How to Style and Choose Statement Shoes for Graduation
Graduation is around the corner, and while we all make a huge fuss about what to wear to an event like this, I’m going to be real with you for a second. When walking across the stage, nobody is going to even see what you are wearing. What will people see? A smile on your face and… of course, your shoes. In today’s article, I’m going to be talking about how to style statement shoes for graduation.
This will include:
- Tips and tricks to picking the right pair
- My roundup of graduation statement shoe favorites
Tips and Tricks to Picking the Right Pair of Graduation Shoes
I still own the shoes I wore on my graduation day. On occasion, I’ll even wear them. That said, I wish I had spent a little bit more money and bought a pair that I would wear forever, rather than spending *slightly* more than I typically do on a pair of wedges for something obscure. Because of this, here is the advice I would give to anyone currently shopping for graduation shoes.
Make them Cute, but also Functional
A cute shoe becomes a pair collecting dust in the back of your closet quickly if you don’t ask yourself these two questions ahead of time.
- 1. Can you walk in them? The last thing you want is to trip on stage in front of everybody. If the answer to this question is “no”, put them back on the shelf.
2. Do they give you blisters? If it’s just one spot that rubs, you can get away with putting blister bandaids (linked here) on the spot. That said, if multiple spots are rubbing, it’s not you… it’s the shoe. Time to make a return.
Pick a Pair you can Wear Again
There is nothing less fun than spending a lot of money on something you can only wear once. Choose a pair that makes a statement but can also be worn for other purposes.
My Roundup of Graduation Shoe Favorites
Don’t feel like reading the full article? Click here to view my full round up report.
Wedges
Juliet Wedge (top): I love the chain detailing on this wedge! It makes it unique without being over the top. The metallic gold in the weaving would stand out when paired with something simplistic – like a white mini dress – or could be used more subtly when worn with something like a vibrant maxi.
Nezza Clear Wedge (middle): Clear shoes are very trendy this spring / summer season… which means this would be an awesome pair to buy for graduation (or even just a graduation party) and then have for events all summer long! The ankle strap promises support (so there won’t be any ankles rolled on stage)! Dress them with trousers for a day at the office.
Barona Wedge (bottom): These wedges remind me of what I used to dress my Polly Pockets in growing up… if that tells you anything about the late 90s trends being back! These would be fun ones to wear on vacay with a dress or a swimsuit and a sarong.
White Heels
Scallop Pump (top): I love the scallop detailing on these! They put such a fun twist on such a classic shoe. These shoes will carry you from graduation, to Easter church, to meetings in the office. This is a great pair for if you’re unsure with what to go with, but know you want something that can be worn again and again.
Gelato Heel (middle): The heel on these is so unique – I totally understand why it is referred to as the “gelato” heel. The ankle tie will make these an easy shoe to walk in, while the straps and heel will really make a statement as you are crossing the stage.
Colette Heel (bottom): If you are looking for a shoe that is both supportive and comfortable, this is the perfect pair for you. The cage-like structuring and slingback strap promise support, and the square heel will add extra cushion to your sole, making these a flat footed dream.
Vibrant Finds
Lafayette Heel (top): I have such a crush on these shoes. Though they may go against my rule of practicality… they are still within the price range that I think you can buy them and feel good about it. They’d go great with denim shorts and a puff sleeve top for the summer, or with a black dress for a bachelorette party, so you can 100% get wear out of them again.
Luci Wedge (middle): A pointed toe wedge in tangerine is a vacation-goer’s dream! Wear these right from the stage onto the plane for your upcoming beach vacay.
Isa Wedge (bottom): I love that these combine the clear shoe trend with the neon trend and make one, sturdy and affordable wedge that is perfect for an occasion like this (or a trip to the beach)!
