Women’s Dressy Sandals

When you are shopping for a dressy sandal it’s rarely ever a snap. Although there are many choices from simple wedges to daring stilettos, a sandal for an elegant occasion must express a woman’s individuality and sense of style, and must enhance her outfit and her own individual beauty. And nothing builds your look more than feeling comfortable in pieces that really work and are a good fit. They have to look perfect, but they have to be comfortable too, so read these tips before you buy.

Dressy Sandals

Buy your outfit first

There are literally millions of styles, options and colors available in women’s dressy sandals, so it’s going to be very hard to choose until you’re sure what you’re looking for. Get that outfit first, and note the color and cut of your hemline before you shop. Depending on the occasion, neutral colors such as black, white or taupe can be safe choices but there might be an even better color or model to match your overall style.

Stay on target

Think about the fabric weight and pattern of your outfit. Heavier straps and thicker heels might not work with light, floaty hemlines. Sparkles and gems are fun but they may not be appropriate with certain styles. Keep the feel of your dressy sandal in sync with the overall look you’re trying to achieve.

Stilettos

Get a good fit

Before you shop, make sure you have a good measurement of both your feet! Many people don’t have feet that match as exactly as their shoes, and might even buy two sizes of the same shoe if it’s more comfortable for them. Sandals give your feet a little extra breathing room, but shoes that are too small can make any occasion a misery. Also, don’t forget that different manufacturers sometimes use different sizing guidelines, so err on the side of going one size up rather than one size down. If your size is not available and you love the shoe, work with the seller: Maybe there’s another source.

You don’t need six-inch stillettos to look sexy

Tall stilettos are a great look, but if you plan to be on your feet for a while, you might want to look at a lower heel. Heels that are about two inches still lengthen the calf and slim the ankle, but they’re much easier to walk in and less likely to cause your feet to need a soak at the end of the night. You can try kitten heels or wedge styles, both of which enhance a shapely leg but don’t require extra walking practice to wear.

Kitten Heels

Opt for leather

Leather is the shoe material of choice for good reasons. It has a bit of “give”, will mold and stretch to your foot contours, offers soft comfort and will last much longer and “wear in” with time. If you’re against leather for personal reasons, then the second choice is any type of durable fabric for comfort and wearability, such as a dressed-up canvas, or satin. Be careful of plastics – natural materials can usually be mended by a craftsman, but if you have a plastic shoe that’s ripped or cracked, you may not be able to bring it back to wearable condition.

What you pay for is what you get!

The only way a shoe manufacturer can afford to ask an amazingly low price for a shoe is make it cost less money to make. Cheaper materials, plastics and PVC’s might look good the first few times but they will not last as long or be as comfortable. Soles and uppers should be padded and made of the best materials. Even if you only plan to be in them for one night, you’ll feel the difference with a better-made pair.

Wedges

Balance is key

Think about your overall body shape. Are you an average to larger-sized person or a slip of a thing? Your shoes enhance your look when they balance your body. If your ankles are tiny, thick straps will look severe and too heavy, making you appear weighed down. One classic style rule: dressy sandal straps should not be wider than the width of your index finger. But if you have thicker ankles or calves, a slim strap won’t show up on your body or enhance your look.

Top designers can inspire you

Scope out what the top designers are making in their shoe lines. The great draw of top designer shoes is that they know what looks good on a woman’s foot. You might not be able to afford a pair of runway-ready shoes right now but you’re better off not going for cheap knockoffs and simply studying what you like about a designer model. Do you like an ankle strap? Kitten heels? A certain color? Use designer lines to inspire your own creativity.

Other style tips:

Go for neutral colors with if your outfit has bright or large patterns. Your shoes shouldn’t compete with your dress for attention. Seasonally, a neutral taupe is a good choice for warmer months. Black will work almost every time when it gets chillier. The shape and thickness of the heel will make a difference in how people view your ensemble. Typically thicker heels are associated with the office, and slimmer, taller heels with elegant events. Though it’s entirely a personal choice, a lighter evening gown will probably not be enhanced by a pair of chunky wedge heels; and slim, spangled stilettos may not work for work.

Finally: Be yourself!

Trends and fads come and go. Your sister or your boyfriend might like a certain style or look, but do you? You might have seen a shoe on a movie star or in a music video, or there might be a style that’s hot in the fashion magazines this year, but unless you like it and feel good wearing it, you probably won’t wear it more than once. Be creative and celebrate your individuality – after all, you’re the one who has to walk in your shoes!