Fall is here, and it is time to break out the cool weather wardrobe. But that doesn't mean you have to store away all of your cute shoes. Fall dresses can pair wonderfully with some, but probably not all, of the heels you already have in your closet.
Here are some heels you will want to have in your collection this fall.
Short Dress with Leggings or Tights
Tights and leggings are not to be worn as pants, but they sure look great under a short or mid-length dress! This is a great way to transition a favorite summer piece into fall: just add leggings and a sweater or wrap. The variety of colors and patterns available is absolutely astounding, so you'll be able to match any outfit.
A dress paired with leggings is just as versatile when it comes to shoe choices. Tall boots or short boots, known as "booties," are the go-to, fashionable look, and there are beautiful high heel options for both styles. If you're especially daring, try a pair of over-the-knee boots, like this pair by Zigi Soho. Avoid wearing pumps, as they can leave your outfit looking a little unfinished. A boot or heel with an ankle strap anchors the look and helps tights stay put.
Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
Who doesn't love this classic look, made iconic by Diane Von Furstenberg? The universally flattering style should be a staple in every woman's closet. Throw it on with your favorite pair of pumps, and you're out the door. These dresses also look wonderful with a pair of wedges. The casual feel of a wedge can dress down an otherwise formal style, so you have more opportunity to wear your favorite wrap. These wedges by Jessica Simpson would look perfect with a solid color or pattern dress and will be comfortable all day.
You can also dress up the look of a solid color dress by pairing it with a stylish, patterned pump. Find a pattern with your dress color as an accent to add interest, or choose a pattern with brighter, complementary colors to really give your outfit a punch! A higher heel will add more drama, but look for a lower heel style if you plan to be on your feet for any extended length of time.
Sweater Dress
The sweater dress is the coziest way to look completely fashion-forward. These dresses come in lots of styles, so there is a lookout there for everyone. They are also easy to accessorize with belts, tights, scarves, and jewelry. You can easily change the look and wear it all the time. If you're stuck in a style rut, there is plenty of inspiration out there to find a fresh new way of wearing the same piece.
Sweater dresses look their best when paired with tall boots or booties. Wearing a pump or wedge can seem incongruous since the dress is a heavier, warmer look. Textured styles pair especially well with sweater dresses. Boots with rouched suede, contrast panels, or a stylish buckle look great on everyone. Styles with stacked heels, such as these by Franco Sarto, are just as comfortable and casual as a wedge.
Start with the Shoe
Have a new pair of shoes and want to show them off? It's easy to choose the perfect outfit to flaunt your new heels. Here are some examples of fresh styles with the best dresses to pair them:
- Cowboy-style boot or bootie: This style can be tricky to pull off with a dress. Don't get paranoid about creating a Western-themed outfit - go with it! Choose a natural waist, knee-length dress with a full skirt and throw a denim jacket over it. With such a strong clothing statement, keep jewelry to a minimum.
- Tall, stretch calf boot with stiletto heel: This sleek style is perfect for creating a classy-yet-sexy evening outfit. Pair these boots with a sleek, body-con sweater dress for maximum wow factor.
- Lace-up suede bootie: It's impossible to pair such a casual style with a dress, right? Of course not! Put on those booties with a casual, belted shirtdress or chunky knit sweater dress for comfort and style.
- Black leather pump: You can pair nearly any dress with such a classic choice. Wear them with your formal dresses or put them on with a work dress to add a little polish. Try not to wear them with thick tights to avoid uncomfortable sliding and bunching.
Conclusion
Fall may be a cooler season, but there is no reason to stick only to flats with your dresses. Remember your safety, though. You don't want to put on your heels and get a sprained ankle. If there are slick or icy conditions, it is a good idea to wear a shoe with a little more traction, and then change to your heels once you're secure inside. Have fun pairing the new season of dresses to the new season of shoes.
