11 Outfit-and-Shoe Combos That Make You Look Like You Know What You're Doing

As you're probably aware, shoes can make or break an outfit, but that doesn't mean you have to play it safe when dealing with outfit-and-shoe combinations. Oftentimes the best pairings are the most outside-the-box ones. And we looked to some of the chicest women around (and on Instagram) to bring you 11 examples of outfit-and-shoe combos that make you look like you know what you're doing (regardless of whether you do or not, sartorially speaking).
So what does looking like you know what you're doing even mean when it comes to an outfit? As you'll see among the looks below, it's choosing a shoe style that's a bit unexpected but still complementary. The shoes you choose say a lot about your personal style, how good of an eye you have, and how much you know about current trends.
Now that you know, read on for the outfit-and-shoe combos that'll make you look like you know what you're doing, and shop the shoes you'll need to create them.
Dress up your jeans with versatile white mules.
Shop the Style
Pair rugged combat boots with something flirty to look especially of-the-moment.
Shop the Style
The prettiest shoes to wear with jeans and a tee? Embellished ballet flats.
Shop the Style
Minimalist, strappy heels will make you look taller when worn with a jumpsuit.
Shop the Style
When wearing denim-on-denim, choose a shoe style that matches the chill vibe (i.e., Converse high tops).
Shop the Style
The coolest way to wear a pretty dress is to choose a shoe style that contrasts like "ugly" sandals.
Shop the Style
The hands-down easiest way to look cool this summer is to wear a black jumpsuit with espadrilles. Done and done.
Shop the Style
If you really want to look like you know what you're doing when it comes to red shoes, treat them like a neutral and wear them with your rainbow brights.
Shop the Style
Let the sneakers take center stage this summer and keep the rest of your look simple.
Shop the Style
Sock boots can be tricky with jeans and trousers, so stick to a midi skirt that shows them off.
Shop the Style
Leopard print is undeniably bold, so keep your shoe style understated yet cool with a pair of slingback kitten heels.
Shop the Style
Next up, the out-of-the-box outfit It girls are wearing.
Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater arts. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.
-
I Just Created 5 Expensive-Looking Pre-Spring Outfits from Zara, Mango, and Nordstrom—You're Welcome
Outfits for everything from a wedding to brunch.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Sunscreen Filters Abroad Are Totally Elite—Here's Why They're Not Available in the U.S. Yet
It's a bummer, but I have hope.
By Shawna Hudson
-
I Already Have an Elevated Closet, But If I Were to Start Over, I'd Go for These 5 Staples
Effortless outfit ideas ahead.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
These 5 Inspiring Outfits Are Proof You Can Easily Merge Classic and Trendy Styles
Trust me, you're going to want to re-create these looks.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Not Sneakers and Not Ballerinas—This Flat-Shoe Trend Is Far Chicer for Spring
Any guesses?
By Michelle Scanga
-
The "Dated" Denim Trend That All the Cool Europeans Never Gave Up On
And now we're ready to bring it back.
By Michelle Scanga
-
5 Chic Outfits From Parisians and New Yorkers That Are On-Trend for Spring
Next-level looks.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
I Styled 5 Chic Nordstrom Outfits for Under $400 to Wear This Spring
Elevated ensembles.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
These Are the 7 Stylish Shoe Trends Fashion People Will Be Wearing With Jeans This Spring
I see chic denim outfits in your future.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Chicest European Women Have Convinced Me to Try This Effortless Accessory
Simple yet so elevated.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes