Matching your shoes with your outfit

Wearing the perfect shoes to complement your outfit is sort of like the cherry on top of a sundae. Sure, the ice cream and sprinkles look fantastic, but without that little fruit, it always seems as if something’s missing. The same can be said for your footwear, and finding the ideal shoes that work with your top and bottom will make your wardrobe appear all the better. Here’s a quick guide to the do’s and don’ts of matching footwear with your outfit:

Heels
Arguably the most alluring shoe option, heels are great for adding more style into a variety of outfits. But that still doesn’t mean people should go overboard by wearing heels with every outfit. Heels work best with dresses and skirts, and if you’re considering slipping on taller heels, pencil skirts tend to help add some length to your frame. Lower heels have more versatility when it comes to wearing clothes, and for office settings, kitten heels match well with slim pants for a look that’s both professional and elegant.

plus size model wearing a blue printed shirt with black capris.

For those with shorter legs, you’ll want to try avoiding taller heels. Typically, the higher the heel, the less slender your legs will appear, so it’s always a good rule of thumb to wear shoes with a heel that’s no taller than three inches. Stick with closed-toe heels for more formal outfits, such as suits, jackets and trousers. When it comes to open-toe heels, show off your feet with skirts and dresses geared more toward lively settings, such as cocktail parties or a night out on the town.

Flats

It’s typically best to slide on some flats or loafers when you’re trying to stay comfortable rather than stylish, but that doesn’t mean the two can’t mix. Knee-length skirts, shorts or capris are generally the go-to bottoms when it comes to wearing flats, and you’ll generally want to avoid pairing these shoes with longer dresses or skirts. Flats are also great for an outgoing style because they come in a variety of prints and designs that can add some uniqueness to one-colored outfits.

Plus size model wearing denim jeans and jacket

Boots
When it starts to get a little chillier out, it’s the perfect time to bust out the boots, mainly because of the sheer variety of styles they come in. If you’re trying to find a more sophisticated look for your boots, strap on some skinny-heeled boots the next time you wear a pair of darker jeans or straight-legged trousers. Women with longer legs will look great in knee-high heeled boots with dresses and skirts that rest just above the knees. Of course, the classic combination of a vest, black leggings and fur-coated wide-heeled fashion boots is always a winning look in the fall or winter.

Plus size model wearing floral long sleeve with jeans, holding a blue purse.

Color coordination
It’s important not to forget how the color of your shoes complements your outfit. Brightly colored heels or boots should be worn with a more subdued outfit. If you’re wearing a printed top, try to pair it up with a solid colored bottom that matches the shade of your shoes. Of course, you can always play it safe by going with a one-colored attire that will always match while looking classy.

To learn more about matching your shoe color to your outfit, check out our shoe color guide.