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What Kind of Shoes Look Best with Maxi Skirts and Dresses?

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Maxi dresses and skirts are great for a number of reasons: They’re easy to throw on and they keep you cool in scorching-hot weather. But there’s one problem: What kind of shoes do you wear with them? Flats can feel frumpy with a longer silhouette, while heels can feel overly dressy. Whether you’re wearing your maxi to the office or to brunch, here are four shoe options to pair with this breezy summer style.

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woman wearing a long dress and wedges
Brian Dowling/getty images

Dressy (but Not Too Dressy): Espadrille Wedges

While heels or stilettos can look out of place with a breezy summer dress, espadrilles are a terrific option for dressing up while maintaining an air of cool. They’re key if your dress or skirt is particularly long and you need a comfortable lift.

Get the look: Fraiche by J dress ($98); Treasure & Bond wedges ($50); Steve Madden wedges ($90); Soludos wedges ($149); Stuart Weitzman wedges ($338)

woman wearing a long dress and flat sandals
EDWARD BERTHELOT/GETTY IMAGES

Daytime Casual: Strappy Sandals 

Introducing the ideal summer outfit. Paired with an easy daytime dress, flat strappy leather sandals are a no-brainer. Note that this might not work with longer frocks—or if you’re super petite—but with a style that hits right at your ankle, these simple sandals are your best friend.

Get the look: Vince Camuto dress ($119); Madewell sandals ($60); Sam Edelman sandals ($73); Cupcakes and Cashmere sandals ($110); Cole Haan sandals ($130); Valentino sandals ($475)

woman wearing a long dress and ankle boots
Timur Emek/getty images

Office-appropriate: Ankle Boots 

Some maxis can read too relaxed for a work setting. The solution to pulling one off at your nine-to-five? Style them with a blazer and ankle boots, which instantly adds a sophisticated spin on a typically beachy dress.

Get the look: Rhode dress ($213); Free People ankle boots ($178); Camper ankle boots ($199); Alice + Olivia ankle boots ($202); Kate Spade New York ankle boots ($348)

woman wearing a long skirt and sneakers
EDWARD BERTHELOT/GETTY IMAGES

Daytime Casual: Slip-on Sneakers

If flat sandals and a long dress or skirt feels a little too boho for your style, slip into a pair of cool comfy sneakers and bask in the effortlessly chic vibes you’re giving off. For maximum flattering effect, opt for a pair with a one- or two-inch platform to lengthen your legs a little bit. 

Get the look: Topshop skirt ($75); Naturalizer sneakers ($50); Vans sneakers ($55); Ugg sneakers ($100); Vince sneakers ($225)

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sarah stiefvater

Wellness Director

  • Oversees wellness content
  • PureWow's resident book reviewer
  • Has worked in lifestyle media for 11 years