As someone who’s always preferred skirts and dresses, no matter the weather, I’ve become quite the expert on pairing shoes with tights. Growing up, I wore a school uniform with a skirt even in the coldest winters. This habit stuck with me, and now pants just feel a bit off.
Over the years, I’ve curated a shoe collection that pairs perfectly with tights, and I’m confident I’ve mastered the art of shoe-and-tights combinations.
In this article, I’ll share my top 19 go-to shoes to wear with tights. Whether you’re wondering what shoes to wear with black tights or looking for versatile options for different occasions, I’ve got you covered.
From classic choices to statement footwear, I’ll guide you through the best shoes to pair with tights for any style or season.
I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different shoes and tights combinations, and I’m excited to share my findings with you. Trust me, by the end of this post, you’ll have a clear idea of what shoes to wear with tights for any outfit or event.
So, keep reading to discover the perfect shoes to wear with tights that you’ll want to add to your wardrobe right away!
Timeless Choices That Always Work
When unsure what shoes to wear with tights, start with these classic choices. Their simplicity and versatility guarantee they’ll complement your look.
1. Ballerina Flats and Pumps
A wardrobe basic, these shoes feature rounded toes and short heels for day-long comfort. Their minimalist silhouette lets your tights and outfit shine. They work year-round and transition seamlessly from day to night.
For cooler months, try them with cable knit tights and a sweater dress. When temperatures rise, wear them with sheer tights and a breezy skirt. To dress them up, just add sparkly jewelry and a clutch.
I love pairing d’Orsay styles with polka dot or striped tights. The peek of skin breaks up busy patterns in a flattering way.
2. Toe Pumps
A true classic that instantly elevates any outfit. Their sleek pointed toe adds polish while the modest heel offers stability. They’re as appropriate for the office as they are for dressy events.
I like to wear them with control top tights and a wrap dress for an instant slimming effect. For date nights, don them with sheer black tights and a mini skirt. Finish the look with a cropped leather jacket for some edge.
3. Mary Janes
Mary Janes teleport me back to my school uniform days. Their preppy charm, dainty straps, and low block heels effortlessly work with tights. They’re my go-to when channeling retro, ladylike inspiration.
Pair patent leather Mary Janes with cable knit tights, an A-line mini skirt, and oversized sweater for a 1960s mod aesthetic. For a punk rock twist, try chunky socks layered under sheer tights with a plaid skirt and leather moto jacket.
Everyday Comfort Without Sacrificing Style
Who says comfort and fashion don’t mix? These shoes prove you can have both while wearing tights. They effortlessly walk the line between polished and laidback.
4. Chunky Loafers
Chunky loafers are a must-have for good reason. Their thick lug soles provide cushioning for all-day wear. Their menswear-inspired vibe instantly modernizes tights and dresses.
To lean into the ‘90s throwback appeal, don them with ribbed tights, an oversized sweater, and mini backpack. For a more polished take, try cable knit tights with a sweater dress and long coat.
I love how loafers balance out frilly dresses. The contrast between masculine and feminine creates interesting proportions.
5. Chelsea Boots
The elastic ankle panel on Chelsea boots makes them a breeze to slip on and off. Their sleek, streamlined silhouette plays well with tights.
For weekend errands, pair them with classic black tights, a midi skirt, and relaxed sweater. Come Monday morning, swap in opaque tights and a blazer for work-friendly attire.
When temps drop, wear them with fleece-lined tights and a trench coat. Their snug fit keeps out cold gusts of wind. For extra warmth, style them over knit socks.
6. Oxfords & Derby Shoes
These preppy, old-school shoes add polish to casual tights and skirts. Their traditional laces and perforated detailing lend an academic vibe.
Play into their scholarly appeal by wearing them with cable knit tights, an A-line skirt, and collared blouse. For more contrast, pair them with fishnets, a leather mini, and oversized band tee.
I especially like how their lower profile helps balance voluminous midi skirts. Compared to tall boots, they don’t overwhelm the outfit.
Heeled Shoes for Instant Glamour
When you want to elevate your look, skip the flats and opt for these heels instead. They lend height while keeping your feet comfy and stable.
7. Slingback Heels
The open back shape provides flexibility when walking while the ankle strap offers security. It’s the best of both worlds!
As the weather warms up, wear them with sheer tights and floral dresses. When temperatures start to dip again, try them with cable knit tights and mini skirts.
I prefer slingbacks over traditional pumps since they move with my feet better. The adjustable ankle strap prevents slippage which helps on long days.
8. Ankle Boots
Ankle boots effortlessly straddle the line between casual cool and sophisticated. They work for both day and night occasions.
For weekend coffee dates, pair them with opaque tights, an oversized sweater, and mini skirt. Come date night, swap in faux leather leggings, a silky cami, and cropped blazer.
When wearing heavier fabrics like tweed or wool, ankle boots balance out the bulkiness up top. Their tapered silhouette keeps the proportions slim and streamlined.
Cold Weather Choices That Keep You Toasty
Bitterly cold temps used to mean a hiatus from skirts and tights. But with the right footwear, you can stay stylish and warm regardless of the forecast.
9. Knee-High Boots
A cold weather staple, knee-high boots effortlessly pair with tights when temperatures drop. Their tall shaft locks in heat while keeping legs protected.
For maximum coziness, try them with soft opaque tights and knit dresses. The visible band at the knee helps break up solid colors. Or layer fleece-lined tights underneath for extra insulation.
When snow storms hit, swap in lug-sole combat boots. Their chunky tread grips slippery surfaces so you can walk with confidence.
10. Over-the-Knee Boots
Dramatic over-the-knee boots transform any outfit into a showstopper. Their thigh-high silhouette completely reframes your legs and torso.
Pair them with a mini dress or skirt to highlight their sexy appeal. For balance, try a loose-fitting sweater on top. This creates an alluring mix of reveal and conceal.
I also love wearing them with stirrup leggings and an oversized coat. The visible stretch band at the heel adds visual interest to an otherwise ordinary outfit.
11. Snow Boots
Just because there’s two feet of snow doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! Snow boots effortlessly balance fashion and function.
Many modern designs feature slimmer silhouettes with better traction than bulky styles of the past. Brands like Sorel and Hunter offer chic options that still keep your feet dry.
For a polished look, pair them with cable knit tights, an A-line coat, and crossbody bag. Or try shearling-lined boots with fleece-lined tights and a puffer vest. The mix of textures adds cozy dimension.
Statement Footwear for Major Impact
When you want your shoes to do the talking, opt for these bold, eye-catching styles instead. They effortlessly amp up basic tights and skirts with their standout features.
12. Lug Sole Boots
Lug sole boots dominated 2024 runways thanks to their edgy, grungy appeal. Their chunky tread and thick platform soles make legs look crazy long.
Contrast their substantial presence with soft, feminine pieces on top. Try a silky slip dress or cashmere sweater with cable knit tights. This balance of extremes is endlessly interesting to me.
For weekend errands, pair them with bike shorts and an oversized flannel. Come date night, just add a mini skirt and cropped cami. Their versatility makes them a sound investment.
13. Platform Shoes
A little extra height goes a long way in terms of boosting your confidence and overhauling your silhouette. Platform shoes check both boxes effortlessly.
Their exaggerated soles minimize the pitch of the actual heel to keep you stable. But their optical illusion remains in full effect.
When wearing them, keep your outfit fairly simple up top. Let the shoes take center stage against basic tights and dresses. Try them with classic black tights and knit midi dresses for incredible proportions.
14. Combat Boots
Combat boots dominated ‘90s fashion for good reason – their military-inspired vibe effortlessly toughens up any outfit. After years of popularity, they’re back again with a vengeance.
Modern iterations feature slimmer silhouettes while retaining their trademark laces and lug soles. The result is edgy yet still feminine.
For weekend errands, pair them with bike shorts and an oversized flannel. Come date night, just add a mini skirt and cropped cami. Their versatility makes them a sound investment.
I especially like wearing them with band tees and plaid skirts à la Clueless. The contrast between sweet and edgy feels fresh and fun.
Breezy Picks for Warmer Weather
When spring hits, it’s time to shed the heavy-duty boots and break out these breathable styles. They effortlessly transition your winter wardrobe for sunnier days ahead.
15. Mules
Mules check all my warm weather boxes – they’re easy to slip on, provide a relaxed vibe, and keep feet cool with their open backs.
As temps climb, pair them with sheer tights and relaxed midi dresses. For sticky summer days, wear them with bare legs, bike shorts, or trouser socks instead.
I gravitate towards wood-soled styles that evoke a handcrafted, artisanal feel. But sleek metallic and patent leather versions also look chic during transitional weather.
16. Espadrilles
Espadrilles embody easy, casual elegance in a shoe thanks to their braided jute soles and soft canvas uppers. Their natural materials feel breezy against bare skin.
For sightseeing or garden parties, pair them with sheer tights and sundresses. The visible sole adds earthy contrast to feminine florals and ruffles.
Come summer, skip the tights and wear them with everything from denim cutoffs to breezy maxi dresses. Their versatility makes them my vacation MVP every year.
17. Peep Toe Booties
Peep toe booties offer the best of both worlds – coverage in the back, breathability in the front. This makes them ideal for temperamental spring weather.
When a chill lingers in the air, style them with opaque or sheer tights and mini dresses. Should temps spike suddenly, just remove the tights!
I gravitate towards chunky, walkable block heels rather than skinny stilettos. They’re far easier to manage on uneven surfaces like cobblestone streets.
Glam Evening Attire
Date nights and special events call for dialing up the drama. Trade in your daytime footwear for these dazzling after-dark styles. They effortlessly take basic tights from desk to dinner with ease.
18. Open Toe Sandals
While office dress codes may prohibit open toe shoes, nighttime venues welcome them. Break these beauties out once the working day wraps.
Style single-strap sandals with sheer tights and mini dresses for cocktail parties or weddings. Save multi-strap gladiator sandals for hitting the dance floor at clubs.
I love the allure of bare skin next to sheer hosiery. It strikes the perfect balance between sultry and sophisticated.
19. T-Strap Heels
T-strap heels hold a special place in my heart thanks to their glamorous Hollywood pedigree. Their delicate straps and sleek shape elevate any after-five event.
For Old Hollywood inspiration, pair them with seamed stockings, a bias cut gown, and opera gloves. Or modernize the look by wearing them with patterned tights, a mini slip dress, and cropped blazer instead.
I gravitate towards metallics or jewel tones that catch the light beautifully. But soft nudes and blush tones look gorgeous too – the options are truly endless!