10 Shoes to Wear With Summer's Biggest Dress Trends
Summer is just around the corner, and while we may not be traveling or attending many fun gatherings like in summer’s past, we still want to look and feel good in summer’s chicest pieces. One item that’s going to be on heavy rotation this upcoming season is unquestionably? Dresses. There are plenty of cool trends out there to suit every sartorial taste—from puff sleeves and crochet fabrics to open-back frocks and voluminous silhouettes. Which poses the question: What shoes should we be pairing with all our cool dresses this summer?
Below, we’re sharing some of the chicest footwear trends that will look gorgeous with your frocks this warm-weather season. From sporty sandals to retro sneakers, consider pairing one of these cool pairs below with your minis, midis, or maxis.
Chic Flip-Flops
This season, flip-flops are getting an elevated upgrade with chic details such as flatform silhouettes and luxe leather fabrics. Designers have released luxe versions of the controversial trend. (We're particularly loving The Row and Prada's right now.) Whether you wear flats or thong sandals with a heel, if you want to avoid a beach-ready look, pair them with sleek and polished dresses such as rib knit midi dresses or silky slips.
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Sporty Sandals
Sporty sandals have been trending for a few years now, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. While a classic black pair will never go out of style, this summer, we're seeing fashion girls wearing the comfy flatform sandals in fun colors, designs, and adornments to spruce up their voluminous dresses or sleek midis.
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Retro Sneakers
Retro sneakers are having a major moment this summer. They add a cool-girl touch to everything from floral print minidresses to colorful maxi dresses. Go all the way and wear them with trending white crew socks.
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Rainbow Hues
Nothing puts us in the summertime mood quite like a bright and bold pair of colorful sandals. We've seen orange and green hues in particular pop up all over Instagram and at our favorite retailers, which is not surprising since they were prevalent on the S/S 2020 runways. Don't be afraid to pair them with an equally bold printed dress this summer.
Lace-Up Sandals
Whether flat or heeled, your ankles will be getting some action this summer thank to the cool lace-up sandal trend. Pair them with your midi and maxi-length dresses this warm-weather season.
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Birkenstocks
The "ugly" sandal trend that is Birkenstocks is no longer a passing trend. In fact, they've become a mainstay in many a cool-girls wardrobe. They're especially popular right now given our desire for comfort at home. Pair them with a contrasting cute, puff-sleeved, billowy white frock.
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Chain Details
Shoes with chains, anklets, and other jewelry-like accents was a trend seen all over the S/S 2020 runway and adds a chic and luxurious touch to even the simplest dresses.
Platforms
Platforms and flatforms are trending hard this spring and summer—leaning into the popular '70s trend. Wear them with a sundress or slip dress when you want to feel all dressed up.
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Chunky Stomping Boots
Yes, fashion girls still wear boots in summer, and the chunkier, the better. Contrast your stomping boots with a flirty dress.
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Chic Slides
One of the easiest and most versatile shoes we can slip on with practically any dress we own are comfy, flat slides. Try them with luxe details such as buckles, mock croc, or woven leather.
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Up next, I'm not a dress person but I seriously might buy into these 5 new trends.
Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
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