The Party Shoes Guide (for Men & Women)

Introducing our top party shoe picks for men & women

Female model sitting on the carpet wearing Russell and Bromley Spotlight crystal knee high boot
the ultimate party shoes guide

Party shoes are undeniably one of the most exciting types of footwear to choose. Whether you are in the midst of prepping your next party season outfits, or you have just received an invitation to your next big cocktail event, dressing up for a party is as playful and fun as the celebratory event itself. But when it comes to choosing the perfect party shoe, the options can seem endless.  

From dressing up for Christmas work drinks, to hosting a family party, or attending a glitzy birthday bash, there are countless party venues and shoe options to consider. To make the selection process easier, we’ve rounded up some of our best party shoe looks for women and men in this helpful guide. We explain the different types of party footwear on offer, while sharing top tips on what to wear to a party and how to wear party shoes in maximum comfort. Get those dance moves ready.  

Russell and Bromley Topform classic platform sandals
Russell and Bromley Keeble 3 mens tassel college loafer

How to choose your best party shoes

Selecting the best party shoes for your event is often influenced by the event location and situation itself. Are you heading on a night out where the dancefloor will feature heavily? If so, then comfortable dancing shoes will be your likely top choice. Or perhaps you are attending a glamorous press or influencer event where an exclusive after-party is definitely on the cards. On such occasions, it makes sense to pick after-party ready shoes that are smart and glamorous while also being hip enough to be a key talking point. You might simply be looking for classic Christmas party heels that make an impact. In each instance, it’s always a good idea to keep in mind the following 3 things to help you pick top party shoes that will work, whatever the event:

1) Select comfortable styles: Make sure comfort is at the core of the style you choose, as you will probably be spending a lot of time on your feet. Opting for designs with sumptuous leather soles and extra insole padding is a good idea to elevate your comfort levels. Also pick a heel height that you are naturally comfortable with, and one that you know you will be able to fit in all night long.  

2) Consider your overall outfit: Pick a party shoe that you know will work wonders with the outfit that you have chosen for your forthcoming event. If you are wearing a lively printed or colour-drenched look, then set a balanced tone by choosing shoes with more neutral colours to compose your overall ensemble. Or perhaps you are wearing classic party outfits like the little black dress or tailored suit. With these sleek and sophisticated styles, you can add drama by opting for shoes in glossy metallic leathers, or designs with head-turning colour-contrast soles. Also don’t forget about the party bag too. 

Russell and Bromley Kitty clutch bag

3) Practice makes perfect: It’s best to always avoid wearing new party shoes for the first time on the actual day of the party, as this can lead to discomfort and blistering. So wear them around the house first to get use to the fit and allow the leather to loosen and adjust to the shape of your feet.  

Russell and Bromley Miley caged fisherman platform in black
Russell and Bromley Kitty loafers

Selecting your party shoe style

Once you have considered the practical party shoe details, it’s time to get creative and pick out your favourite party shoe looks based on what you love. Here, we have rounded up some of the best men’s and women’s party shoe styles for the taking: 

Top party shoes for women:

Make a grand entrance with stylish women’s party shoes in luxurious materials. The most important thing is to pick out designs that reflect your own sense of personal style: 

 
1. Party heels:  

For many, party heels are the most iconic night-out shoe you can ask for. The epitome of elegance, glamour and height, these reliable party must-haves not only make you look taller on the dance floor, but they also come in a dizzying array of heel shapes and colours. The classic black party pump is a solid choice that goes with anything, while lofty block heel party shoes raise the glam factor thanks to their sculpturally shaped bold heel. Go for slingback party heels if you want to stay snug and secure, thanks to their adjustable heel straps, or slide into low heel party court shoes in classic colours like nude, blush or beige, as these classic styles are highly versatile when it comes to mixing and matching with different dresses and skirts.  

Russell and Bromley Zing shoe in pink
Zing

£295

Russell and Bromley Slingback shoe in pink
Slingback

£245

Russell and Bromley Kitty heeled loafer
Kitty

£325

Russell and Bromley Visionary heels in red
Visionary

£295

2. Party boots:   

If you want to step in a fresh direction with your party shoes, then why not consider party boots featuring trending pointed and block heels. These highly wearable and versatile styles are a natural choice for an avant-garde look. Sleek sock boots are also having a moment in the spotlight thanks to their leg-lengthening silhouettes and racy skin-tight fits. Or consider stylish stiletto or ankle boots adorned with entrancing metallic hardware and zip-detailed closures.   

3. Party sandals: 

As the ideal go-to choice for when summer rolls around, or a beach party is calling your name, party sandals are great choices if you want to show off your painted toenails, or feel that little bit more relaxed. Pick out peep-toe party mules with crystal embellishments that glint in the sunlight (or strobe lights), or choose simple party flats in captivating colours for a style that is full of comfort and fun. Also don’t forget about power platform sandals if you need a luxurious style that will lift you up, in more ways than one.  

Russell and Bromley Blondie stacked platform heels in brown
Blondie

£275

Russell and Bromley Groovybaby platform sandals in orange
Groovybaby

£275

Russell and Bromley Cake shoe in black
Cake

£245

Russell and Bromley Topline platform sandal in pink
Topline

£225

4. Cocktail party shoes: 

When the party is an ultra-stylish affair, then choose remarkable occasion shoes that shine and dazzle. Metallic mojito and strappy heels in glistening gold and silver are guaranteed to make a memorable impression at any cocktail soirée, or opt for sparkly party shoes that are studded in rhinestone diamante charms. If it’s the wow factor you want at a party, then a cocktail shoe should do it!

Russell and Bromley Kitty heeled loafer
Female model wearing Russell and Bromley Kitty heeled loafer and holding Kitty clutch bag

Top party shoes for men:

 
The best men’s party shoes are those that seamlessly blend comfort and practicality with edgy and eye-catching details: 
 
1. Party Loafers:  

The timeless leather loafer offers a sleek and streamlined silhouette that will always look sophisticated at any party. Featuring classic piping and a slightly raised heel, this signature design can be bought in glossy show-off styles made from croc-effect or patent leathers, as well as heritage looks laced with gold snaffle trims. 

Russell and Bromley Uppermost weave detail mens loafer
Uppermost

£225

Russell and Bromley Zeno mens loafer in navy blue
Zeno

£325

Russell and Bromley Keeble 3 tassel college mens loader
Tassel

£275

Russell and Bromley Carmel mens suede loafer in pink
Carmel

£245

 

2. Occasion Oxfords and Derby Shoes:  

Oxford and derby shoes are a great men’s party shoe choice if you want to balance the smart with the casual. Think after-work parties or weekend dinner and drinks with friends. Find them in simple shapes with colour-contrast crepe soles for more relaxed and low-key parties, or dial up the style stakes with suave varieties crafted from high-shine leathers or luxurious suede accents.

Russell and Bromley Hove M - mens Soft Lace Up Derby in blue
Russell and Bromley Hove M - mens Soft Lace Up Derby in green

3. Statement Slip-Ons: 

Dressing up for stylish dinner and dance parties is easy when you opt for men’s party slip-ons. These deluxe designs often come in velvety suede or intricately embroidered finishes that look sensational when paired up with a striking tuxedo jacket or tailored trousers. For the bolder dresser, discover statement-making styles featuring patterns leopard prints or hand-stitched logo emblems.  

Russell and Bromley Oporto mens shoes in brown
Oporto

£245

Russell and Bromley Hove M - mens Soft Lace Up Derby in blue
Hove M

£245

Russell and Bromley Keeble 4 tassel college men's loafer
Keeble 4

£275

Russell and Bromley Stratus toe cap men's oxford shoes
Stratus

£325

4. Party trainers: 

Last but not least, we shouldn’t overlook men’s party trainers. Perfect for parties where the dress code is whatever you want it to be, these comfy styles can be as statement or trend-led as you like. Look to retro sneakers in supple leathers featuring animal-effect crocodile patterns for maximum style points, or play it smooth with smart laceless styles in textured grained leather. It’s time to relax, round up your friends and celebrate the good life in style.