Ultimate Edit of Comfortable and Versatile Party Shoes for the Festive Season by UK Personal Stylist

Over the last few weeks I've helped many ladies plan their festive outfits and one crucial element that is often overlooked is the shoes. Your footwear is the cornerstone of your outfit, capable of making or breaking your entire look. I often recommend dressing from the bottom up, especially if you struggle with the fit of shoes. Comfort is paramount, as there's nothing worse than enduring shoes that rub and result in sore feet when you're trying to enjoy yourself!

Frequently, we hold onto evening shoes, often the least worn items in our wardrobes, burdened by guilt for the money spent on them. We keep them ‘just in case’ or for the memories of the evenings we have enjoyed in them. However, when the opportunity to go out arises, our instinct is to invest in new clothing, neglecting the reality that we can no longer comfortably walk in the shoes hidden at the back of our wardrobe!

Criteria for the Perfect Party Shoe

When searching for the ideal party shoe, consider these essential criteria:

Versatility: Choose a shoe that complements a variety of outfits.
Reusability: Opt for a shoe that can be worn again for different occasions.
Comfort without Frumpiness: Find a balance between comfort and style; your shoes should be comfortable without sacrificing style.
Dance-Worthy: A great party shoe allows you to dance the night away without discomfort.

How do I make sure that the colour of my shoes work with my outfit, is black the safest colour?

While black is a go-to choice for many, it may not always be the most flattering or versatile colour. It can create an unbalanced look with lighter-colored outfits and can starkly contrast with nude legs. Consider a more versatile option, such as a nude shade closest to your skin tone or a metallic hue, that will act as a neutral that complements any colour. I have a pair of blushed nude sandals that I bought in the McArthur Glenn Clarks Outlet a few years ago which have worn for numerous weddings and Christmas parties as they just work with so much. I don’t go out enough to justify buying any further evening shoes as my current ones work with almost everything.

How do I make sure that my shoes work with my outfit?

When choosing the perfect shoes for your party outfits, it's crucial to consider three elements: colour, weight, and style aesthetic. I’ve mentioned colour above. Weight is another essential factor that is often overlooked. The weight of your shoes should align with the formality of the occasion and the overall aesthetic of your outfit. Delicate strappy sandals are a fashionable choice with a lightweight satin camisole dress or skirt, whilst a platform would balance the weight of a circle skirt. Finding the right balance ensures a cohesive and polished look.

Style aesthetic ties everything together. Choose shoes that resonate with the overall vibe of your outfit. If you’re aiming for classic elegance, consider a timeless court or a jewelled pointed shoe. For more eclectic or trendy ensembles, consider statement shoes with unique details or bold colours. The key is to create a harmonious blend that showcases your personality and complements the theme of the event.

Can I wear tights with open toe shoes or is this a fashion faux paus?

Whilst some people choose to make a statement by wearing tights with sandals, this may not be a look that you personally like. For a subtler look, opt for toeless tights. They provide the perfect compromise, allowing you to wear open-toe shoes without sacrificing the warmth and blurring effect of tights. I’ve bought them from M&S for years, but they don’t always have them in stock in store (as I once discovered after relying on this before a night out!) so I’d advise ordering them online before an event. Pretty Polly and Next sell them too.

The Best Party Shoes to Invest In

Here’s my pick of the best party shoes, ensuring both comfort and versatility. Most are available in different colourways. Simply click the image to shop the shoes through my Moonsift board: