A black dress is one of the most versatile pieces in a wardrobe, but choosing the right footwear can completely change the overall appearance of an outfit. The best color shoes to wear with a black dress depend on the occasion, dress style, accessories, season, and the type of look you want to create. Classic choices such as black, nude, and metallic shoes offer timeless combinations, while red, white, silver, gold, and colorful shoes can add contrast and personality.
Whether you are dressing for a wedding, party, date, office event, dinner, or casual outing, the right shoe color can make your black dress look more polished and coordinated. Shoe style matters too. A black dress can be paired with heels for a formal appearance, flats for comfort, boots for a modern outfit, or sandals for warmer weather.
This buying guide explains the best color shoes to wear with a black dress and what to consider before choosing a pair. By understanding color coordination, occasion, comfort, shoe style, and accessories, you can find footwear that complements your black dress without making the outfit feel overly complicated.
Buying Guide: Best Color Shoes to Wear With a Black Dress
1. Black Shoes for a Classic Look
Black shoes are among the easiest choices to wear with a black dress. Matching black footwear creates a streamlined appearance and works particularly well for formal events, professional outfits, dinners, and evening occasions.
Black pumps, sandals, flats, ankle boots, and dress shoes can all work depending on the style of the dress. If you want a simple and sophisticated outfit, black shoes are a reliable choice.
When selecting black shoes, consider adding texture or subtle details if you want to prevent the outfit from looking too uniform. Patent leather, suede, metallic accents, or interesting straps can add visual interest.
2. Nude Shoes for an Elegant and Versatile Outfit
Nude shoes are another excellent option when considering the best color shoes to wear with a black dress. Because they create contrast without competing strongly with the dress, nude footwear can give the outfit a clean and sophisticated appearance.
Nude heels can also work especially well when you want the black dress to remain the main focus. Pumps, sandals, flats, and pointed-toe shoes are all possibilities.
Choose a nude shade that coordinates naturally with your overall outfit. Since nude footwear comes in many shades, there is no single nude color that works for everyone.
3. Red Shoes for a Bold Statement
Red shoes can create a striking contrast against a black dress. This combination is especially useful when you want footwear to become a noticeable part of the outfit.
Red pumps, heels, flats, or sandals can work for parties, dinners, celebrations, and other occasions where a more expressive outfit is appropriate.
Because red shoes already provide a strong accent, you may want to keep other accessories relatively simple. A small red accessory can coordinate the look, but too many competing colors may make the outfit feel busy.
4. Silver Shoes for Evening Events
Silver is one of the best color shoes to wear with a black dress when you want a dressier appearance. Silver footwear can add shine and works particularly well for evening parties, weddings, formal dinners, and celebrations.
Silver heels or sandals can complement jewelry and other metallic accessories. If your black dress has embellishments, sequins, or metallic details, silver shoes can help connect those elements.
For a more subtle appearance, choose shoes with a soft metallic finish rather than highly reflective designs.
5. Gold Shoes for a Warm, Glamorous Look
Gold shoes can give a black dress a warm and elegant appearance. They are particularly suitable for evening occasions and festive events.
Gold heels, sandals, or dressy flats can work beautifully with gold jewelry or other warm-toned accessories. If your dress is simple, gold shoes can also provide an attractive focal point.
When choosing gold footwear, consider the shade. Soft champagne tones tend to look more understated, while brighter gold can create a more dramatic effect.
6. White Shoes for High Contrast
White shoes create a strong contrast with a black dress. This combination can feel modern and eye-catching, particularly for daytime events or contemporary outfits.
White heels, flats, loafers, or sandals can work depending on the style of the dress. White footwear can also coordinate with a white handbag, jacket, or other accessory.
If you are attending a formal event, consider whether the dress code makes white footwear appropriate and whether the shoe style complements the formality of the dress.
7. Metallic Shoes for Extra Versatility
Metallic footwear is another option when choosing the best color shoes to wear with a black dress. Silver, gold, champagne, bronze, and other metallic finishes can instantly make a simple black dress feel more special.
Metallic shoes are especially useful for evening outfits because they reflect light and add dimension. They can also coordinate naturally with metallic jewelry.
If the dress already contains a lot of embellishment, a simpler metallic shoe may create a more balanced outfit.
8. Brown Shoes for a More Relaxed Combination
Brown shoes can work with a black dress when you want a less formal or more earthy appearance. Brown ankle boots, sandals, loafers, or casual flats can be particularly useful for daytime outfits.
Because black and brown create more visual contrast than black-on-black footwear, accessories can help connect the colors. A brown belt or handbag, for example, can make the overall outfit feel more intentional.
The exact shade of brown matters. Tan, cognac, chocolate, and other brown tones can create very different effects.
9. Burgundy Shoes for Sophisticated Contrast
Burgundy or wine-colored shoes offer a more subtle alternative to bright red. They can add color while maintaining a sophisticated appearance.
Burgundy heels, flats, or boots can be appropriate for dinners, parties, fall and winter outfits, and other occasions where you want something more interesting than black footwear.
This color also pairs well with accessories in similar deep tones without requiring an exact color match.
10. Consider the Occasion Before Choosing Shoe Color
The occasion should be one of the first things you consider when selecting the best color shoes to wear with a black dress.
For a formal event, black, nude, silver, gold, or sophisticated metallic footwear can work well. For a party, red, metallic, or colorful shoes may create a more expressive look. For the office, black, nude, brown, or other understated colors may be easier to style professionally.
For casual occasions, sneakers, flats, loafers, boots, or sandals can give a black dress a more relaxed appearance.
11. Match the Shoe Style to the Dress
Color is important, but the shoe’s design should also complement the dress.
A sleek black dress may work well with pointed-toe pumps or minimalist sandals. A casual black dress can pair with sneakers, flats, or ankle boots. A flowing dress may look better with delicate sandals or simple heels.
Avoid focusing only on the shoe color. A beautifully coordinated color combination can still look unbalanced if the shoe style does not suit the dress.
12. Think About the Dress Length
Dress length can influence the type of footwear that works best.
Mini dresses can be paired with flats, sneakers, boots, sandals, or heels depending on the occasion. Midi dresses work well with pumps, sandals, loafers, boots, and many other styles. Long dresses often pair naturally with heels or dressy sandals, although the appropriate choice depends on the outfit.
When considering the best color shoes to wear with a black dress, think about both color and proportion.
13. Coordinate With Your Accessories
Your shoes do not necessarily have to match your handbag exactly. However, creating a visual connection between your footwear and accessories can make an outfit feel more coordinated.
For example, silver shoes can work with silver jewelry, while gold shoes can complement gold accessories. Red shoes can be echoed with a small red accessory.
You can also deliberately choose contrasting accessories. A black dress provides a neutral base, giving you plenty of flexibility.
14. Consider the Season
Season can influence both shoe color and style.
During spring and summer, nude, white, metallic, and lighter-colored shoes can create a fresh appearance. In fall and winter, black, burgundy, brown, and deeper metallic shades can complement seasonal outfits.
The material matters as well. Sandals and lightweight flats may work better in warm weather, while boots and closed-toe shoes can be more practical during cooler months.
15. Choose Comfortable Shoes
Even the best color shoes to wear with a black dress will not be a good choice if they are uncomfortable.
Consider heel height, cushioning, support, toe shape, straps, and overall fit. If you expect to stand or walk for an extended period, prioritize comfort over appearance alone.
For formal events, you can also consider comfortable flats or lower heels if they better suit your needs.
16. Choose the Right Shoe Material
Shoe material can change how the color appears and how formal the footwear looks.
Leather and suede can provide a classic appearance. Patent finishes can look more polished and reflective, while satin or embellished materials can work well for special occasions.
For everyday use, consider materials that are easy to maintain. For special occasions, you may be willing to choose a more delicate finish.
17. Think About Color Intensity
Not every color needs to be bright. A black dress can work with both subtle and vibrant footwear.
If you want a minimalist outfit, choose black, nude, beige, or muted metallic shoes. If you want a statement outfit, consider red, bright metallics, or another bold color.
The amount of contrast you want is an important part of choosing the right shoe.
18. Consider Your Existing Wardrobe
Before buying a new pair of shoes, think about how many outfits you can create with them.
Black and nude shoes tend to be especially versatile. Metallic footwear can work with many evening outfits, while colorful shoes may be more useful when you frequently wear neutral clothing.
A pair that works with your black dress and several other outfits can provide greater wardrobe value than a pair purchased for only one occasion.
19. Check Fit and Sizing
Always check the manufacturer’s size guide when purchasing shoes online. Sizing can differ between brands and styles.
Consider the width as well as the length. A shoe that is technically the correct length may still feel uncomfortable if the width or shape does not suit your feet.
Look for reviews that discuss sizing, comfort, fit, and whether the shoe runs larger or smaller than expected.
20. Choose a Shoe Color Based on Your Desired Look
Ultimately, the best color shoes to wear with a black dress depends on the look you want.
- Black: Classic and streamlined
- Nude: Elegant and understated
- Red: Bold and attention-grabbing
- Silver: Glamorous and modern
- Gold: Warm and luxurious
- White: High-contrast and contemporary
- Brown: Relaxed and earthy
- Burgundy: Sophisticated and seasonal
- Metallic: Festive and eye-catching
I found Amazon/Shopbop shoe listings covering black, red, gold, silver, tan, and other footwear colors.Below are six suitable options for your article, without outbound links.
6 Best Shoes to Wear With a Black Dress
1. Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pumps
The Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pumps are an elegant choice for anyone looking for a polished shoe to pair with a black dress. Their slingback construction gives them a sophisticated appearance while maintaining the classic look of a pump. This type of shoe works particularly well with cocktail dresses, formal outfits, wedding guest looks, and professional dresses.
The pointed silhouette can make the overall outfit appear more refined, while the slingback design adds a modern touch. Because the style is relatively simple, it can complement a black dress without overwhelming it.
Key Features
- Slingback pump design
- Pointed-toe silhouette
- Elegant, polished appearance
- Suitable for formal and semi-formal outfits
- Available in multiple color options
- Versatile styling potential
Pros
- Sophisticated appearance
- Works well with dresses
- Suitable for formal occasions
- Slingback design adds a modern touch
- Easy to coordinate with accessories
Cons
- Pointed toes may not suit everyone
- Slingback styles can require careful sizing
- Heel height may not be ideal for extended walking
Recommendation
Recommended for: Formal events, wedding guest outfits, dinners, and occasions where you want a refined appearance. The Bianka is especially useful when you want a classic pump silhouette with a slightly contemporary design. The model appears among Amazon/Shopbop’s current shoe listings.
2. Tony Bianco Caprice Heels
The Tony Bianco Caprice Heels offer a stylish option for creating a more sophisticated outfit with a black dress. The design is suitable for shoppers who want footwear that looks polished without relying on an overly complicated silhouette.
These heels can be used to add a little extra height and elegance to a simple black dress. Depending on the available color, they can create very different looks. Black can provide a streamlined appearance, while metallic or lighter shades can introduce contrast.
Key Features
- Women’s heeled design
- Fashion-forward silhouette
- Available in multiple colors
- Suitable for dressy outfits
- Designed for versatile styling
- Available through Amazon’s Shopbop marketplace
Pros
- Elegant appearance
- Works well with a black dress
- Multiple color choices provide styling flexibility
- Suitable for parties and evening outfits
- Can create a polished finish
Cons
- Heel height may require an adjustment period
- Less suitable for long periods of walking
- Color availability can vary
Recommendation
Recommended for: Women looking for an elegant heel that can be styled with a black dress for parties, dinners, celebrations, or dressier occasions. Tony Bianco’s current listings include the Caprice Heels in the women’s shoe selection.
3. Schutz Paola Mid Slingback Pumps
The Schutz Paola Mid Slingback Pumps are an excellent choice when you want a more moderate heel rather than an extremely high pump. The mid-height design can provide a dressy appearance while offering a practical alternative to very high heels.
A slingback silhouette works naturally with many black dresses because it looks refined without adding too much visual weight. This makes the style useful for wedding guest outfits, dinner events, work functions, and other occasions.
Key Features
- Mid-height heel
- Slingback construction
- Pump silhouette
- Available in multiple colors
- Suitable for dressy and semi-formal occasions
- Elegant minimalist appearance
Pros
- Moderate heel height
- Sophisticated silhouette
- Easy to style with a black dress
- Suitable for several occasions
- Available in different colors
Cons
- Slingback strap may require proper adjustment
- Not designed as an athletic or walking shoe
- Color selection may change
Recommendation
Recommended for: Anyone who wants an elegant alternative to a very high heel. The Paola Mid Slingback is particularly suitable when you want to combine a polished appearance with a more moderate heel. The current Amazon/Shopbop listings show the style at about a 2–3 inch heel category.
4. Schutz Carolyn Heeled Sandals
The Schutz Carolyn Heeled Sandals are a good option for warm-weather occasions where you want to pair a black dress with an open shoe. Their heeled sandal design can make a simple black dress feel more suitable for parties, dinners, celebrations, and summer events.
The open construction also provides a lighter visual appearance than a closed pump. Choosing a metallic, neutral, or colorful version can create different styling effects while keeping the black dress as the foundation.
Key Features
- Heeled sandal design
- Open construction
- Dressy appearance
- Suitable for warm-weather events
- Multiple color possibilities
- Designed for occasion dressing
Pros
- Elegant and feminine appearance
- Works well with black dresses
- Suitable for parties and evening events
- Open design can feel appropriate for warm weather
- Can add contrast through color
Cons
- Open design is less suitable for cold weather
- High-heel versions may be less comfortable for extended wear
- Straps should be checked for a secure fit
Recommendation
Recommended for: Summer parties, dinners, celebrations, and other dressier warm-weather occasions. The Carolyn Heeled Sandals appear in Amazon/Shopbop’s current women’s black-shoe selection.
5. Madewell Greta Glove Flats
The Madewell Greta Glove Flats are a useful alternative for someone who prefers flats instead of heels. A black dress does not always require high heels, and a simple flat can create a comfortable, understated outfit.
The glove-flat design works especially well for daytime events, casual dinners, work outfits, and occasions where you expect to walk or stand for longer periods. Depending on the color, the shoes can either blend into the outfit or provide a contrasting accent.
Key Features
- Ballet-flat style
- Low-profile design
- Comfortable everyday-oriented silhouette
- Multiple color options
- Suitable for casual and semi-dressy outfits
- Easy to combine with different dress styles
Pros
- No high heel
- Versatile everyday styling
- Easy to pair with a black dress
- Suitable for daytime outfits
- Practical alternative to pumps
Cons
- Less formal than a high heel
- Minimal support compared with some structured footwear
- Very flat shoes may not suit everyone’s preferences
Recommendation
Recommended for: Daytime events, casual black dresses, office outfits, and situations where comfort is more important than extra height. The Greta Glove Flats are currently listed among Amazon/Shopbop’s women’s black shoe options.
6. Reformation Jessie Sandals
The Reformation Jessie Sandals are a stylish choice for creating a lighter, more contemporary look with a black dress. Sandals can be particularly useful during warmer months and can make a formal black dress feel less heavy.
Depending on the available color, the Jessie Sandals can be used to create a subtle neutral combination or a contrasting look. Simple sandals are also useful when you want the dress to remain the primary focus.
Key Features
- Women’s sandal design
- Lightweight visual appearance
- Suitable for warm-weather dressing
- Contemporary styling
- Multiple color options may be available
- Suitable for dresses and other occasion outfits
Pros
- Excellent warm-weather option
- Works with many black dress styles
- Modern appearance
- Easy to dress up or down
- Can create a less formal look
Cons
- Less suitable for cold weather
- Open sandal design may provide less coverage
- Color and size availability can change
Recommendation
Recommended for: Warm-weather parties, dinners, vacations, daytime events, and casual-to-dressy black dress outfits. The Jessie Sandals are included in the current Amazon/Shopbop women’s black-shoe listings.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Shoe Type | Overall Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Edelman Bianka | Formal occasions | Slingback pump | Elegant |
| Tony Bianco Caprice | Parties & dinners | Heels | Sophisticated |
| Schutz Paola Mid | Moderate heel | Slingback pump | Classic |
| Schutz Carolyn | Warm-weather events | Heeled sandal | Dressy |
| Madewell Greta | Comfortable outfits | Flat | Casual |
| Reformation Jessie | Summer styling | Sandal | Modern |
Which Shoes Are Best With a Black Dress?
For a classic look, black or nude pumps are among the easiest choices. For a bold statement, red shoes can create strong contrast. For formal evening outfits, silver and gold footwear can add a more glamorous effect. For comfortable daytime styling, flats or simple sandals are practical alternatives.
The most important factors are the occasion, dress style, comfort, and the overall color balance of your outfit. Since shoe colors and availability can change, check the current product listing and available sizes before purchasing.
Because these shoes can be made from different materials—leather, suede, synthetic materials, satin, or metallic finishes—do not put them in a washing machine unless the manufacturer specifically says they are machine washable. Here is a safe care guide you can use for the shoe styles in the article.
How to Wash and Clean Shoes for a Black Dress
Shoes worn with a black dress should be cleaned carefully to protect their color, shape, finish, and material. Unlike clothing, most dress shoes should not be soaked or washed in a washing machine. Instead, use gentle spot-cleaning methods appropriate for the material.
How to Clean Leather Shoes
- Remove loose dirt with a soft, dry cloth or soft brush.
- Mix a small amount of mild soap with water.
- Dampen a clean cloth rather than soaking it.
- Gently wipe the surface of the shoes.
- Use another slightly damp cloth to remove soap residue.
- Allow the shoes to air-dry naturally at room temperature.
- Once completely dry, apply an appropriate leather conditioner if recommended by the manufacturer.
Avoid soaking leather shoes because excess water can affect the material and shape.
How to Clean Suede Shoes
Suede requires extra care because water can leave marks or change its texture.
- Allow loose dirt to dry completely.
- Gently brush the surface with a suede brush.
- For small marks, use a suede-specific cleaning product according to its instructions.
- Allow the shoes to dry naturally.
- Brush the suede again after drying to restore its texture.
Do not scrub suede aggressively or soak it in water.
How to Clean Metallic or Gold Shoes
Metallic finishes can be delicate, so use minimal moisture.
- Wipe away dust with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
- If necessary, lightly dampen the cloth with water.
- Gently wipe the affected area.
- Immediately dry the surface with another soft cloth.
- Allow the shoes to finish drying naturally.
Avoid abrasive cleaners because they can dull or damage a metallic finish.
How to Clean Fabric or Satin Shoes
For fabric or satin footwear, always check the manufacturer’s care instructions first.
- Remove surface dust with a soft brush.
- Test any cleaning solution on a small hidden area first.
- Use a barely damp cloth to gently dab the stain.
- Avoid rubbing vigorously.
- Let the shoes air-dry away from direct heat.
Satin can mark easily, so aggressive cleaning should be avoided.
How to Clean Shoe Soles
The soles can usually be cleaned separately from the upper portion of the shoe.
Use a slightly damp cloth or soft brush to remove dirt from the sole. Avoid allowing large amounts of water to reach the upper material, especially with leather, suede, satin, or metallic shoes.
Cautions When Cleaning Shoes
1. Do Not Put Dress Shoes in the Washing Machine
Most formal pumps, slingbacks, mules, metallic shoes, and dress sandals are not designed for machine washing. The movement and water can damage the shoe’s structure, finish, adhesive, or decorative details.
2. Do Not Soak the Shoes
Even washable-looking materials can become damaged when completely saturated. Use a damp cloth for spot cleaning instead.
3. Avoid Bleach
Bleach and other strong household cleaners can discolor shoes and damage delicate materials.
4. Do Not Use Excessive Heat
Do not place dress shoes directly next to a heater, radiator, or other strong heat source. High heat can affect certain materials, adhesives, and the shape of the shoe.
5. Test Cleaning Products First
Before applying a cleaner to a visible area, test it on a small, inconspicuous section. This is especially important for colored, metallic, suede, and delicate shoes.
6. Be Careful With Metallic Finishes
Gold and silver shoes may have surface coatings that can become dull or damaged by abrasive products. Use gentle cleaning methods and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
7. Never Scrub Aggressively
Hard scrubbing can remove finishes, roughen materials, or create visible marks. Gentle dabbing and wiping are generally safer.
8. Remove Stains Quickly
Fresh marks are usually easier to address than old, set-in stains. Clean them gently as soon as practical rather than allowing them to remain on the shoe.
9. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
The care label or manufacturer’s instructions should always take priority because different versions of the same shoe can use different materials.
10. Store Shoes Properly
After cleaning, make sure the shoes are completely dry before storing them. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture. Use the original box or a breathable shoe bag when appropriate.
Final Cleaning Tip
The safest approach is gentle spot cleaning rather than traditional washing. For leather, use a suitable leather cleaner; for suede, use suede-specific care products; and for metallic or delicate finishes, use as little moisture as possible. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before cleaning expensive or delicate shoes.
Here are the FAQ and conclusion sections to complete your article on the best color shoes to wear with a black dress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best color shoes to wear with a black dress?
Black, nude, red, silver, and gold are among the most versatile choices. Nude shoes create an elegant and subtle appearance, while metallic shoes add glamour. Red shoes provide a bold contrast, and black shoes create a classic monochromatic look.
Can I wear black shoes with a black dress?
Yes. Black shoes with a black dress create a sophisticated, streamlined appearance. This combination works particularly well for formal occasions, professional outfits, dinners, and evening events.
Are nude shoes good with a black dress?
Yes. Nude shoes are one of the easiest choices because they provide a subtle contrast without competing with the dress. They work especially well for formal events, weddings, office outfits, and daytime occasions.
Do red shoes go with a black dress?
Absolutely. Red shoes create a strong and stylish contrast against black. They are a good choice when you want your footwear to become a statement part of the outfit. Keeping your other accessories relatively simple can help maintain balance.
Do gold shoes look good with a black dress?
Yes. Gold and black create a glamorous combination that is especially suitable for parties, weddings, dinners, and evening events. Gold shoes can look even more coordinated when paired with simple gold-toned jewelry.
Are silver shoes suitable for a black dress?
Silver shoes pair beautifully with black dresses. The cool metallic color adds brightness and sophistication without being as bold as some bright colors. Silver is particularly suitable for evening parties and formal occasions.
Can I wear white shoes with a black dress?
Yes. White shoes create a noticeable high-contrast look with black. They can work especially well for daytime, spring, summer, and casual outfits. The style of the dress and the rest of the accessories should determine whether the overall look feels appropriate.
What color shoes should I wear with a black dress to a wedding?
Nude, metallic gold, silver, and elegant black shoes are all good options. The best choice depends on the dress style and formality of the wedding. Comfortable footwear is also important if you expect to stand or walk for several hours.
What color shoes are best for a black dress at a formal event?
Black, nude, silver, and gold are dependable formal choices. Black provides a classic appearance, nude creates a refined look, and metallic shades can add a more glamorous finish.
What shoes should I wear with a casual black dress?
For a casual black dress, consider white sneakers, neutral flats, sandals, loafers, or casual boots. The best option depends on the season and the style of the dress.
What color shoes make a black dress stand out?
Bright colors such as red can make a black dress stand out immediately. Metallic gold and silver can also attract attention while maintaining a sophisticated appearance.
Should my shoes match my handbag when wearing a black dress?
They do not have to match exactly. Coordinating the general color family can make the outfit look cohesive, but contrast can also be stylish. For example, metallic shoes can work with a neutral handbag and understated jewelry.
Are heels necessary with a black dress?
No. A black dress can look stylish with flats, sandals, loafers, boots, or sneakers depending on the occasion. Choose heels when you want a dressier appearance, but prioritize comfort when you will be walking or standing for long periods.
What shoe color is the most versatile with a black dress?
Black and nude are among the most versatile options. Metallic silver and gold can also work with many formal outfits. If you want one pair that can be worn with numerous outfits, consider the occasions you attend most frequently before choosing a color.
Conclusion
Choosing the best color shoes to wear with a black dress does not have to be complicated. Black shoes offer a timeless monochromatic appearance, nude shoes provide understated elegance, while red shoes create a bold statement. Silver and gold footwear can add a glamorous touch, and white or other neutral shades can give a black dress a fresh, contemporary appearance.
The right choice ultimately depends on the occasion, dress style, season, accessories, comfort, and your personal preference. Before buying, consider how frequently you will wear the shoes and whether they can work with other outfits in your wardrobe.
Whether you prefer classic black pumps, elegant nude heels, sparkling metallic sandals, or colorful statement shoes, a black dress gives you plenty of opportunities to experiment. By choosing footwear that balances style and comfort, you can create a polished outfit for everything from everyday occasions to formal events.