Admittedly, we mostly talk about midi dresses here at Who What Wear. But with the recent resurgence of thigh-grazing hemlines, we've found ourselves trying to figure out how to style the mini dress in 2023. Specifically, we've committed ourselves to decoding which shoes best complement this shorter silhouette.
While the going-out options are obvious (from an elegant kitten heel to a shimmery slingback, generally low heels or pointed flats are the way to go), wearing a mini dress in the daytime is a little trickier. It's easy to feel overdressed when your legs are on show, so the key is to stick to casual footwear.
But for more precise pointers, we took to Instagram to check out how influencers are styling their short dresses for the beach, the city and everything in between. Word of warning: If you haven't previously been convinced by the mini trend, prepare for the following seven outfits to change your mind.
So, if you're wondering what shoes to wear with mini dresses this summer and beyond, scroll on to discover the ultimate list.
See the Best Shoes to Wear With Mini Dresses:
1. Chunky Sandals
Style Notes: Chunky sandals are our answer to every footwear-related dilemma in the summer months. But our bias aside, they'll make even your fanciest mini dresses feel more casual.
Shop sandals:
The Birkenstock like you've never seen it before.
These have a fisherman sandal feel, but with that all-important open toe.
I've spotted these exact sandals on multiple influencers.
The caged effect looks seriously premium.
2. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: To create a Parisian-style summer look, team a pretty cotton mini with ballet flats. Then just add a basket bag and you're ready for a stroll along the Seine.
Shop ballet flats:
A great ballet flat for a great price.
The elasticated band will make these less likely to slip off your feet.
Wear these with white cotton dresses.
Our entire team has fallen in love with this pair. Well done, Massimo.
3. Flip-Flops
Style Notes: If you haven't yet snapped up a pair of elevated slip-flops, take this as your sign. They'll work just as well with longline dresses, linen trousers and jeans as they do with Lucy's mini.
Shop flip-flops:
These will sell out any day now.
Every design from Lucy Williams' collab with Ancient Greek Sandals is beautiful, but these hold a special place in my heart.
A fun option for evenings out.
Make room in your suitcase for these versatile sandals.
4. Clogs
Style Notes: Running errands or embarking on a city break? Put comfort first and slip on a pair of clogs with a flowy mini dress—we recommend Birkenstock's Boston slides, in particular.
Shop clogs:
Scoop these up before your size disappears.
The Western-style buckle makes these really stand out.
Comfy and cool... A winning combo.
I can't believe how affordable these are.
5. Tall Boots
Style Notes: Knee-high boots and mini skirts are a match made in heaven. It might be too warm for the classic combo right now, but I know I'll be pulling it out at the first sign of clouds.
Shop knee-high boots:
So elegant—you'll never tire of wearing these.
Cowboy boots feel more summer-friendly than other kinds, especially for festivals.
A love-forever investment.
These would look great with bright floral dresses.
6. Espadrilles
Style Notes: If you want to add a little height to your mini dress look, opt for a wedged espadrille over a sky-high stiletto. Castañer makes some of the best.
Shop espadrilles:
I thought Castañer's canvas espadrilles would always be my favourite, but then I spotted this suede pair...
You'll reach for these for many summers to come.
A fresh take on this French staple.
Note the peep-toe detail on this pair.
7. Trainers
Style Notes: To dress down your sleekest LBDs, all you need is a pair of sneakers and some white ankle socks. Easy peasy.
Shop trainers:
There's something so nostalgic about these New Balance kicks.
A cult classic.
Why not have some fun with a coloured pair?
There's not a single outfit these won't work with.
Next Up: The Simple Jeans-and-Shoe Formula Fashion Insiders Swear By in Summer
