Shoes shouldn’t be an afterthought. For some looks, they are the burst of color and style that completes the look. For others, shoes anchor your look. They drive home your style and are the eye-catching detail that defines your look and even accentuates your day’s purpose. Of course, shoes have to fit well, handle the long hours you’re on your feet, and offer plenty of support.
It’s possible to find the perfect pair of shoes. You may just need some careful consideration of options to find the best combination of comfort and style. At Dansko, you have options (a lot of them), and that makes pairing easier than you thought possible, whether it’s a night out or for everyday wear.
Need some help on how to match shoes to an outfit? Here are some simple tips to help you match your shoes with an outfit and still benefit from having the best look of the day.
Start With the Occasion
Before going further, be realistic. Your shoes must fit the type of tasks you’re tackling during the day. If you’re heading to work, they need to be practical to some degree. On the other hand, if you’re heading out for a day with the kids at the park, you need to bring out your playful side and be able to handle the trails and playground dirt. Consider the functionality your shoes need to meet:
- All-day standing: No matter what you’re doing, support to keep your feet from aching is a must.
- Travel: If you’re heading out on a trip, you need comfort to support you as you trudge across the airport. You also need something easy to slip on and off.
- Formal events: For a day spent at a special event, whether it’s a corporate speaking event, the wedding of a friend, or a night out with someone special, looks matter. You need comfort, but you also need the right look.
Casual everyday to ultra formal, the right pair of shoes makes sure you get through the day’s tasks with proper support and style. Functionality and comfort ultimately make the difference in how successful any type of experience will be. There’s nothing quite like having shoes that hurt, slip, or make every step painful.
Match Shoe Style to Outfit Type
Now, let’s talk about the look. Prioritize functionality and fit. You need good comfort and performance. But you can also look good while you do so. Quality shoes make that possible. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best types of shoes for various looks and why they work so well.
- Clogs: The right pair of clogs creates an elevated and funky element to any style. They pair well with a casual or creative outfit, creating an eye-catching detail (depending on the color and style you choose). View clogs as the perfect option for a casual day out, an evening with friends at the bar, or an updated work look.
- Loafers: They have always been the professional option, perfect for the workday, and with good reasons. If you work in an office, loafers offer a clean, professional look. They scream sophistication and mean business. It’s hard not to be taken seriously with these shoes on.
- Mules: There’s something about a pair of mules that just makes a statement. They are polished and refined, simple to wear, and comfortable even if you’re on your feet all day. Even better, you’ll find that mules are versatile. They can ground a workday outfit or be the ideal choice for heading out for a day of lunch and shopping.
- Boots: Boots try to be practical, and they certainly can be, depending on the style. But they can also be cute and impressive statement pieces when paired with the right look. Boots are perfect for fall and winter looks, including jeans, long skirts, or the perfectly fitting pair of trousers. With embellishments, you can upscale your look.
- Mary Janes: When it comes to stylish and funky, you may need Mary Janes as the new shoes for your wardrobe. These are the perfect option for those who spend a lot of time on their feet, whether it’s at work or school, and need shoes that blend comfort and style.
What type of shoe fits your look? Before you decide, let’s talk about taking the style of shoe to the next level by pairing it well with the right details.
Color Coordination
The next factor to think about is color. Now, there are plenty of ways to approach color when it comes to shoes. It’s not unheard of to wear a solid look in a single color and then use your shoes to add a vibrant pop of a completely different hue. This is a great way to make a fashion statement that’s going to turn heads.
Alternatively, you can easily create a look that’s impressively put together and use shoes as a way to ground it. Color, in this case, may blend in or bring together the entire palette. There are a few important elements to keep in mind as you choose a color for your shoes:
- Neutral grounding: Neutrals are always a good option to have in your closet. If you have a detailed, patterned, or brightly colored look in the clothes you’re wearing for the day, choose neutral colors for shoes. It creates a sense of foundation and allows the eye to settle.
- Color harmony: This can be a tough area for many people. You want colors to work together and not against each other. To do that, you’ll want to choose shoes that have colors that work well together. Use your personal feelings to judge color combinations. Remember that shoes like these are always going to be a reflection of your style.
- Contrast decisions: Another important factor to think about when it comes to shoes is contrasting. There are times when you’ll want to contrast colors. Think black with cool tones; doing so creates a statement.
Bold shoes with a minimalist outfit make a statement. Brown shoes with earth tones keep the look going and simple.
Match Materials & Textures
Another consideration is the material type. It’s often beneficial to use materials in the following ways.
- Suede pairs well with cozy fall fabrics and softer materials.
- Leather elevates any look, adding to a structured outfit.
- Canvas is perfect for lightweight looks, like summer outfits.
Think about the way texture adds to the visual quality of any cohesive look when choosing your shoes.
Consider Proportion & Silhouette
You may not have thought about this before, but it’s what can define a good look from a fabulous one. Look at the shoe’s shape. This contributes to the balance of the entire look.
- Chunky clogs are perfect for wide-leg jeans and pants because they are bigger and bolder.
- Sleek flats are ideal for fitted pants because they keep the slim look.
- High ankle boots are perfect with skirts because they draw the look upward.
Don’t overlook heel height. Choose a height that fits right for your needs, including what your plans are for the day. Just remember that heel height will shift proportions.
Seasonal Considerations
Season plays a major role in how your shoes look, feel, and perform. Choosing footwear that aligns with the weather ensures both comfort and effortless style year-round.
- Airy mules are perfect for summer and early fall.
- Suede and boots work well together during the fall and winter months.
- Dark leather is tantalizing in the depths of winter.
Outfit Examples
From casual days to more put-together moments, shoes play a key role in how an outfit comes together. Here are a few go-to combinations that consistently work.
- Jeans and clogs: It’s a sensible option for any day out. They work well for those who want their shoes to be grounding.
- Trousers and loafers: It’s a sensible, professional, simple look. They are ideal for reasonable tasks and long days on your feet.
- Sweater dress and boots: Too cute when you match the colors and styles for the season.
- Linen pants and mules: The perfect combination of elegance and refinement.
- Heels and a stunning dress: The perfect fit helps to elevate your look and draws the eye in to the whole picture
When it comes to choosing shoes for any type of experience, you can choose options that stand out or those that afford you the most comfort possible. No matter what your plans are, there’s some good news available. View Dansko’s many versatile styles, which are perfect for whatever look you’re going for. Now that you’ll have perfectly paired shoes with your outfit, the best look is easier to create than ever.
