How to Wear Wedges

Co-authored by Alison Deyette

Last Updated: April 27, 2021 References

Wedges are versatile shoes that can add a bit of chic to any outfit. While they don't tend to be quite as elegant as stilettos, you can still wear them with sophisticated dresses, as long as you pick the right pair. On other occasions, they can just be fun to wear, making a playful or casual statement! Figure out the best height for the occasion and work on pairing the best shoe with your outfit.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Deciding on the Right Height

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Pick a low-heeled version for casual outfits. Too much height can be a little overwhelming if you're in jeans and t-shirt. Opt for 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) in most cases, which adds a little height but nothing too dramatic.
- If you want a bit more flair, try a 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) heel. They can make a statement without getting too uncomfortable.
2
Aim for 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) when you want to look chic. This height isn't as comfortable as the shorter heels, so only choose these when you aren't going to be walking too much. They're great for a date night, for instance, or for a fun lunch with your friends.
- If you don't feel comfortable at this height, opt for a slightly shorter version.
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3
Go for height on special occasions. A high heel looks dramatic and makes you feel extra special. Try a 4 inches (10 cm) heel or higher when you're going out to a formal event.
- Of course, if you can't walk in a heel that high, it's better to pick a lower heel than to risk tripping on a special night.
4
Choose the same height you'd normally wear in stilettos or other heels. One simple way to decide what height to wear is to match them with another type of heel you'd wear. So, for instance, if you'd normally wear 4 in (10 cm) stilettos, opt for the same height in wedges.^{[1]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Styling Wedges

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Pick fairly tame wedges for everyday wear. Try a neutral color, like nude, tan, brown, or black. Aim for a classic style, such as peep toe, closed pump, booties, and espadrilles. Leather and canvas are good choices for materials.
- This style will go with many outfits, from business to casual.
2
Pair sandal wedges with a flowing, knee-length summer dress. A pair of strappy wedges can perfectly complement a summery dress. They can look light and airy, just like your outfit.^{[2]
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- For instance, try a pair that just as a small strap over the toes and at the ankles for summer looks.
3
Try a pair of sandal wedges with skin-tight, ankle-length pants. Because wedges can look a little bulky, wearing this type of slimming pants can help take away some of the visual heaviness.^{[3]
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- For example, wear a pair of tight-fitting jeans with some black wedge sandals in a mid-range heel.
4
Choose pump wedges for office attire. If your office requires business wear, you can still wear wedges. Just opt for closed-toed pump wedges, rather than sandals or boots, as they will look more professional.
- Stick to neutral colors, like brown, gray, black, or nude.
5
Mix and match styles for a bit of fun. Pick a more sophisticated shoe with a pair of ripped jeans, or try a canvas pair with an elegant maxi skirt. Be playful, trying on different combinations until you find something you love.
- Wedges work with most lengths and styles of clothing, but try out different pairs to see what looks best with your outfits.^{[4]
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- Fashion often comes from a surprising combination that works!
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Go with a very elegant pair for a night out on the town. Wedges tend to look more casual in general than stilettos, even when they are similar styles. Therefore, go a bit overboard when picking out a pair for a fancy occasion. The more elegant, the better.^{[5]
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- Typically, styles with daintier silhouettes tend to look more elegant. Also, consider material. Exposed corks on a shoe doesn't necessarily scream elegance.
- It's probably best to skip them altogether if the occasion or venue requires formal wear.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using Wedges to Your Advantage

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Wear chunky wedges with capris or skirts to make your ankles look skinnier. Wedges have a large presence, and they naturally make your ankles look smaller by comparison. If that's one of your goals, pair them with something that shows off your ankles.^{[6]
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- This trick also works to visually slim your calves.
- Pair chunky wedges with maxis or pants if you don't want to amplify skinny legs.
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Opt for skinnier wedges if you have skinnier legs. Slimmer wedges naturally pair well with slimmer legs because they scale together. If you don't want to emphasize that you have skinny legs, then this is another good option.
3
Choose wedges for outdoor events. Stilettos tend to sink into the ground, especially after a rain. Plus, they aren't very good for uneven terrain, such as gravel. If you're going to an outdoor event, but still want some sophistication, opt for the stability of a wedge.
- Pick a wedge with a wider base if possible.
EXPERT TIP

"Wedges are perfect when you want height without having to worry about scuffing or ruining heels. Plus, you won't sink into soft ground."

Alison Deyette
Professional Stylist
Alison Deyette is a Style Expert and TV Host with over 20 years of experience in fashion, style, and television. She has styled and directed photoshoots around the world for a variety of magazines, including Good Housekeeping, People StyleWatch, and Mode. Alison was also named one of the top stylists in Los Angeles by Variety magazine.

Alison Deyette
Professional Stylist
4
Put on wedges when you need to make a statement and be comfortable. Wedges tend to be more stable than stilettos, and they're often more comfortable, too. If you're going to an event requiring you to dress up a bit but that's going to run all day, wedges are a good option.^{[7]
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- Since wedges look good with almost any style and length of clothes, you should be able to find a pair that works!

Expert Q&A

Question

What looks good with wedges?

Candace Hanna
Professional Stylist
Candace Hanna is a stylist and style expert based in Southern California. With 16 years of experience in the corporate fashion and personal styling realms, she runs Style by Candace, a personal styling agency that focuses on helping individuals find their personal expression through clothing. Her work has been featured in magazines such as Shoutout LA and VoyageLA.

Candace Hanna

Professional Stylist

Expert Answer

Wedges look great with a pretty sundress. You can also wear them with mom jeans or bootcut jeans to make your legs look really long.