Styling a White Dress for Summer

 

A white dress is timeless — but knowing how to finish the look can feel surprisingly tricky. From worrying about marks to choosing the right shoes, it’s often the styling details that make or break the outfit.

This guide breaks down exactly how to choose the best sandals to wear with a white dress, whether you’re heading to the beach, brunch, or somewhere a little more polished.

Consider the Occasion and Setting

The most crucial aspect you need to consider is the occasion and setting? When and where will you be wearing the dress? This alone will affect many factors and, thus, affect your other outfit choices as well. If you are going to the beach, you will probably opt for a soft and comfortable white dress with simple silhouettes and thoughtful styling. 

On the other hand, if you're going to a professional business meeting, you will be wearing an entirely different kind of white dress, requiring completely different accessories. Therefore, you have to think about where you will be wearing your dress. 

This will then determine whether the dress is a floor-length gown or more of a midi dress or even a short dress. It will decide the material and design of the dress, where it could be frilly and ruffly or fitting and chic. Ultimately, all these factors will then help you decide on the perfect pair of sandals or heels to go with the dress.

Match Your Sandals to the Style of Dress

Arguably, your own fashion style can also be the essential aspect you need to consider. After all, your own style preference triumphs over the occasion and setting, and we love to break fashion rules around here. 

Nevertheless, the two don't have to be contrasting. Your style can complement the occasion and setting as well. Therefore, the next thing you need to think about is your own style. This will also play a significant role in determining the kind of dress you choose and the kind of accessories you pair with it. You could go for a simple style, boho, chic, minimalistic, and so on.

Create Balance with Accessories

Finally, it would be best if you thought about adding balance to your whole outfit. Again, this is not a hard and fast rule. If you like or feel better in a look that seems out of balance, by all means, go ahead. However, for others, this balance can make or break their outfit. 

Balance means creating harmony between the different colors of your outfit. If you are wearing different colored shoes, you can balance out your outfit by adding a matching belt or purse. 

Pair the Correct Sandal with Your White Dress

There's no doubt that white dresses look amazing. If you're a bit tanned these days, they can do wonders to compliment your skin. Their complete lack of color can give them a clean and fresh look. It can be a blank canvas for you to try other accessories. 

Black Sandals

Black → evening, city, contrast - When you think of white, the next thought is immediately black. White and black have been a classic combination since the beginning of time, and it's for a reason. They complement each other perfectly. Both stand out on their own while also highlighting the other color through the stark contrast. You can wear your black heels or black beaded sandals, depending on the occasion. 

Nude Sandals

Nude → elongating, minimal, polished - Nude sandals are another great option for a white dress or even other types of dresses. The closer the shade of the nude sandal is to your actual skin, the more it will blend in and essentially disappear from your feet. As a result, all of the spotlights will be on your white dress and your long legs. Nude sandals with white dresses are perfect for a casual or professional look.

Colorful Sandals

Colorful → statement, personality - When your dress is completely white and devoid of color, adding other bright colors to the mix can help create that contrast again and give your outfit an edge. You can wear a bright red stiletto or put on some jeweled sandals that bring a pop of color. 

White Sandals

White → summer, resort, tonal looks - White sandals can look fantastic with a white dress - who doesn't love that white on white look, which gives a softer and more elegant look. If you want to give off those innocent and graceful vibes, you can pair some white flat jeweled sandals or a sleek pair of white wedge sandals with your dress. You will stand out from the crowd with this look.

A white dress is one of the most versatile pieces you can own — and the right sandals simply finish the story. Whether you’re dressing for comfort, confidence, or impact, trust your instinct. Style should feel effortless, not restrictive.