For some people, white shoes on Easter are an annual tradition. The color of the outfit doesn't matter, although it will probably be some shade of pastel or other light hue. Regardless of the color of the dress or suit, for traditionalists, the shoes sported on Easter Sunday are always white.
Why White Shoes on Easter
Where you grew up often has a bearing on whether or not your Easter footwear is white. For people from the Deep South in the US, white Easter shoes are as much a part of their lives as grits and sweet tea. People who abide by such fashion rules also usually advise no white shoes after Labor Day. While some modern types choose to ignore what they feel are outdated rules, others stick by them religiously.
Since Easter Sunday is such an important day of celebration in many Christian denominations, this is one day when children and adults alike pull out all the stops for church services. Little girls often sport fancy, ruffled socks atop their white Mary Janes. Women can finally pull out their white pumps, slingbacks or sandals. Even men who wouldn't normally wear white shoes can feel comfortable and perfectly appropriate in a pair worn with their best Sunday suit. The white helps to symbolize the whole theme of rebirth that fits into the day.
How to Wear Your White Shoes
Even if you're not a traditionalist, you can still enjoy wearing your bright, white shoes on Easter. To make the best impression, consider these tips:
- Light hose or socks: Wear nude or white pantyhose or trouser socks with your white shoes. Dark hose with white shoes is a no-no.
- Light outfit: White shoes on Easter always look best with an outfit in a color that doesn't overpower them. When it comes to Easter fashion, retailers stock a lot of pastels, but you don't have to wear pale lavender if you think it washes you out. Whatever shade you choose, leave black, burgundy and deep violet at home; choose white, lemon yellow, robin's egg blue or other spring-appropriate colors instead.
- Clean them up: Your shoes don't have to be brand new, but they should look it. White shoes are notoriously difficult to keep sparkling, so clean off any scuff marks or obvious dirt before Easter rolls around.
Other Easter Shoe Alternatives
If white shoes just aren't your cup of tea, you don't have to wear them, regardless of what your Southern grandmother might say. Other shoe colors that are just as appropriate for Easter Sunday include:
- Pale pink
- Hot pink
- Purple
- Sky blue
- Yellow
- Ivory
- Beige
- Tan or brown (for the men)
Shop Early
The week before Easter isn't the best time to shop for white shoes. Because this Sunday doesn't always fall in the same month every year, check your calendars and hit the stores at least a month beforehand for the widest selection. Otherwise, you risk missing out on a pair of shoes since many people begin their Easter shopping well in advance.
Finish the Look
Whether or not white shoes have always been part of your Easter ensemble, you can take full advantage of this special day by adding a beautiful, wide-brimmed hat, white purse and gloves to your outfit. Look for the most ruffled ankle socks you can find for the little girl in your life and don't forget to outfit a young boy in a smart suit or sport coat. Your entire family can be ready for this special day from your heads to your feet -- in white shoes, of course.
