While we like to think there isn’t a rulebook in fashion, our shoes are an exception. Not only are there practicalities involved with wearing certain shoes, but there are also social standards.
Peep-toe and open-toe shoes are the first styles that come to mind. These shoes are the subject of fierce controversy in the fashion world. When can you wear peep-toe shoes? Should you ever wear open-toe shoes?
Office Appropriateness of Open-Toe Shoes
One of the most common questions involving this shoe style is whether it’s office-appropriate. Unlike traditional high-heels like the sling-back or court heel, open-toe shoes are rarely appropriate to wear to work.
Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, GCVO, is always seen in closed-toe heels, as open-toed shoes are considered informal footwear in royal circles (Credit: Lia Toby / WENN / ATP)
Royal Fashion and Open-Toe Shoes
If you’re a follower of royal fashion, you’ll know that open-toed shoes are a no-go for working royals as they’re viewed as informal shoes.
Workplaces with a more casual dress code might allow you to wear peep-toe shoes. Open-toe shoes are usually not appropriate for most offices.
Workplace Dress Codes and Open-Toe Shoes
Some workplaces make specific references to open-toe shoes in their employee handbook, so it’s worth checking if your employer has dress code regulations. If your office doesn’t allow flip-flops, they likely won’t like your open-toe shoes.
Choosing Peep-Toe Shoes for the Office
A pair of black peep-toe heels of moderate height, like the Bandolino Rainaa pumps from Zappos, is likely appropriate for most office settings.
Peep-toe shoes are more formal than open-toe shoes as they have a more conservative silhouette.
Featuring a peep-toe silhouette, easy slip-on styling, and a platform with a slim-wrapped heel, this Bandolino pump is a comfortable pair of shoes to wear to work
If you want a pair of peep-toe heels for the office, choose a neutral color in patent leather with a mid-height heel.
Balancing Office Outfits With Peep-Toe Shoes
You’ll also want to keep your outfit office-appropriate with a longer hemline and higher neckline to balance out the peep-toe shoes.
For comfy, casual workplace attire, Nordstrom recommends pairing Vince Camuto’s Avira slide sandals with an elastic-waist jumpsuit and a spacious tote handbag.
Women’s business outfit with classic open-toe slide sandals and a split neck jumpsuit with floaty kimono-style sleeves
Seasonal Appropriateness and Occasions for Open-Toe Shoes
When should you wear open-toe shoes? These kinds of shoes are a go-to when the temperature rises in the summer.
If you’re heading to a summer wedding, you might want to consider experimenting with this shoe style. Events listed as having a black-tie dress code on the invitation are inappropriate for open-toe shoes.
Peep-toe heels are a popular choice of shoes for a bridal party, who take advantage of the peek-a-boo style to add a touch of playfulness to their outfit. Peep-toe shoes are sexier than open-toe shoes, making them the perfect choice for date nights or going out on the town.
Practical Considerations for Wearing Open-Toe Shoes
The functionality of open-toe shoes will also determine whether you can wear them to work. While Carrie Bradshaw might have shown that wearing these shoes in the snow is possible, it’s not ideal.
A two-piece asymmetrical belted suit, slim-fitting trousers, and classic straight skirt styled with open-toe and peep-toe shoes
You should save your peep-toe shoes when the weather is warmer, and the occasion calls for something a little sexier than a court shoe.
You can wear open-toe shoes with anything from jeans and a T-shirt to a body-con dress. Adding a pair of peek-toe shoes is an easy way to give any outfit a sexy flare.
Open-Toe Shoes Across Seasons
Most of us consider open-toe shoes spring and summer essentials, but peep-toe boots allow you to carry the style through to fall and winter.
Open-toe booties are an ideal transitional piece between seasons and offer your shoes a little extra protection when the temperatures start to drop. If the weather forecast calls for snow or rain, you’ll want to leave your peep-toe shoes at home.
Conclusion: Navigating Fashion Norms with Open-Toe and Peep-Toe Shoes
In conclusion, the fashion world, particularly concerning open-toe and peep-toe shoes, is marked by a blend of practical considerations and social standards. Whether it’s the formality required in office settings, the unwritten rules of royal fashion, or the appropriateness for different seasons and occasions, these shoe styles navigate a complex landscape.
While open-toe shoes are often deemed too casual for formal workplaces and royal engagements, peep-toe shoes provide a more conservative silhouette, making them suitable for many office environments and formal occasions.
Seasonal changes also dictate their suitability, with warmer months favoring open-toe styles. Ultimately, the choice of wearing open-toe or peep-toe shoes should be guided by a combination of personal style, comfort, and adherence to the social and professional norms of the setting.