What Goes With Taupe Shoes?

Taupe seems like a tricky neutral – not quite brown, not quite gray – and many people feel unsure about how to wear it. The truth is, the color is super versatile and chic, you just have to know how to work with it. From earthy strappy sandals to sleek ankle booties, taupe shoes are timeless. Don't be surprised if the shade becomes your new go-to for all your favorite outfits.

Pairing taupe lace-up Oxfords or heels with a light-colored linen suit in tan, khaki or heather gray is subtle and classic. No other shoe color matches both warm earth tones and cool, steely grays, so taupe makes dressing up easy. Complete the look with a crisp white blouse. If you're shopping for your guy, taupe suede or leather lace-up dress shoes look amazing with a slim-fit, light-gray plaid suit, a blue shirt and a blue tie. Or, go with a white shirt and a bold yellow tie for contrast and a pop of color.

Taupe summer sandals can have a very boho vibe. They blend beautifully with white and other pale shades that tend to come into season in the warmer months. You can't go wrong with a flowing white sundress styled with taupe gladiator or T-strap sandals. Or, dress the sandals down with a pair of blue-and-white seersucker shorts and a white blouse. Taupe can also hold its own against vibrant, saturated colors like indigo, tangerine, bright yellow and pink, so have fun with some ’70s-inspired prints.

Taupe can be the color mediator when you want to mix warm and cool tones. A taupe ankle boot is a showstopper with dark denim jeans, a dark-gray wool coat and a warm, ochre-colored top. Neither black nor brown could possibly tie this look together as well as taupe would. The color also gives you the freedom to accessorize with warm tones, like gold jewelry and rich autumn hues, as well as with cool tones, like silver jewelry and winter grays and blues.

Taupe shoes can add an elegant flair to an outfit. Wear a pair of dark-taupe suede pumps with a sophisticated all-black outfit. For example, if you're wearing a black pencil-skirt suit with a sheer black blouse underneath, add a pair of taupe suede stilettos instead of the typical black pump for an unexpected twist.