How to Pick the Perfect Prom Shoes
November 11, 2024
Prom season is a time for celebration. Possibly one of the most exciting and memorable moments in a teenager's life, you finally get to let your hair down and commemorate all your hard work - and of course, you want to do so in style.
Finding the perfect prom shoes is just as important as finding the right dress or suit. With a variety of options out there, you're simply spoilt for choice. This means it can be difficult to figure out what shoes to wear to prom.
But not to worry, we're here to help you pick the best prom shoes to match your outfit and make sure you have a night - and look - to remember.
Read on to discover our top tips for finding shoes for a prom.
What's on this page?
What kind of shoes are best for prom?
When choosing shoes for a prom, your best bet is to select a pair that's both fashionable and comfortable. Of course, you want to look your best for this special occasion, but you also want to be comfortable enough to dance the night away!
Luckily, there's plenty of trendy prom shoes available that combine both style and comfort. Examples include:
- Strappy heels and sandals - Classy and chic, a comfortable pair of strappy heels or sandals are a great choice for prom.
- Block heels - Block heels have broad bases to offer more support and stability - a great option if you plan on being on your feet all night.
- Diamante heels - The perfect occasion shoe, these come in a range of different styles to suit every look.
- Loafers - A sophisticated and comfortable option, loafers are great for nights spent on the dancefloor.
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Oxford shoes - Effortlessly stylish and available in a variety of different colours. Oxford shoes are an excellent choice of shoe for prom.
- Brogues - Last but certainly not least, brogues are a classic shoe suitable for most formal occasions.
What shoes do you wear with a prom dress?
So, you've found the prom dress of your dreams - now all that's left is the shoes. You'll want to select footwear that complements your gown. For example, if your dress is simplistic and elegant, you could choose a bold pair of party shoes to step up your look. Or, for more glitz and glam statement frocks, a classy pair of traditional heels should do the trick.
Here's an idea of the type of shoes to wear with a prom dress:
Court shoes
Heeled court shoes are an excellent choice for prom-goers who aren't regular heel wearers. Opt for a lower style and you'll still get the added height of prom heels, without compromising on comfort.
Worried about your shoes slipping off? Don't fret, just choose a pair of courts with a strap or buckle. This can make walking and dancing much easier, as you'll feel more sturdy and secure.
Neutral colours like black, nude, white or silver are typically the best colours to go for, as they'll match any outfit. Alternatively, choose a contrasting colour to your dress and really make your prom outfit pop - a great idea if you're wondering what colour shoes to wear with a black prom dress.
Our top pick!
Lilley Vivien Women's Black T-Bar Court Shoe
Add a touch of edgy sparkle to a more muted prom fit with these black diamante heels. They come with a comfortable strap and buckle to help you feel secure whilst you dance the night away.
Ballerina flats
When it comes to prom shoes, high heels aren't for everyone. They may well be one of the seven must-have shoes, but some people just don't find them comfortable. If, like many, you're not used to a higher heel, a striking pair of ballerina flats could be a more ideal option.
Ballerina flats are perfect for occasions where you're likely to be on your feet, as they're snug and easy to wear. They can complement any prom dress and still give you that dressed-up feeling you're after, without the difficulty of heels.
Fancy getting the best of both worlds on your special night? You could pick out a pair of gorgeous heels as your main prom shoes, and pack some ballerina flats to change into later on to give your feet a rest. Who said you have to choose just one?
Our top pick!
Lilley Gwen Women's Navy Lace Slip On Ballerina
Feel super special with these elegant navy lace ballerina shoes. The perfect prom shoe for those looking for both style and comfort.
Strappy Sandals
Strappy sandals come in a range of styles, which makes them versatile shoes for prom. While many stylish flat shoes are available, you can also find strappy sandals with a higher heel - giving you an elevated (pun intended) and delicate feel to your look.
Strappy sandals are a great starting point if you're not used to high heels, as the straps will help keep your shoes in place and prevent your feet from slipping.
Look for a pair that complements the colour of your prom outfit. Sparkly silver or gold sandals will usually go with most dresses to help create a glamorous look. Of course, sparkly shoes are always a firm favourite for proms and other special events, follow our advice to find out how best to style them.
Our top pick!
Truffle Halla1 Women's White Heeled Sandal
A fantastic pair of strappy heels that will go with just about any outfit, these bright white Truffle heels could take your prom look to the next level.
Block heels
Block heels bring all the glamour and added height of a stiletto heel without the difficulty walking. An ideal shoe for prom, these chunky heels provide better balance and stability, giving you an extra boost of confidence while you strut your stuff.
Choose a nude or black pair if you want your dress to do all the talking, or a bold, patterned pair if you've opted for a more understated dress. Just make sure your other accessories match your shoes and bring the whole look together!
Our top pick !
Truffle Halla Women's Champagne Shimmer Heel
These shimmering champagne heels
are sure to turn heads. With a block heel for comfort and a popping colour for style, these shoes will make your outfit one to remember.
What shoes can I wear with a suit to prom?
Finding the perfect pair of prom shoes to wear with a suit can be just as much of a task as it is with a dress. You'll want to pick a pair that's sophisticated and practical, while also stylish and comfortable. It's also important that your shoes match your suit in terms of colour and material.
Here's a list of what shoes to wear to prom for anyone who chooses to wear a suit.
Brogues
A staple piece of footwear, brogues are excellent shoes for prom. They're fashionable, versatile and durable - a good pair of brogues will last you a long time and go with a range of different outfits.
Brogues typically come in darker colours like brown or black, which makes them the perfect all-rounder. You may find snazzy variations in brogue heels, such as colour contrasts and different stitching patterns.
Match these with a sophisticated suit to create an effortlessly stylish outfit.
Our top pick!
Beckett Billy Men's Lace Up Tan Brogue Shoes
A pair of is a must have in the closet of every brogue lover. These Becketts tan brogues could be just what you need to complete your prom look.
Chelsea boots
The perfect companion to a slim fit suit, Chelsea boots are both practical and stylish. Made to keep your feet snug, these shoes are ideal for all kinds of occasions, including prom.
Choose these boots to create a modern, elegant look that's sure to impress your date and your fellow prom-goers. They're available in a host of different colours, styles and materials, including classic leather and trendy suede. Like brogues, Chelsea boots are commonly found in darker colours like brown and black to suit a variety of outfits.
These shoes are known for their versatility, so you can purchase them for your prom and know that you'll get great wear out of them in the future.
Our top pick!
Beckett Briggs Men's Black Smart Chelsea Boot
A sturdy boot with an edge thanks to its thick sole, these stylish black boots could be the perfect match for your prom suit.
Leather shoes
What's more reliable than a pair of leather shoes? Jig your way to the dancefloor with confidence knowing that you've selected a classic pair of shoes for prom.
You won't be short on choice when it comes to leather shoes, as they come in a range of different styles such as lace-ups, slip-ons, loafers and brogues. There's also a selection of colours available, from black and brown to red and tan.
Leather shoes are comfortable, breathable and designed to mould to the shape of your foot - great for events like prom where you're bound to spend hours on your feet.
Our top pick!
Stone Creek Arundel Men's Black Leather Shoe
Slip your feet into these comfortable leather lace-ups and spend the evening feeling like you're dancing on clouds.
Lace up boots
Enter your prom looking sharp as ever with a pair of smart lace up boots. These might not be the first option that come to mind when thinking about prom shoes, but we're not talking about bulky walking boots or utility boots.
You can even find lace-up boots in materials like suede if you're looking for something different. These shoes are available in a range of different hues and styles, so you're sure to find the best prom shoes to complement your suit with ease.
Our top pick!
Urban Territory Errol Men's Black Lace Up Boot
With a smooth upper design and stitch detailing, these stylish black lace up ankle boots are a fantastic investment that will serve you well on your prom night and thereafter.
Picking prom shoes: Tips and tricks
Here's a few tips and tricks to help you choose the best prom shoes for your special occasion:
Choosing the right style and fit
Several factors can influence the style of prom shoes that you choose. You'll want them to match your outfit, as well as make a style statement all on their own. You should also ensure that you pick shoes that fit comfortably - the last thing you want is for your shoes to slip off on the dancefloor, or to be rendered to the seating section because your footwear is too tight and painful.
Before you buy shoes for prom, make sure you consider:
Shoe size. If you have smaller feet, you may be better suited to a chunkier shoe that increases your height if that's the look you're going for. If you have a taller frame, you don't have to rule out prom heels. Choose what works for you, whether it be kitten heels or the highest of high heels!
Foot width. If your feet are narrow, you may find that round or almond-toe prom shoes are a better fit. Wider feet will usually be more comfortable in an open or pointed toe. The popular strappy sandal will also work for any foot width and help create a classy and refined look.
Decide whether you want your dress to get all the attention or spruce up your outfit with a little embellishment, sparkle or pop of colour.
Working to your budget
The cost of prom shoes can vary. It all comes down to how much you're willing to pay for the right pair of shoes.
Consider these questions:
- How much can you afford to spend? - Always have a budget in mind.
- How often are you going to wear the shoes you buy? - It's always a good idea to buy shoes that you'll be able to wear again.
- Are your feet likely to grow any bigger? - Keep this in mind when selecting your shoe size. Sizing up can make the shoes last longer and turn them into more of an investment.
Finding the heel height that works for you
When it comes to heel height, we all have our limits. Some people can just naturally walk in heels better than others - there's no shame in it! However, if you do want to wear high heels for prom, the best way to work out the most suitable heel height is to sit down then raise your leg, allowing your foot to relax. In this position, your foot should naturally go to a point. At this stage, the distance between your heel and toes measured at a right angle will give you the best heel height for the most comfort.
When choosing a heel height for your prom shoes, remember, comfortability and safety is key! No one wants to take a tumble on their special night, so make sure you can walk in the heels you choose. Check out our Top Tips for Walking in Heels for some great advice on how you can strut your stuff confidently on prom night.
Prom shoes: FAQs
Can you wear trainers to prom?
A pair of smart trainers can be an excellent choice of shoes for prom. You could choose a fun pair like the Lunar Charm Women's Leopard Print Casual Trainer to add an extra bit of razzle-dazzle to your outfit. Or, if you're looking for comfort, Skechers Slip Ins Men's BlackTrainers could be a suitable option.
Is it ok to wear flats to prom?
Wearing flats to prom is a great option for those who aren't a fan of heels. There's plenty of fashionable flats out there that can complement whichever outfit you choose. Don't think you have to tone it down just because you're not wearing heels! Our flat shoes can add a splash of elegance to your outfit.
So, there you have it - everything you need to know to find the best prom shoes for your special day. Whatever type of shoe you pick, be sure to enjoy the celebration and make it a night to remember.
Note, no outfit is complete without the perfect accessories, check out our range of handbags to finish off your look.
Check out the shoezone blog for more style tips and footwear suggestions for every occasion.