What Shoes to Wear With Royal Blue: Complete Outfit Ideas

What shoes should you wear with royal blue? The best shoe colors for royal blue outfits often depend on the overall look you’re aiming for. Classic neutrals like nude, black, and white are always safe bets, but don’t shy away from bolder choices like metallics or even color pops like yellow or red for a more daring statement. This guide will explore numerous footwear options to perfectly complement your royal blue attire, offering inspiration for any occasion.

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Decoding Royal Blue: A Versatile Hue

Royal blue is a bold, rich color that can instantly elevate any outfit. Its versatility makes it a favorite for everything from casual dresses to formal gowns, and from office-appropriate separates to weekend wear. But knowing what shoes to wear with royal blue can be tricky. The key is to consider the occasion, the style of the garment, and the overall impression you want to create.

The Color Wheel & Royal Blue

Before diving into specific shoe colors, let’s quickly touch on color theory. Royal blue is a cool color, sitting firmly in the blue family. This means it pairs well with other cool tones, but it can also create stunning contrast with warmer hues.

• Complementary Colors: Orange is the direct complement to blue on the color wheel. While a fully orange shoe might be too much for some, shades of tan, rust, or even a burnt orange can create a visually striking contrast.
• Analogous Colors: Colors next to blue on the color wheel – think shades of green and purple – can create a harmonious and sophisticated look.
• Neutral Colors: Neutrals like black, white, beige, and grey provide a balanced backdrop, allowing the royal blue to truly shine.

Classic Choices: Neutral Shoes That Complement Royal Blue

When in doubt, neutrals are your best friends. They offer a sophisticated and understated elegance that works for almost any occasion.

Nude Shoes: The Leg-Lengthening Secret

Nude shoes are a universally flattering choice that can make your legs appear longer and leaner. Choose a shade that closely matches your skin tone for the most seamless effect.

• Occasions: Nude heels are perfect for pairing with a royal blue dress for weddings, cocktail parties, or even a night out. Nude flats or sandals can dress down a royal blue skirt or pants for daytime wear.
• Styles: Nude pumps, strappy heels, ankle-strap sandals, or ballet flats all work beautifully with royal blue.
• Fabric: Leather, suede, or even patent leather nude shoes can all be stylish options.

Black Shoes: Timeless Sophistication

Black shoes are a classic choice that never goes out of style. They add a touch of sophistication and can easily transition from day to night.

• Occasions: Black heels are suitable for work events, formal dinners, or any occasion where you want to project an air of polished confidence. Black flats or loafers are perfect for casual outings or running errands.
• Styles: Black pumps, ankle boots, heeled sandals, or even sneakers can be paired with royal blue.
• Fabric: Leather, suede, or patent leather are all popular choices for black shoes.

White Shoes: Fresh & Modern

White shoes offer a fresh and modern take on classic neutrals. They’re perfect for adding a pop of brightness to your outfit.

• Occasions: White sneakers can be paired with a royal blue dress for a casual, street-style look. White sandals are ideal for summer events or vacations. White heels can make a statement at a party.
• Styles: White sneakers, sandals, ankle boots, or even pumps can complement royal blue.
• Fabric: Leather, canvas, or even mesh can all work well for white shoes.

Beige & Grey Shoes: Understated Elegance

Beige and grey shoes offer a softer alternative to black and white. They create a subtle and sophisticated look that’s perfect for those who prefer a more understated style.

• Occasions: Beige or grey flats are great for everyday wear. Beige or grey heels can be dressed up or down, making them a versatile choice for work or social events.
• Styles: Beige pumps, ankle boots, sandals, or flats can all be paired with royal blue. Similarly, grey sneakers, loafers, or heels can also work well.
• Fabric: Suede, leather, or even a textured fabric can add visual interest to beige or grey shoes.

Making a Statement: Bold & Metallic Shoe Color Combinations with Royal Blue

For those who want to turn heads, bold and metallic shoes offer a chance to express your personality and create a truly unique look.

Metallic Shoes: Glamour & Sparkle

Metallic shoes – gold, silver, bronze, or rose gold – add a touch of glamour and sparkle to any outfit. They’re perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to feel a little more festive.

• Gold Shoes: Gold shoes add warmth and richness to royal blue. They’re ideal for evening events or parties.
• Silver Shoes: Silver shoes offer a cool and modern contrast to royal blue. They’re perfect for adding a touch of edge to your look.
• Bronze & Rose Gold: These softer metallic shades offer a more subtle sparkle and can be particularly flattering on warmer skin tones.
• Occasions: Metallic heels are perfect for weddings, galas, or cocktail parties. Metallic flats can dress up a casual outfit for a night out.
• Styles: Metallic pumps, strappy heels, sandals, or even sneakers can all work well.

Red Shoes: A Fiery Contrast

Red shoes create a bold and eye-catching contrast with royal blue. They’re a great choice for those who want to make a statement and show off their confidence.

• Occasions: Red heels are perfect for a night out, a date, or any occasion where you want to feel powerful and glamorous. Red flats can add a pop of color to a casual outfit.
• Styles: Red pumps, strappy heels, ankle boots, or even sneakers can be paired with royal blue.
• Shades: Consider the shade of red. A classic red works well, but deeper shades like burgundy or oxblood can offer a more sophisticated and subtle contrast.

Yellow Shoes: A Sunny Surprise

Yellow shoes add a pop of sunshine to royal blue. They’re a fun and unexpected choice that’s perfect for summer events or when you want to inject some personality into your outfit.

• Occasions: Yellow sandals are ideal for summer vacations or casual outings. Yellow heels can make a statement at a party.
• Styles: Yellow sandals, pumps, flats, or even sneakers can be paired with royal blue.
• Shades: Lighter yellows, like pastel yellow or mustard yellow, can be easier to wear than bright, neon yellows.

Emerald Green Shoes: A Sophisticated Pairing

Emerald green shoes can create a surprisingly elegant and sophisticated pairing with royal blue. Because both colors are cool tones, they create a harmonious and visually appealing aesthetic.

• Occasions: Emerald green heels are perfect for formal events or evenings out. Emerald green flats can add a touch of luxury to everyday outfits.
• Styles: Emerald green pumps, sandals, loafers, or ankle boots can complement royal blue nicely.
• Fabric: Velvet or satin can enhance the richness of emerald green, while leather or suede provides a more classic look.

Finding the Right Style: Shoe Styles for Royal Blue Outfits

The style of shoe you choose is just as important as the color. Consider the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve and choose shoes that complement the style of your royal blue garment.

Heels: Elevating the Look

Heels are a great way to dress up a royal blue outfit and add a touch of elegance.

• Pumps: Classic and versatile, pumps can be paired with dresses, skirts, or pants.
• Strappy Heels: Perfect for evening events or parties, strappy heels add a touch of glamour.
• Ankle Boots: Ankle boots can be dressed up or down, making them a versatile choice for both day and night.
• Heeled Sandals: Ideal for summer events or vacations, heeled sandals offer a stylish and comfortable option.

Flats: Comfort & Style

Flats offer a comfortable and stylish alternative to heels.

• Ballet Flats: Classic and chic, ballet flats are perfect for everyday wear.
• Loafers: Loafers add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
• Sandals: Sandals are ideal for summer events or vacations.
• Sneakers: Sneakers can be dressed up or down, making them a versatile choice for casual outings.

Boots: Edgy & Chic

Boots add a touch of edge to any outfit.

• Ankle Boots: Versatile and stylish, ankle boots can be paired with dresses, skirts, or pants.
• Knee-High Boots: Knee-high boots add a touch of drama to any outfit.
• Over-the-Knee Boots: Over-the-knee boots are a bold and fashionable choice.

Accessorizing Royal Blue with Shoes: Finishing Touches

Beyond the color and style of your shoes, consider the other accessories you’re wearing. Coordinating your shoes with your handbag, jewelry, and belt can create a polished and cohesive look.

• Handbag: Choose a handbag that complements your shoes in color and style.
• Jewelry: Gold or silver jewelry can be paired with royal blue, depending on the overall look you’re trying to achieve.
• Belt: A belt can help to define your waist and add a finishing touch to your outfit. Consider a metallic belt to match metallic shoes, or a neutral belt to keep the focus on your royal blue garment.

Fashion Tips for Royal Blue Shoe Coordination

Here are some extra fashion tips for coordinating your shoes with royal blue:

• Consider the occasion: Choose shoes that are appropriate for the event you’re attending.
• Think about the style of your garment: Choose shoes that complement the style of your royal blue garment.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try different shoe colors and styles to find what works best for you.
• Confidence is key: No matter what shoes you choose, wear them with confidence!

Deciding the Best Shoe Colors for Royal Blue Outfits: Quick Guide

Here’s a table summarizing some of the best shoe colors for royal blue outfits, along with ideal occasions:

Shoe Color	Occasion	Style Suggestions
Nude	Weddings, cocktail parties, daytime events	Pumps, strappy heels, ballet flats, sandals
Black	Work events, formal dinners, casual outings	Pumps, ankle boots, heeled sandals, sneakers
White	Casual street style, summer events, parties	Sneakers, sandals, ankle boots, pumps
Beige/Grey	Everyday wear, work events, social occasions	Pumps, ankle boots, sandals, flats, sneakers, loafers, heels
Gold	Evening events, parties	Pumps, strappy heels, sandals, sneakers
Silver	Evening events, parties	Pumps, strappy heels, sandals, sneakers
Red	Nights out, dates, powerful events	Pumps, strappy heels, ankle boots, sneakers
Yellow	Summer events, casual outings	Sandals, pumps, flats, sneakers
Emerald Green	Formal events, evenings out, luxury occasions	Pumps, sandals, loafers, ankle boots

FAQ: Shoes That Complement Royal Blue

What color shoes match royal blue clothing for a formal event?

For a formal event, nude, black, silver, or gold heels are excellent choices. Nude elongates the legs and offers a subtle elegance, while black provides timeless sophistication. Metallics add a touch of glamour.

Can I wear brown shoes with royal blue?

Yes, you can wear brown shoes with royal blue, especially tan or lighter shades of brown. These earthy tones can create a warm and inviting contrast. Avoid very dark browns, which might clash with the vibrancy of royal blue.

What are some good footwear options for royal blue attire during the day?

During the day, consider white sneakers for a casual, sporty look, nude ballet flats for a classic and comfortable option, or tan sandals for a relaxed vibe.

What type of shoes should I avoid wearing with royal blue?

Generally, avoid shoes in colors that clash directly with blue, such as neon green or very bright orange, unless you’re intentionally creating a bold, avant-garde look. Also, be cautious with matching the blue shade exactly, as it can sometimes look too uniform.

What’s the best way to accessorize royal blue with shoes?

Coordinate your shoes with your handbag and jewelry. Metallic shoes pair well with metallic jewelry, while neutral shoes allow you to experiment with bolder accessories. A belt that complements your shoes can also tie the entire look together.