations is a floral-print dress — it will never look out of place against a backdrop of greenery. Alternatively, take inspiration from the surrounding hues of the open-air setting and match the vibe with a casually elegant frock, such as a light-blue one-shoulder toga dress reminiscent of clear, sunny skies.
Given the often-maximalist nature of garden-party attire, it’s wise to keep accessories simple. Neutral-toned flats that strike the perfect balance between chic and comfortable are practical; unlike kitten or stiletto heels, they won’t sink into the grass. A classic, structured top-handle bag is a foolproof choice as well — it will ground any outfit with elegance and a touch of polish.
Cultural/Religious Ceremonies
For cultural or religious weddings, dress codes can vary widely. It is the wedding guest’s due diligence to research the couple’s cultural background and to understand what would be considered appropriate attire.
For instance, at Chinese weddings, guests should generally avoid white and black as these colours can symbolise morning. At Indian weddings, bright and colourful traditional attire like lehengas and sarees is typically expected. Vibrant hues and elaborate designs help you blend in with the joyous atmosphere, while overly formal Western outfits may look out of place.
At church weddings, modesty is preferred — showing respect by covering your knees and shoulders is customary.
Ultimately, taking time to understand the wedding’s tradition and expectations ensures you arrive appropriately dressed and respectful of the cultural significance of the occasion.
Additional Accessorising Tips for Wedding Guests
Handbag Recommendations
For both formal and casual weddings, small bags are a wise choice. They keep your essentials close while offering ease of movement so you can fully enjoy the celebrations. Always choose a design that matches the formality of the event, such as embellished or metallic clutches for black-tie occasions, and raffia or canvas finishes for casual outdoor parties. Make sure your bag complements your outfit as well — aim to strike a balance by pairing bolder dress with simpler bags and vice versa. This restraint helps maintain polished elegance.
Shoe Recommendations
When it comes to shoes, comfort is always of the utmost importance. Weddings involve plenty of standing, mingling and dancing, so choose a footwear that supports you throughout the event. As a rule of thumb, opt for stilettos for formal black-tie, mid-height heels for semi-formal dress codes, and dressy flats or sandals for casual settings. If you are planning to wear flats and worry they might appear too casual, choose a pair adorned with elegant details or made from luxurious materials. Never wear rubber flip-flops and avoid sneakers as much as possible.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Dressing for Weddings
Wearing bridal colours. Modern brides most commonly wear white, so it is best to avoid any shade of white altogether. In some cultures or regions, brides may wear other specific colours, so it is important to a little research beforehand and steer clear of those hues as well. If you know what the bridal party will be wearing, try to avoid clashing with their colours.
Underdressing or overdressing. As a guest, your main responsibility is to dress appropriately for the occasion. Always follow the couple’s dress code closely If no dress code is provided, consider the venue, time of day and the season and weather to decide what to wear. When in doubt, it is better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Wearing anything too revealing. Even on an ordinary day, revealing outfits can be considered a fashion misstep — and even more so at a wedding. The bride is the star of the show, and your attire should respect that. Err on the side of caution and opt for classic, conversative cuts and silhouettes.
Wearing uncomfortable shoes. If you plan to wear new shoes, always break them in to ensure they can withstand hours of wear. Uncomfortable footwear will distract you from the moment, and the last thing you want is to leave early and disappoint the happy couple.
Not doing research. While the dress code sets the general expectations, factors such as the venue, season and weather can influence what is appropriate. Always consider the location and time of year when planning your outfit.
Wearing anything too loud or flashy. A voluminous tulle gown will draw attention away from the couple, even if unintentionally. You should never upstage the bride or overshadow the event. Chose understated looks that strike a respectful balance.
In conclusion, always do your due diligence as a wedding guest by researching the venue, weather, and any cultural or religious backgrounds of the happy couple to help guide your outfit choice. This ensures you are less likely to commit a fashion faux pas and allows you to confidently — and comfortably — take part in the merrymaking.
We hope this guide has helped you gain a clearer understanding of the various wedding dress codes and how to navigate them. Browse and shop our thoughtfully curated edit for wedding guests, and put your new knowledge to immediate use for the upcoming wedding season.