If you want your shoes to dazzle, there’s no better choice than sparkling shoes. Designers have been using glittering embellishments to make show-stopping shoes for decades.
Beloved by celebrities, influencers, and ‘it girls’ across the globe, these dazzling shoes have become a staple for trendsetters who seek to make a truly standout statement with their outfits. Donning a pair of these shimmering beauties is a surefire way to captivate attention and exude unparalleled style.
Below, we’ll share all the different ways a shoe can sparkle, along with style tips to help you flawlessly pull off this daring trend.
1. Sequins: Your Go-To for Instant Party Glam
Nothing says party like sequins! These dazzling discs, with their disco ball-like texture and incredible shine, will instantly give your outfit Studio 54 vibes. The beauty of sequins is that they can be as bold or subtle as you like, depending on the size, color, and finish of the sequins.
Sergio Rossi sequined ankle boots and Celine kitten heels in sequins offer standout options for adding bold or subtle sparkle to any outfit
Sergio Rossi’s silver sequin ankle boots are the perfect statement shoes, while Celine’s elegant kitten heels feature matte black sequins that are subtle enough for the office.
2. Crystal Shoes: Channel Your Inner Princess
Precious gems are another popular choice to add brilliance to otherwise plain shoes. The crystal shoe creates a magical, princess-like feeling that women love for special occasions like weddings and galas.
Jimmy Choo Alia crystal pumps and Rene Caovilla Cleo crystal sandals offer luxurious sparkle, making them perfect statement shoes for special occasions or glamorous events
Crystal embellishments are a favorite of luxury shoe designers like Jimmy Choo and Rene Caovilla and have been used to enhance formal shoes for centuries.
These dollar-sign-motif Swarovski crystal-encrusted heels from Giuseppe Zanotti make a statement (Credit: Andres Otero/ WENN)
An Austrian brand name for a range of precision-cut crystal glass, Swarovski often collaborates with Giuseppe Zanotti, Jimmy Choo, and other footwear designers to create crystal-embellished evening pumps and sandals for celebrities and shoe lovers.
Since Swarovski’s manmade “simulated diamonds” are not real diamonds, they are cheaper than diamonds mined from the ground.
Jane Krakowski attends a party co-hosted by shoemaker Jimmy Choo and crystal manufacturer Daniel Swarovski at Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills on March 20, 2000 (Credit: WENN)
3. Glitter Shoes: The Fun and Festive Alternative to Crystals
This enchanting texture offers all the sparkles of crystals without being so delicate. Rather than being made up of tiny gemstones, glitter is made up of sparkling particles that are generally derived from metals like aluminum and plastic.
It’s glued onto shoes to give them that magical sparkle.
Jimmy Choo, Miu Miu, and Giuseppe Zanotti glitter sandals showcase glamorous designs perfect for adding a festive sparkle to any formal outfit
Glitter is another signature Jimmy Choo embellishment, but playful designers such as Miu Miu and Giuseppe Zanotti also use it.
4. Pearl Shoes: The Ultimate Symbol of Elegance
Often referred to as the diamonds of the sea, pearls offer shoes a sophisticated shine and ladylike feel. They’re often used to create eye-catching ankle straps and heels, as displayed by luxury shoe legend Stuart Weitzman and avant-garde shoe queen Sophia Webster.
Sophia Webster’s Natalia pearl heels and Stuart Weitzman’s Nudist Disco pearl-embellished sandals bring a sophisticated touch of elegance, perfect for adding a chic, glamorous flair to any outfit
Perfect Occasions to Shine in Sparkling Shoes
Unsurprisingly, these stunning styles are often reserved for special occasions. Sparkling shoes are most often worn for extravagant parties, nights out, and weddings.
Sparkling heels are an excellent way to take your outfit to the next level and truly make it stand out, so they are often the footwear of choice for brides who want to go all out on their big day.
Brides often opt for heels that are sparkling with crystals, glitters, or sequins to create a standout look (Credit: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock)
You can still make sparkling shoes appropriate for the day by choosing casual styles with a subtle shine. Glitter sneakers are the perfect example.
This playful design has been created by everyone, from high-end designers such as Chloe and Alexander McQueen to classic sneaker brands like Converse and Vans.
Chloe, Vans, Alexander McQueen, and Converse glitter sneakers add a fun, sparkling twist to casual footwear, perfect for effortlessly elevating everyday looks with a touch of glamour
Styling Sparkling Shoes: Let the Shoes Steal the Show
Sparkling shoes will undoubtedly be the talking point of any outfit, so it’s best to put them in the spotlight and keep the rest of your outfit simple. Stick to solid colors and simple fabrics that won’t clash against your sparkling shoes.
You can still choose rich, luxurious textures like silk and chiffon – make sure they feel minimal compared to the shoes.
For example, a slinky silk jumpsuit could be paired with glitter heels for a chic retro vibe for a party. If you’re going for a casual vibe, elevate your jeans and t-shirt ensemble with a pair of glitter sneakers for a touch of sparkle.
1. Cami NYC Jackie halter neck stretch silk jumpsuit, 2. Badgley Mischka Lovely stiletto mules, 3. Re/Done Los Angeles tee, 4. Nobody Denim Geo skinny ankle jeans, 5. Golden Goose Superstar leather sneakers — offering a mix of elevated and casual pieces for any occasion
You can double up on sparkles if you’re going to an extra special event, such as a wedding or a high-end party. Just be sure to break it up so you’re not shining from head to toe.
For example, you could wear a glitter top with glitter shoes but add a simple contrast with a solid-colored skirt. Also, be mindful of the colors you’re wearing. If you’re wearing gold glitter shoes, you probably won’t want to pair them with a neon green top or dress.
Stick to a monochromatic color scheme, and when in doubt, choose neutral shades like black and white that will pair well with anything.
1. In The Mood For Love glitter square-neck top, 2. Maje front-slit midi skirt, 3. Sophia Webster Camille sandals, 4. Kay Unger Khloe floral illusion lace dress, 5. Gianvito Rossi glitter stiletto sandal — a mix of elegant and playful pieces for sparkling style at any event
Sparkling shoes are must-haves for any woman who loves glamor and indulgence. Whether you’re headed for a big night out or want to add a touch of luxury to your everyday look, there’s a sparkle shoe out there!
Which type of sparkle will you choose?