Can You Wear Open-Toe Shoes With Formal Dresses?

Sarah Jessica Parker pairs her cocktail dress with open-toe pumps.

Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Going somewhere fancy and want to look amazing? Finding the perfect formal dress is tough. Once you've snagged your go-to dress, you've got more obstacles ahead. Styling your frock is just as important as picking out the right one, especially when it comes to your shoes. If you're not sure if open-toe shoes are appropriate for your formal dress, don't worry. It's not too hard to master the look.

The Low Down

Yup, you can definitely wear your formal dress with open-toe shoes. If you're not looking to wear a pump but don't want to rock a strappy sandal, the open-toe shoe is the perfect go-to that gives you the best of both worlds. So show off a bit of your fab manicure without exposing your whole foot and feel free to wear your dress with an open-toe shoe.

One Rule

Just because open-toes are OK, doesn't mean every type of shoe works. These days tons of different shoes come in peep-toe styles. Stay away from open-toe boots which look too casual for a formal dress. You're also probably going to want a heel, so save your open-toe flats for another time.

Types to Wear

Now that you know what types of open-toe shoes won't work, it's time to learn what kinds do. Since your dress if formal, stay away from a chunky heel. Instead opt for a thinner and more graceful shoe. Black open-toe pumps are always an easy option. If you want to make your look more interesting, try a metallic peep-toe, one in a more interesting fabric like suede or patent leather.

Using Your Shoes to Change Your Whole Look

Your shoes can completely change the aesthetic of your entire look. Want to go a little edgy? Try adding a studded shoe. Or, if you're wearing a neutral colored frock and want a pop of color, slip on a brightly-colored open-toe pump. Prints can be fun, too. Leopard print pumps look fantastic with a simple black dress. So, if you're working with a more basic frock, make it more fun and use your shoes to make the statement.

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