Maxi dresses are a warm-weather wardrobe staple — effortlessly elegant, endlessly versatile, and breezy enough to keep you cool while still looking put-together. But here’s the thing: the wrong shoes can completely derail that easygoing glam.
Whether you’re heading to brunch, a garden party, or just strolling through the city, your footwear can make or break the entire look. In this guide, we’re spotlighting 7 shoes that enhance the flow, shape, and mood of a maxi dress — from strappy sandals to minimalist sneakers — and 5 shoe styles that instantly make even the chicest maxi feel dated or frumpy.
If you’re aiming for a modern, flattering look this spring and summer, read on before you step out.
1. Strappy Flat Sandals
Picture yourself strolling along a sunlit boardwalk, the gentle breeze catching your maxi dress just right. Strappy flat sandals, with their delicate, minimalist design, perfectly complement this airy ensemble. Ideal for daytime outings or beachwear, they offer a touch of elegance without overwhelming the dress.
These sandals bring a carefree joy to your step, effortlessly blending comfort with style. As they make a comeback for SS25, their timeless appeal lies in their ability to enhance rather than compete with the dress’s natural flow.
Embrace this breezy look for a sun-drenched adventure.
2. Block Heel Mules
In the heart of the city, where style meets practicality, block heel mules emerge as the perfect companion. Adding a bit of height without sacrificing comfort, these shoes create a structured aesthetic against the soft silhouette of a maxi.
Picture square-toe designs in soft pastels dominating the fashion scene in 2025, as they gracefully bridge the gap between day and night looks. Their subtle elegance ensures they stand out, yet blend seamlessly with the dress.
Step into a world where comfort meets chic sophistication.
3. Woven Espadrille Wedges
Imagine a sun-drenched garden party, where every detail evokes a Mediterranean fantasy. Woven espadrille wedges, with their intricate rope details, are the perfect footwear choice for such an occasion. They bring an earthy charm to the table, perfectly balancing the floaty nature of a maxi dress.
These wedges offer a hint of height, while their natural materials keep the look grounded. Ideal for vacations or outdoor gatherings, they exude a carefree, relaxed elegance.
Let your feet revel in comfort as you enjoy every sunlit moment.
4. Platform Sandals
Fashion-forward and bold, platform sandals with natural materials like raffia or cork are the trendsetters of today. Envision yourself in a bustling city environment, your maxi dress flowing with every step. These sandals add a daring edge to your ensemble, ensuring you stand out in any crowd.
By grounding the dress’s airy nature, they provide a modern flair that is both chic and edgy. Whether you’re exploring new urban landscapes or simply enjoying a day out, their statement style ensures you’re noticed.
Embrace the fashion-forward edge of the season.
5. Sleek Ankle-Strap Heels
In the glow of an evening soirée, sleek ankle-strap heels become the epitome of elegance. These shoes elevate any maxi dress ensemble, adding a touch of sophistication without overshadowing the dress.
Think minimalist designs in shimmering metallics or subtle neutrals, effortlessly enhancing the dress’s elegance. Perfect for evening looks, they bring just the right amount of refinement.
Step into a night of glamour where every detail, from your heels to your dress, speaks of understated luxury.
6. Fashion Sneakers
In an urban landscape, where every step is a part of your personal runway, fashion sneakers play a pivotal role. Slim and low-profile, these sneakers in crisp white or trendy pastels pair effortlessly with casual maxi dresses. They add a youthful, street-chic vibe, perfect for summer adventures.
With each stride, they bring a playful energy that is both trendy and comfortable. Whether you’re exploring the city or meeting friends for brunch, these sneakers keep your style on point.
Discover the youthful charm of fashion-forward sneakers.
7. Gladiator Sandals (Modern Version)
Once a symbol of ancient warriors, gladiator sandals have evolved into a modern fashion statement. Ankle-high with fewer straps, they offer just enough flair to captivate without overwhelming.
Picture yourself in a serene, natural setting, your maxi dress flowing with ease. These sandals complement the dress’s relaxed style, adding interest through their unique design.
Embrace the modern twist on a classic, as you walk through history with a contemporary edge.
8. Bulky Dad Sneakers
Oversized and ultra-chunky, dad sneakers have their place, but not with the elegance of a maxi dress. These sneakers disrupt the dress’s feminine line, creating an awkward, heavy appearance that clashes with SS25’s lighter styles.
Imagine a fashion faux pas where the dress’s elegance is overshadowed by the sheer bulk of the sneakers. The result is a mismatched ensemble that feels out of place.
Avoid this style mismatch and keep your maxi dress’s grace intact.
9. Flip Flops (Basic Rubber Ones)
Basic rubber flip flops might be a beach staple, but they fall short when paired with a maxi dress. These flip flops make the dress appear sloppy, losing the effortless chic vibe it deserves.
Picture a day at the beach where the dress’s elegance is drowned by the casualness of the flip flops. Their unstyled nature detracts from any attempt at creating a polished look.
For a more cohesive ensemble, seek footwear that complements rather than contradicts.
10. Heavy Combat Boots
Once a daring fashion choice, heavy combat boots now feel too harsh against the romantic, breezy styles of spring/summer 2025. Picture a time when these boots were paired with dresses, now their bulky nature feels outdated.
The contrast between the boots and a maxi dress creates an ensemble that lacks harmony, overshadowing the dress’s gentle charm.
For a look that speaks of modern elegance, leave the combat boots behind and embrace lighter footwear options.
11. Round-Toe Ballerina Flats
Traditional round-toe ballerina flats, especially in basic black, can inadvertently flatten the elegance of a maxi dress. Imagine the dress’s vibrant flow being hampered by the flats’ conservative nature.
This pairing can make the dress feel dowdy and uninspired, detracting from its intended charm. For a fresher look, consider alternatives that elevate rather than diminish.
Rediscover the beauty of your maxi dress by choosing footwear that complements its lively spirit.
12. Kitten Heel Slingbacks
Kitten heel slingbacks, while trendy on their own, can clash with the relaxed, bohemian nature of a maxi dress. Picture yourself in a fashion scene where the dress’s carefree charm is at odds with the slingbacks’ conservative style.
This mismatch can create a disjointed look, where the elegance of the maxi is overshadowed by the shoes’ formal appearance.
Seek harmony in your ensemble by opting for footwear that aligns with the dress’s free-spirited essence.