Getting ready for the day is much easier in summer when your child has a couple of go-to pairs of shoes they love. When it comes to choosing what shoes to wear with a dress, comfort, practicality and style are key. A pair (or two) of reliable summer shoes means less time stressing over outfits and more time enjoying the sunshine.
It’s even better if the shoes your child chooses are easy for them to put on and take off themselves. Hook and loop fastenings, for example, allow little ones to enjoy a bit of independence while still feeling confident in their look. In this style guide, we’ll take a look at the best types of girls’ shoes to wear with summer dresses, perfect for everything from playdates to family picnics.
When the sun’s out, dresses become a staple in many children’s wardrobes. Light, breathable and easy to wear, they’re ideal for warm weather. But pairing them with the right footwear can make all the difference.
So, what shoes go best with a summer dress? The answer depends on the day’s activity, the weather and your little one’s personal style. Let’s take a look at some versatile options that are great for everything from beach holidays to sunny garden parties.
Sandals are the perfect partner for summer dresses, especially on hot days when keeping cool is a priority. Open-toe designs allow air to flow, while lightweight soles make it easy for girls to stay active and comfortable all day long. A key part of many sandals, leather is a breathable material which helps to keep feet cool during the summer months.
Sandals work well for both everyday play and smarter occasions, offering a great balance of fun and playful elegance. Whether it’s a family BBQ or a seaside stroll, sandals add that breezy finishing touch to a summer dress.
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Canvas shoes are brilliant all-rounders when it comes to summer footwear. They offer the relaxed, lightweight feel of a sandal but with more coverage, making them ideal for active play or slightly cooler days. Plus, their soft, breathable fabric helps keep feet fresh even after hours of fun in the sun.
Pair canvas shoes with casual cotton dresses for an easy, playful look that’s perfect for days at the park, picnics or exploring the outdoors.
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You might not think of boots as a summer option, but they are a great transitional option whilst being a practical and stylish choice, especially for cooler or rainy days. Lightweight boots with breathable linings can be worn with dresses to give outfits a trendy twist while keeping feet dry and protected.
Whether your child is heading off on a countryside walk or simply wants a tougher look to balance out a frilly dress, boots are a fantastic choice that offer both durability and flair.
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When it comes to what shoes to wear with dresses in the summer, it’s all about choosing styles that match your child’s lifestyle. Whether it’s the breathability of sandals, the flexibility of canvas shoes or the reliable protection of boots, there’s a perfect pair for every occasion.
At Start-Rite, we combine comfort, support and style in all of our girls' shoes, so your little one can look and feel their best no matter what the summer brings.
Browse our full collection of summer-ready shoes from Girls’ Sandals, Girls’ Canvas, and Girls’ Boots and Wellies.
