The Best Shoes to Wear with a Dress This Summer

Dresses are one of my favorite things to wear in the summer; they’re cool, comfy, and always make me feel put together. But figuring out the right shoes to wear with them can take a little thought. Whether it’s a maxi, midi, or casual sundress, I’m breaking down the best shoes to pair with your summer favorites, especially if comfort matters (and let’s be real, it always does).

By the way, if you’re more of a pants kind of gurl (no judgment here!), I’ve got you covered, too. Check out this post on the best shoes to wear with every pant style in 2025. It’s one of my most-read for a reason!

Best Shoes to Wear with Casual Summer Dresses

Casual summer dresses, like t-shirt dresses, swing dresses, and linen shirt dresses, are staples in my warm-weather wardrobe. They’re easy, breezy, and just plain comfortable. You can find some of my favorite ones for women over 50 here. Wondering how to style them? Here’s what shoes to wear with them:

Flat Sandals

You just can’t go wrong with a good pair of flat sandals. Look for something with a little support if you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Neutral or metallic colors go with just about everything! Most of my sandals are nude, brown, or black! I love a classic slide sandal like this one, but a fun braided strap or buckle adds a little something-something.

Slip-On Sneakers

Yes, sneakers! I love a clean white sneaker with a simple dress. It gives off a sporty vibe that’s casual, but still pulled together. Perfect for travel days, sightseeing, or just keeping up with grandkids! You can find more great white tennis shoes to try in this post!

Espadrilles

If you want something a little dressier, espadrille flats or wedges are a great choice. They add a coastal touch and pair beautifully with cotton sundresses, shirt dresses, or anything with a little swing.

What Shoes to Wear with a Maxi Dress in Summer

How To Wear Maxi Dresses For Summer

Y’all know I love a good maxi dress in the summer. It feels elegant but comfy, and you don’t have to worry about your legs getting sunburned! But the wrong shoes can make a maxi feel frumpy or fussy.

Wedge Sandals

If your dress is on the longer side, a wedge sandal helps lift the hem just enough and gives your legs a longer look. I own this pair and they are SOOO cute! I even wear them with shorts and jeans! If you’re looking for comfort, shop for a pair like this with a little platform under the toe.

Strappy Flat Sandals

For a casual day, flat strappy sandals are my go-to. Look for styles that show a little skin (like minimal straps or thong styles) so the dress doesn’t feel weighed down.

Toe-Loop or Slide Sandals

These sandals are stylish and effortless, perfect for vacation dinners or patio lunches. They give you that “I tried but didn’t try too hard” vibe.

Shoes That Look Great with Midi Dresses

Midi dresses are having a moment, but they can be tricky depending on where they hit your leg. The right shoes help elongate your legs and balance the look.

Block-Heel Sandals

If I need a little height but don’t want to teeter around, I go for a block-heel sandal. They’re great with flowy or more tailored midi styles, and you can wear them all day without needing a foot massage later.

Slide Sandals or Mules

Slide sandals with a bit of a sole or a small wedge are perfect for midi dresses. I especially love ones with raffia or leather textures, they feel seasonal and elevated.

Pointed-Toe Flats

A pointed-toe flat gives you polish without a heel, and the pointed toe helps extend the line of your leg. Great for when you’re heading somewhere just a little dressy but still want to keep things grounded (pun intended).

What Shoes to Wear with a Sundress

Sundresses are the ultimate summer uniform. They’re light, feminine, and make getting dressed easy. Here are my top picks for what shoes to wear with them:

Birkenstocks or Comfort Slides

If I’m headed to the farmer’s market or walking around downtown, I grab my comfy slides or Birkenstocks. Don’t knock ’em, they’ve come a long way, and they go perfectly with tiered cotton sundresses and flowy gauze fabrics. You can even find quality lookalikes for a super affordable price!

Raffia or Woven Sandals

These Sandals scream summer and pair beautifully with everything from florals to eyelet. Plus, the natural textures look especially good with straw bags and sun hats.

Low Heeled Mules

Need something you can slide into and go? Low-heeled mules dress up a sundress just enough for a summer date night or casual backyard party.

Shoes to Wear with a Summer Dress to a Wedding or Special Event

If you’ve got a summer wedding, baby shower, or garden party on your calendar, you might need something a little dressier. But gurl, we’re not wearing six-inch heels anymore. We want cute and comfortable, yes, it’s possible!

P.S. Need summer wedding dress ideas? Check out: What to Wear to a Summer Wedding for Women Over 50 and Simple, Elegant Dresses for Wedding Guests Over 50

Kitten Heel Sandals

These kitten heel sandals give you just enough elevation without the wobble. Look for a slingback or ankle strap to keep them secure if you’ll be walking on grass.

Dressy Sandals

You can still feel dressed up in a dressy flat sandal. Try a metallic, embellished, or pointed-toe option for something that feels polished and party-ready.

Wedges (Again!)

Wedge Sandals work just as well for special events as they do for casual days. A nice neutral wedge with a more structured dress is an easy win.

What are your favorite shoes to wear with dresses?

Each time you share my posts on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, AND FACEBOOK, it not only helps other ladies who might be style-challenged find my blog, but it also strengthens our community. Furthermore, I appreciate every one of you and consider you a friend.

Are You One Of The GURLS?

You’ll receive a daily email reminder from me, keeping you updated when a new blog post is published. Additionally, a special email might occasionally appear in your inbox, so be sure to keep an eye out for it.

To GOD Goes The Glory!

Verse Of The Day

Ephesians 4:4-6 (NIV)
⁴ There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; ⁵ one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶ one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.