How to Choose the Best Comfortable Shoes to Wear with Formal Dresses

Whether you’ve got your eye on a classic, elegant pump or a sexy or dramatic evening shoe, there’s one important factor you shouldn’t overlook.

Since a formal event will have you spending a lot of time on your feet, wearing comfortable shoes is crucial. You want to enjoy your special evening, not think about how badly your feet hurt!

Here are a few additional factors to consider when selecting the perfect shoes for formal dresses to enhance your look.

Different Types of Formal Dresses

The type of formal dress you wear will affect your choice of shoes. For example, if you opt for a floor-length gown made of lace, wearing shoes with sharp crystals or embellishments is not a good idea, as they can catch and snag the lace. The best shoes would be smooth.

If you’re new to choosing formal dresses and putting together a dressy evening outfit, let’s break down the 3 most common traditional dress styles.

• Traditional ballgowns typically have a fitted top with a large, flared-out skirt.
• A-line gowns are also more fitted at the top and don’t flare out until the hips, but they have a smaller skirt.
• Mermaid gowns have a curvaceous silhouette and are fitted down the body to just below the knees.

Once you’ve selected the type of formal dress you’ll wear, it’s time to find comfortable dress shoes to pair it with.

Your average pair of heels isn’t necessarily going to have the highest level of arch support or super-cushioned footbeds. However, there are stylish evening shoes that provide comfort and stability throughout your event.

Dress shoes have come a long way in terms of comfort. Order a few pairs online, try them on, and walk around the house with them. Make sure they fit well and feel comfy before you decide they are the ones. Be sure to wear them a little before the big event to avoid blisters.

Event Dress Code

Another factor to consider when selecting the best shoes to pair with your formal gown is the dress code for the event. Check the invitation for a wedding or another special occasion to see if a ress code is specified.

Some invitations may suggest a heel height or preferred style. Or they could say something like,”“ e ready to break it down on the dance floor,” or “The reception is a bit of a walk from the ceremony,” so you will want to adjust your shoes accordingly.

Remember, this isn’t your first prom night, so avoid choosing shoes that are difficult to walk in, even if you love the style. You don’t want to slip and fall in a long, elegant formal gown!

Heel Height

Choosing the right heel height is key. First, think about how comfortable you are wearing pumps in general. Then, consider the length of your dress and how high a heel you’ll need. Finally, note the event location (indoor or outdoor) and choose the best heel for stability.

Some of the most common types of heels that women wear to formal events are kitten heels, slingbacks, platform heels, pointed-toe heels with ankle straps for support or without a strap, stilettos (which are typically 3-5 inch high heels), wedges, and sometimes you can even get away with chic ballet flats.

A chunky heel or even a wedge can be very comfortable, even when you want extra height.

Avoid These Uncomfortable Shoes.y

Walking in skinny stiletto heels on patio stones or over wooden walkways at an outdoor event is a nightmare. You don’t want your heel to break in the cracks.

Backless shoes can be a disaster, too. It can be uncomfortable to step out of your shoes accidentally!

Shoes with tiny, thin straps offer little support, making it easy to slide out of the side of your shoe and twist your ankle. Strappy heels can also cut into your feet and make your skin bleed. That’s painful and not a good look!

Best Colors for Shoes for Formal Dresses

The color and fabric of your dress also influence the type of shoes to wear.

The main rule of thumb is that if your dress is black, navy, or any other solid color, use this as an opportunity to wear a shoe that pops. Something with crystals, sequins, or different bright colors looks fabulous.

On the other hand, if your outfit already has a lot going on, a comfortable pair of black shoes or something in a neutral color scheme would complement your outfit better.

What Shoes Should You Not Wear With a Formal Dress

Now that you know how to choose comfortable shoes for your formal dress, let’s discuss a few things that can quickly detract from the chic factor of your outfit. Footwear such as ankle boots, sneakers, flip-flops, loafers, and knee-high boots is often too casual and should not be worn with a formal dress.

What Else Do You Wear With a Formal Dress?

Once you have selected your evening gown and some comfortable dress shoes, it’s time to elevate your outfit with the perfect accessories.

Jewelry, a clutch bag, and other refined evening accessories will make your outfit look glamorous. The goal is to make your outfit stand out without being too over-the-top. Think elegant and classy. Often, less is more when it comes to creating the perfect outfit for a formal event.

For more inspiration and ideas on creating the perfect formal outfit, refer to some of my other posts.

Formal Dresses for Women Over 40

What Color Shoes to Wear With a Gold Dress?

Velvet Cocktail Dresses to Wear to Glam Holiday Parties.

Meet the author

Deborah Boland

Deborah, a former Fashion & Lifestyle TV host and Image Consultant, understands the style challenges women face in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. As the founder of Fabulous After 40, she helps women tweak their chic and embrace fashion with confidence—so they always look and feel amazing.

Learn More About Deborah Explore Her Latest Posts