What Colour Shoes to Wear with a Black Dress?

Black never fades. Black dresses are perfect for any season, any time and any occasion. But of course, choosing the colour and type of shoes to wear with it can stump a lot of people.

Don't worry. We have some advice that can get you spot on. Let's dive in.

In this article:

• Top 6 Colours That Work with Black Dresses

Top 6 Colours That Work with Black Dresses

Here are the top 6 shoe colours that work beautifully with black dresses:

1. Nude/Beige Shoes
2. Metallic Gold/Silver Shoes
3. Black Shoes
4. White/Cream Shoes
5. Bright Colours (Red, Pink, Blue, Yellow)
6. Animal Print Shoes

What Shoes to Wear with a Black Dress for Weddings?

Can you wear black to a wedding? Yes, if you follow these rules. If you're considering wearing black to a wedding ,you're most likely wondering which shoes styles are best?

For Daytime Weddings:

• Nude block heels (2-3 inches) with midi or knee-length black dresses

• Metallic gold flats for garden parties and outdoor ceremonies

• Blush or soft pink heels for a romantic, feminine touch

• Tan wedges for casual outdoor weddings

For Evening Weddings:

• Classic black pumps for timeless elegance - works with any black dress length

• Black strappy heels for added sophistication and visual interest

• Metallic silver heels for a sophisticated shimmer

• Burgundy or wine-coloured heels for rich, seasonal appeal

• Rose gold heels for a modern, luxurious look

Best Shoes for Black Dresses at Prom or Formal Events

Wearing black for prom and formal events ensures you'll look effortlessly elegant in every photo for years to come—your shoes can add that extra wow factor. Find black prom dresses here.

Show-Stopping Combinations:

• Black dress + black statement heels: Monochromatic elegance - try textured or embellished black heels for added drama

• Black dress + metallic silver heels: Classic and glamorous

• Black gown + gold strappy heels: Elevate the look from "nice" to "Knockout"

• Black dress + red heels: Bold and confident

• Black dress + jewel-toned heels (emerald, sapphire, amethyst): Unexpected and stunning

Heel Height Recommendations:

• 3-4 inches for most prom dresses (you'll be dancing!)
• Platform heels for extra comfort during long events
• Ankle straps for security and style
• Block heels for better stability

Insider secret: Black dresses give you the most shoe freedom of any colour. You can go bold with bright colours or keep it classic with metallics—both work beautifully.

What Shoes Go with a Black Dress for Parties or Night Out?

For parties and nights out, you can really have fun with your shoe choices. Black dresses provide the perfect neutral canvas.

For Cocktail Parties:

• Black pointed-toe pumps for sleek vibe

• Red pointed-toe pumps for classic glamour

• Metallic gold heels for festive sparkle

• Hot pink or fuchsia heels for a pop of colour

For Casual Night Out:

• Black ankle boots - cool, laid-back style

• White sneakers with a casual black dress (comfy & relaxed)

• Knee-high boots in brown or tan leather - perfectly with little black dresses

• Strappy sandals in bright colours

Colour psychology tip: Bright shoe colours create energy and make you the life of the party, while metallics add sophistication and glamour.

Best Shoes to Wear with a Black Dress for Work or Business

Black dresses are office favorites because they're professional and versatile. Your shoe choice can make or break the professional vibe.

Conservative Office Environments:

• Black closed-toe pumps (2-3 inch heel) - your failsafe option that works with any black dress

• Navy blue pumps - sophisticated alternative to black

• Dark brown or burgundy pumps - rich and professional

Creative Workplaces:

• Animal print heels - Think leopard or snake print

• Black Loafers - add a bit of coolness

• White Contrast ballet flats - professional and comfortable for long days, perfect with sheath or A-line black dresses

• Nude ankle boots with midi or maxi black dresses

Office styling rule: Keep heel heights under 4 inches and avoid anything too flashy or revealing for maximum professionalism.

Summer Styling: Light & Breezy Options

Summer calls for breathable materials and comfortable styles that won't leave you overheated.

Summer Favorites:

• Espadrilles - Perfect for casual outings, vacation vibe

• White sandals - Fresh and clean, especially with cotton or linen black dresses

• Bright coloured flats - Coral, turquoise, or sunny yellow for a pop of summer fun

🌤️ Little reminder: Swap heavy materials for lighter fabrics and open toes. Black dresses love texture and colour contrast in summer.

What Colour Shoes Go Best with Each Style of Black Dress?

Different black dress styles call for different shoe approaches:

Tip: When in doubt, nude shoes elongate your legs, while metallic shoes add instant glamour to any black dress.

FAQs About Styling Black Dresses with Shoes

Q: What about patterned shoes?

A: Black dresses are perfect for patterned shoes! Try leopard print, floral patterns, or geometric designs. The black dress provides a neutral backdrop that won't compete.

Q: Should my shoes match my handbag?

A: They don't need to match exactly, but they should complement each other. If your shoes are metallic gold, a gold-toned bag works beautifully.

Q: What's the most versatile shoe colour for black dresses?

A: Nude or beige shoes are the most versatile, working with nearly every black dress style and suitable for most occasions. They also create the illusion of longer legs.

Q: How do I choose between gold and silver metallics?

A: Consider your jewelry and personal colouring. Warm skin tones typically look better in gold, while cool skin tones shine in silver. When in doubt, choose whichever metallic you wear most in your jewelry.

Q: Are there any colours I should avoid?

A: Very few colours clash with black, but be cautious with colours that might create unintended themes (like orange for Halloween) unless that's your goal. Otherwise, black is incredibly forgiving and works with almost everything!