While styling a neutral-colored dress should typically be easy, a navy number is undoubtedly an exception. For one, wearing the hue with black has long been considered a fashion faux pas, and although we think that rule doesn’t apply to every situation, you may find the look might still fall flat.
To help make your search for the perfect parings a cinch, we’ve pulled inspiration from some of our favorite retailers to bring you top shoe selection to wear with every type of navy dress. Whether you’re hitting a casual brunch with friends or a fancier cocktail soiree, these head-to-toe looks will be sure to impress.
Leather Knee-High Boots
Slouchy black knee-high boots can anchor a bohemian dress. Plus, the look is a little more covered up for when temperatures start to drop.
![One More Time Shimmer Midi Wrap Dress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/e6aa3c7b-82dd-4f37-8e6c-9794faf5f725-2-1.jpeg)
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![Sol Sana Waverly Boot](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/sol-sana-slouch-boots-1.jpg)
Nude Square-Toe Sandals
It’s always safe to reach for a neutral-colored shoe (a nude color can complement with just about anything in your closet, including a navy dress). We love the look of a strappy square-toe sandal paired with a button-down dress for a retro-inspired look.
![Reformation Palma Belted Dress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/reformation-palma-belted-dress.jpeg)
![Nine West Longitano Heel Sandal](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/nine-west-square-toe-heels-1.jpg)
Black Mules
The best thing about black mules is that they can transition between casual and more formal looks: They’re sleek enough to pair well with a party dress, but they can also worn with a more laidback maxi.
![Ninety Percent Ruched Jersey Maxi Dress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/ruched-jersey-maxi-dress1.jpg)
![Madewell The Gemma Mule](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/madewell-black-slip-on-1.jpg)
Silver Slingback Pumps
If you’re wearing velvet up top, play into the iridescent quality of the fabric with a pair of silver slingback pumps.
![TopShop Velvet Drape Dress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/topshop-velvet-dress-1.jpeg)
![Sam Edelman Ludlow](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/sam-edelman-ludlow.jpg)
Gold Slip-on Sneakers
Ground a girly polka-dot dress with a pair of metallic sneakers for just the right amount of daytime shimmer.
![Boden Rosa Scattered Spot Jersey Midi Dress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/boden-rosa-jersey-dress.jpeg)
![Vionic Dakota Mule Sneaker](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/vionic-sneaker-mule-final-1.jpg)
Black Ankle Boots
Shorter hemlines help show off a stunning black ankle boot. This matte option is the perfect pick for balancing out a sequin dress.
![1 State Sequin Minidress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/sequin-mini-dress1.jpeg)
![Michael Kors Blaine Ankle Bootie](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/michael-kors-black-bootie.jpg)
White Ankle Boots
For a more unexpected look, try a pair of white ankle boots.
![Rails Jasmine Printed Long-Sleeve Mini Dress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/neiman-marcus-star-drress.jpg)
![Women's Bette Leather Pointed Toe Booties](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/schutz-white-ankle-boot.jpg)
Polka-Dot Slingback Heels
Don’t be afraid to add some pattern to your footwear choice, too. A sleek polka-dot slingback, complete with architectural bow details, is a sweet pick.
![Something Navy Tie Front Dress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/something-navy-tie-front-dress.jpeg)
![Ganni Bow Kitten Heel polka-dot pumps](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/ganni-polka-dot-heels-final.jpg)
Transparent Sandals
Clear details are one of this season’s hottest shoe trends, and a toe sandal in the style can effortlessly be worn with a beachy dress.
![Tibi Gingham Slipdress](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/tibi-dress.jpeg)
![SheIn Clear Strap Flat Sandals](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/shein-clear-sandals-1.jpg)
All products featured have been independently selected and curated by our editorial team. If you buy something through the links included on our site, FN may earn a commission.
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