Did you know that matching your shoes with your hemline can change the way you look? Sara Shah & Katha Nauriyal tell you how to get it right
If you remember our article on matching your neckline with your necklace, you already know how important it is to strike a balance between every element of your outfit. You may have been in a situation where your outfit and shoe colour coordination is right on point, but something seemed amiss. It was probably because your shoes didn’t match your outfit. Here we tell you what dresses to pair with different shoes.
Ankle-length outfits
Slipping into a pair of flat ballet shoes is the easiest way to make casual attire look chic. They’re super comfortable and you won’t be squirming to take them off like you would a pair of high-heels. However, it isn’t wise to pair flat sole shoes with every outfit that you own. So, pick skinny trousers or jeans with these shoes, because a flared hemline can make your shoes look overwhelming. You can also wear them with a short dress or skirt that skims your knee.
Tea-length dresses
While stilettos work well with practically any hemline, they are best paired with a dress or a skirt with a tea-length hemline. These outfits end a few inches below your knee and a few inches above your ankle. Such hemlines can make you look stumpy and short, and will look unflattering on petite women. Pairing these with fancy stilettos can save you from this faux pas. Additionally, you must avoid wearing flats with such hemlines as they can make you appear shorter and make your ankles look chunkier. And, you get another reason to slip into your favourite heels!
Knee-length outfits
Knee length hemlines are often considered the most conservative hemlines, but they provide an edgy look to your overall attire. However, if you’re short, it’s best to stay away from this style. While a few inches either below or above your knees is great, if your hemline is right in the middle, it can look confusing and unfinished. And, if you choose flats with this style, it can look unattractive. So, make sure to pick a pair of high-heeled pumps as they can make you look taller. A good trick is to go for a pair of nude pumps that give the illusion of elongated pins.
Just above the knee
This hemline is a safe bet especially if you’re not looking to show too much skin. It is occasion-appropriate and definitely a versatile option to pick when in doubt. It goes well with both high-heels and flats for both day and night looks. Pick a beautiful pair of pumps, kitten heels or ballet flats with this style. A stunning pair of stilettos will make your legs look long. Make sure that you don’t pick heels with ankle straps as that can make you look stocky.
Miniskirts, shorts and mini dresses
Without a doubt, this style should be paired with high-heeled shoes or a pair of stilettos. Not only will this make you look chic and sophisticated, it will also make your legs look longer than they actually are. While flats can still be paired with shorts, it’s best to go for them only if you are tall and have long legs. And, since you are already going to be showing some skin, you might as well go all the way and ensure that they look good with a pair of heels. This is such a great hack to look sharp as well!