A floor-length dress hides most of your shoes, yet they still make or break the look. They set the hem, change your posture and decide whether you can stay on your feet all night. Here is what to wear with a maxi dress.
Heel height and hem length
Choose your shoes before you have a maxi dress hemmed, and wear them to any fitting. The ideal hem just grazes the floor or sits a centimetre above it in your chosen shoes, so you do not trip and the fabric does not drag. If you are petite and the dress is long, a higher heel or platform can avoid alterations altogether. Our measuring guide helps you choose the right size first.
The best shoe styles
- Strappy sandals: the classic choice for evening and summer maxis; delicate straps keep the look light.
- Platforms: add height without a steep angle, ideal for very long gowns and heavy fabrics.
- Block heels: stable on grass, gravel and dance floors, which makes them a smart pick for outdoor weddings.
- Flats: embellished sandals or ballet flats suit relaxed, flowing maxis and beach events. Have the hem adjusted for flats.
Avoid: chunky trainers or heavy boots with delicate chiffon, and stiletto heels on lawns.
By neckline and fabric
- Thigh-high slit: your shoes will show, so choose something polished, such as metallic strappy sandals.
- Strapless or off-shoulder: barely-there sandals echo the open neckline.
- High neck or long sleeves: pointed pumps or sleek platforms suit the covered, elegant line.
- Satin and sequins: metallic or satin shoes. Chiffon and tulle: fine straps and nude tones.
Makeup to match
With a long, dramatic dress, keep the face balanced: glowing skin, defined lashes and one focus, either a bold lip or a soft smoky eye. Match the mood: fresh and dewy for a summer maxi, more sculpted for a black-tie gown. For hair ideas, see our hairstyles by neckline guide.
The right bag
A small clutch or a mini bag on a chain keeps proportions elegant. Large shoulder bags break the long vertical line of a maxi.
Complete looks
- Garden wedding: a floral chiffon maxi, nude block heels, a woven clutch and gold earrings.
- Gala: a satin gown, silver platforms, a crystal clutch and a sleek bun. Read more in our black-tie guide.
- Summer party: a printed maxi, embellished flat sandals and a mini bag.
Browse our maxi dresses to find your next long dress.
