What Shoes to Wear with a Pencil Dress
Pencil dress with high heels—are they a fashion dream team or a recipe for disaster? While many will debate the practicality, the truth is the right heels can make you look effortless. Whether you’re going for stilettos or kitten heels, here we look at the best options. Here you’ll find how to combine elegance and comfort, with celebrity examples to inspire your next look. Read on to find out how to wear your pencil dress.
Heels to wear with a Pencil Dress
Heels are an elegant match for pencil dresses, they add height and elegance. The slim silhouette of a pencil dress draws the eye to the legs and pairing it with heels draws that attention to the legs even more. High heels especially pencil heels are perfect with a pencil dress. Going for slightly shorter heels than usual can be helpful as the dress already adds some height. This combination lengthens the legs and looks sophisticated and polished.
Heels that work with a pencil dress:
-
Stilettos
-
Kitten heels
-
Block heels
-
Pointed-toe pumps
-
Strappy sandals
Celebrities show us how to wear heels with pencil dresses. Kim Kardashian and Karlie Kloss are sleek, they wear pencil skirts with stilettos to look polished. These high profile examples show us how heels can be worn in different settings, from red carpet to casual. For formal occasions stilettos and pointed-toe pumps are the go to for added elegance. For semi-formal strappy sandals and kitten heels are perfect, for style and comfort.
When wearing heels with a pencil dress consider the heel height and comfort. High heels can make you look great but make sure they’re comfortable for long wear. Block heels or kitten heels can add stability without sacrificing style. This balance of aesthetics and practicality means you can have both the look and feel of the outfit.
Choosing the Right Heels for Pencil Dresses
When it comes to pairing heels with pencil dresses, there are several factors to consider to ensure a perfect match. Here are some tips to help you choose the right heels for your pencil dress:
-
Consider the Occasion: If you’re wearing a pencil dress for a formal event, opt for high heels that make a statement. For a more casual occasion, you can choose lower heels or even flats. The occasion dictates the formality and style of the heels you should pair with your dress.
-
Think About the Colour: If you’re wearing a black pencil dress, you can pair it with heels of any colour. However, if you’re wearing a brightly coloured pencil dress, it’s best to stick with neutral-coloured heels to avoid overwhelming the look. Neutral tones like beige, black, or grey are versatile and can complement any dress.
-
Look at the Features: If your pencil dress has a lot of embellishments or details, you may want to choose heels that are simpler in design to avoid overwhelming the look. Conversely, a simple dress can be paired with more elaborate heels to add interest.
-
Check the Size: Make sure the heels you choose are comfortable and fit well with the dress. You don’t want to be adjusting your heels all night or worrying about them slipping off. Comfort is key, especially if you’ll be wearing the heels for an extended period.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that your heels complement your pencil dress perfectly, creating a cohesive and stylish look.
Pencil Dress Styles and Heel Pairings
Here are some popular pencil dress styles and heel pairing ideas:
-
Classic Colours: Pair a classic black pencil dress with a pair of high heels in a neutral colour like beige or navy. This combination is timeless and elegant, perfect for any occasion.
-
Closet London: Pair a pencil dress from Closet London with a pair of statement heels that feature bold buckles or straps. This brand is known for its chic and contemporary designs, so opt for heels that match this aesthetic.
-
Discount: If you’re looking for a discount, consider pairing a pencil dress with a pair of heels that are on sale. You can often find great deals on heels during end-of-season sales, allowing you to stay stylish without breaking the bank.
-
Colour: If you want to add some colour to your outfit, pair a brightly coloured pencil dress with a pair of heels in a matching colour. This creates a bold and cohesive look that stands out.
-
Women: For a more feminine look, pair a pencil dress with a pair of heels that feature delicate straps or bows. These details add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your outfit.
-
Checkout: When checking out, make sure to consider the overall look of your outfit and choose heels that complement the dress. Think about the occasion and the impression you want to make.
-
First Order: If it’s your first time ordering heels online, consider choosing a pair that is versatile and can be paired with multiple outfits. This ensures you get the most value out of your purchase.
-
Account: If you have an account with a shoe brand, consider logging in to see if you have any rewards or discounts available. This can help you save money on your purchase.
-
Brand: Consider the brand of the heels and whether they are known for their quality and comfort. Investing in a reputable brand can ensure you get a pair of heels that are both stylish and durable.
-
Page: When searching for heels online, use specific keywords like “pencil dress heels” or “high heels for pencil dresses” to find relevant results. This can help you narrow down your options and find the perfect pair.
-
Search: Use the search function on a shoe website to find heels that match your specific criteria, such as colour, size, and style. This makes the shopping process more efficient.
-
Occasion: Consider the occasion and choose heels that are appropriate for the event. Whether it’s a formal event or a casual outing, the right heels can enhance your outfit.
-
Pair: Pair your pencil dress with heels that complement the style and colour of the dress. This creates a cohesive and polished look.
-
Opt: Opt for heels that are comfortable and fit well, as you’ll likely be wearing them for an extended period. Comfort is just as important as style.
-
Features: Consider the features of the heels, such as the height, material, and style, and choose a pair that complements the dress. The right features can enhance the overall look of your outfit.
-
Size: Make sure to choose heels that are the right size for your feet, as ill-fitting heels can be uncomfortable and affect the overall look of the outfit. Proper fit is essential for both comfort and style.
-
Perfect: The perfect pair of heels can elevate a pencil dress and create a stunning outfit. Take the time to find the right pair that complements your dress and personal style.
-
Sort: Sort through different heel options and choose a pair that fits your style and budget. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect pair for your pencil dress.
By following these tips and pairing ideas, you can create stylish and cohesive outfits with your pencil dresses and heels.
Flats to wear with a Pencil Dress
Flats are versatile and comfortable when worn with pencil dresses. They’re a stylish and practical option for those who don’t want to wear heels. Flats can be worn with both casual and semi-formal outfits. Leather flats are a great option that can add to the overall look and be comfortable. Flats with black tights and a denim pencil skirt is a chic and laid back look. Flats don’t compromise the slim silhouette of a pencil dress so they’re perfect for many occasions. Flats that work with a pencil dress:
-
Ballet flats
-
Loafers
-
Pointed-toe flats
-
D’Orsay flats
-
Slip-on sneakers
For casual wear go for ballet flats or slip-on sneakers. These are easy to move around in and relaxed. With a casual pencil dress like denim or cotton you get an effortless look. For semi-formal pointed-toe flats or d’Orsay flats add a bit of sophistication. Loafers are also a great option, comfort and style for office wear and smart-casual events.
Boots to wear with Pencil Dresses
Boots add a fashion statement when worn with pencil dresses especially during the cold seasons. They’re warm and stylish, practical and fashionable. Leather boots, calf length or tall, add high fashion to the slim silhouette of a pencil dress. Ankle boots are versatile, for casual and semi-formal. Vintage boots go well with retro pencil dresses, for a chic and nostalgic look. Boots are structured and pencil dresses are fitted, they look great together.
Boots that work with a pencil dress:
-
Ankle boots
-
Knee-high boots
-
Combat boots
-
Lace-up boots
-
Heeled boots
Boot and pencil dress combinations are a staple in fashion magazines and runways. A pencil dress with knee-high boots is a striking and elegant look for autumn and winter. Combat boots with a pencil dress is an edgy look, often seen in street style. Lace-up boots add a vintage touch, perfect for retro dresses. Heeled boots keep the dress elegant and adds height. These combinations show the versatility and style of boots with pencil dresses.
When wearing boots with a pencil dress, consider the boot height and style according to the dress length. Ankle boots with shorter dresses, knee-high boots with midi or longer dresses. Heeled boots can add sophistication to any outfit but make sure they are comfortable for long wear. Lace-up and combat boots have a unique style but pair with simpler dresses to not overwhelm the look. This balance is key to a great outfit.
Sandals to wear with Pencil Dresses
Sandals are great for summer and formal events with a pencil dress. High heel sandals, especially those with 5cm and above, can create a slimming effect on the body and add a touch of elegance. Silver or gold sandals add a touch of formality and sophistication, perfect for evening events or special occasions. Strappy sandals with ankle cuffs not only provide a secure fit but also make the legs look great, drawing attention to the slim silhouette of the pencil dress. Gladiator sandals offer a trendy and edgy look, while wedge sandals add height and comfort. Flat sandals are more casual but can still be stylish if chosen well. Sandals that work with a pencil dress:
-
High-heel sandals
-
Strappy sandals
-
Gladiator sandals
-
Wedge sandals
-
Flat sandals
When wearing sandals with pencil dresses, consider the occasion and the overall look. For casual occasions, flat sandals or simple strappy designs work well, especially with cotton or denim pencil dresses. For formal occasions, go for high-heel or metallic sandals to elevate the look. Gladiator sandals can add a statement to simpler dresses. Wedge sandals are perfect for outdoor events where comfort and stability are key. Always make sure the sandals match the dress style and color to look great together.
Colour Matching Tips for Shoes and Pencil Dresses in Classic Colours
Colour matching is key when wearing shoes with a pencil dress to create a cohesive look. The right colour combination will make the overall look great and polished. If your pencil dress has bold or bright prints, go for neutral coloured shoes. Neutral colours like beige, black or grey won’t compete with the dress and let the dress be the focal point. For a more coordinated look, you can wear bright coloured shoes with a dress of almost the same colour, a monochrome look. This will elongate the body and look sleek and streamlined.
Colour pairing tips for pencil dresses:
-
Neutral colours for bold dresses
-
Monochrome looks
-
Metallic shoes for a subtle statement
-
Contrasting colours for a pop
-
Patterned shoes for added interest
Great colour combinations can elevate your overall look. For example, navy pencil dress with nude heels is balanced and elegant. Red pencil dress with black or gold shoes is perfect. Metallic shoes like silver or gold is for evening events, a subtle yet striking statement without overpowering the dress. Contrasting colours like yellow dress with purple shoes is playful and dynamic. Patterned shoes like animal prints or polka dots is great with solid coloured dresses.
To avoid common colour coordination mistakes, make sure your shoes don’t clash with your dress. Don’t wear highly patterned shoes with equally busy dresses, it will look disjointed. Stick to one statement piece – either the dress or the shoes – and keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple. This will look harmonious and stylish.
Seasonal Shoe Options for Pencil Dresses
Winter is for pairing pencil dresses with boots for warmth and style. Knee-high boots is good for lukewarm winter weather, covers and looks sleek. Ankle boots is another great option, especially with tights. The structured nature of boots matches the fitted design of pencil dresses, looks balanced and polished. Spring is the time to wear pencil dresses with flats and sandals. Ballet flats and loafers is a comfortable yet stylish option for this transitional season. As the weather warms up, strappy sandals is a great option, adds elegance without sacrificing comfort. These options will maintain the slim silhouette of the pencil dress and allows for movement. Summer is the time to wear strappy sandals and wedges with pencil dresses. High-heel sandals especially those with 5cm and above can create a slimming effect. Wedges is good for shorter dresses like midi dresses, balances the overall silhouette and adds height and comfort. Flat sandals is more casual but can still be stylish if chosen well. Autumn is for ankle boots and loafers to wear with pencil dresses. Ankle boots is a versatile option that can be dressed up or down, perfect for casual and semi-formal occasions. Loafers is a combination of comfort and style, perfect for office wear or smart-casual events. These options will keep you stylish as you adapt to the cooler weather. Seasonal shoe tips for different pencil dress styles:
-
Knee-high boots for winter
-
Ballet flats for spring
-
Strappy sandals for summer
-
Wedges for summer
-
Ankle boots for autumn
Adapting your shoe choices to the season and weather is key to being comfortable and stylish. Choosing the right shoes not only enhances your outfit but also prepares you for the different temperatures and conditions throughout the year.
Occasional Shoes for Pencil Dresses
Choosing the right shoes for evening events and parties is important for a pencil dress. For special occasions, avoid black pumps as it looks like work attire. Instead, go for metallic shoes like gold or silver to make a subtle statement. Metallic heels adds glamour and sophistication, perfect for the sleek lines of a pencil dress. Embellished sandals is another great option, a combination of elegance and sparkle perfect for festive gatherings. Elegant pumps with delicate details can also elevate the outfit, adds refinement. Statement heels with unique design or bold colours can make the outfit stand out, a memorable impression. Sophisticated loafers is a stylish yet comfortable option for more laid-back events, you’ll be chic without sacrificing comfort.
Special occasion shoes:
-
Metallic heels
-
Embellished sandals
-
Elegant pumps
-
Statement heels
-
Sophisticated loafers
Celebrities and influencers show us how to style pencil dresses for special occasions. For example, Kim Kardashian pairs her pencil dresses with metallic heels, makes the outfit look elegant and cohesive. Blake Lively is known for her bold choices, she often goes for statement heels that adds a unique twist to her look. Olivia Palermo is a fan of embellished sandals, adds a sparkle that catches the eye. These celebrity examples shows that the right shoes can turn a pencil dress into a showstopper for any occasion. Take cue from these style icons and you’ll be fashionably and occasionally dressed.
To be comfortable and stylish during long events, consider the heel height and fit of your shoes. High heels can make the look but should be comfortable enough for long wear. Go for shoes with cushioned insoles or ankle straps for added stability and comfort. This balance of style and practicality so you can enjoy the event without sacrificing style.
How to Pair Shoes with Pencil Dress for Work
Style and comfort is key when pairing shoes with a pencil dress for a work environment. Pencil skirts are figure-slimming and versatile, perfect for any occasion including work. Comfortable work shoes should be both beautiful and practical. Low-heeled pumps is a classic choice, polished look without sacrificing comfort. Loafers is a combination of formality and ease, perfect for long workdays. Ballet flats is another comfortable option, sleek look that matches the streamlined silhouette of a pencil dress. Block heels adds stability and can be worn for hours without discomfort. Stylish brogues adds sophistication and perfect for those who want a more androgynous look. Shoe options for work:
-
Low-heeled pumps
-
Loafers
-
Ballet flats
-
Block heels
-
Stylish brogues
To be comfortable throughout the day without sacrificing style, go for shoes with cushioned insoles and arch support. So your feet won’t get tired even after long hours. Choose breathable materials like leather or high quality synthetics to reduce fatigue. By balancing fit and comfort you’ll have a professional and stylish look from morning meetings to after work events.
Casual Weekend Shoes for Pencil Dresses
For a weekend look, pencil dresses can be styled with casual shoes. Go for more relaxed footwear so you can be comfortable without sacrificing style. Athleisure shoes like sneakers or low-top trainers gives a modern and sporty vibe that matches the structured silhouette of a pencil dress. Slip-on shoes and casual flats is easy to wear and clean minimalist look. When you want beachy or summer feel, espadrilles is the way to go, adds a touch of casual elegance. These shoe options allows you to transition from day to night, so your weekend outfits will be practical and stylish.
Casual shoe options for pencil dresses:
-
Sneakers
-
Slip-on shoes
-
Casual flats
-
Espadrilles
-
Low-top trainers
To style a weekend look with a pencil dress, pair it with a denim jacket or an oversized cardigan for comfort and style. Add accessories like crossbody bag or statement necklace to level up the look. Go for neutral or pastel colours shoes to keep the outfit cohesive and versatile. This way you’ll have a stylish and relaxed look for any casual occasion.
Conclusion
So there you have it, shoes to wear with pencil dresses for every occasion.
From high heels for elegance to flats for comfort, each shoe has its own benefits. Boots, sandals, and season and special occasion shoes add more options to your shoe choices.
The right shoe matches the pencil dress perfectly, you’ll look good and feel good.
Now you know, choosing the right shoes for your pencil dress is easy.
Q&A
What shoes to wear with pencil dress?
Pencil dresses go with high heels, flats, boots and sandals. It depends on the occasion and your comfort.
How to wear pencil dress?
To wear a pencil dress, wear shoes that matches its style, high heels for elegance, flats for comfort or boots for fashion. Accessorize minimally and stand tall.
Can I wear flat shoes with pencil skirt?
Yes, you can wear flat shoes with a pencil skirt. Ballet flats, loafers and pointed-toe flats is a chic and comfortable look.
What to wear under pencil dress?
Under a pencil dress, wear seamless underwear or shapewear to smooth out the lines and no visible panty lines.