The Celebrity-Approved Shoes That Will Instantly Elevate Your Dress Game
When Parade and Yahoo Style & Beauty call out the best shoes to wear with dresses, you listenâespecially when theyâve tapped celebrity stylists to do the talking. Weâre breaking down the standout tips from the feature by Alyssa Rotunno (originally published on Parade June 29, 2025), while spotlighting the styles you can shop right here, right now to recreate the look.
Why Your Shoes Matter
Summer is dress season, and whether you're reaching for a breezy maxi or a flirty mini, your shoes shouldnât just tag alongâthey should complete the look. According to celeb stylist and M.M. LaFleur's Director of Merchandising, Shelby Goldfaden, footwear is more than an accessory: itâs an extension of your personality. Match textures, mix moods, andâmost importantlyâwear what makes you feel amazing.
â Stylists Say These Shoes Complete Every Dress Look - Here Are the Ones We're Loving Right Now
7 Stylist-Backed Shoe Picks That Turn Every Dress Into a Showstopper
1.Casual Loafers
Polished yet laid-back, loafers bring structure and comfort to breezy summer dresses. Perfect with minis or shirtdresses, they offer an easy style upgrade with zero fuss. Their versatility makes them a go-to for everything from daytime errands to low-key evening plans.
2.Kitten Heels
Low lift, high impactâkitten heels strike the perfect balance between elegance and ease. Ideal with slip dresses or tailored summer silhouettes, they add just enough height while keeping comfort front and center. These sleek heels deliver refined simplicity and day-to-night versatility. ⨠Try: Itzy by Olivia for streamlined elegance, or Moscato by Olivia (pictured) for sculptural charm and modern polish.
3.Ballet Flats
Sweet and sophisticated, ballet flats bring effortless charm to summer dresses. Whether youâre wearing a flowing maxi or a tailored shift, their low-profile design adds balance and poise without overpowering your look. Ideal for daytime outings or relaxed evenings, theyâre the quiet heroes of warm-weather styling.
4.Block Heels
Equal parts statement and stability, block heels are the ultimate summer pairing for dresses that need a little height without the hassle. With bold silhouettes and all-day comfort, theyâre ideal for weddings, rooftop parties, or anytime you want to walk tall and look polished. ⨠Try: Bristol by Delicious (pictured) for platform elegance, W-Hallie by Delicious for sleek sophistication, or Cake by City Classified for a chunky retro vibe.
5.Comfortable Slides
Summer dresses call for easygoing style, and slides deliver just thatâno buckles, no fuss, just slip-on charm. Perfect for casual looks or dressed-down elegance, they pair effortlessly with flowy silhouettes or shorter hems. ⨠Try: Daisy by Olivia (pictured) for everyday polish, Zeal by Soda for subtle sparkle, or Value by Soda for relaxed versatility.
6.Strappy Sandals
The perfect summer dress deserves the perfect understated finish. Strappy sandals add elegance and lightness to any look, letting fabrics flow and silhouettes shine without distraction. Sleek and barely-there, theyâre ideal for warm evenings and daytime charm. ⨠Try: Tinder by Olivia (pictured) for subtle drama, Marilyn by Olivia for stiletto flair, or Flowing by Soda for simplicity with just enough edge.
7.Statement Sneakers
No heels? No problem. Sneakers add a cool, laid-back vibe to summer dresses without sacrificing style. Bold colors or a touch of sparkle can transform a romantic silhouette into something fresh and fashion-forward.
The Bottom Line
The best shoe-dress pairings donât just matchâthey make the outfit. Whether you're going glam or staying grounded, find your perfect pairing right here in our collection.
đ Inspired by the article âThese Are the Best Shoes To Wear With Dresses, According to Celebrity Stylistsâ by Alyssa Rotunno, first published on Parade.com and featured on Yahoo Style & Beauty June 29, 2025
