Ever tried on a pair of cutout shoes and felt unsure about your look?
Maybe they seemed perfect in the store but awkward at home. Cutout shoes are bold, stylish, and full of personality. They can elevate any outfit with their unique charm.
What Are Cutout Shoes?
Cutout shoes have openings or patterns carved into their material. These openings reveal parts of your feet, like toes, sides, or ankles. They come in many forms: sandals, flats, heels, pumps, or boots.
Cutouts can be small and subtle or large and dramatic. They add a playful, airy feel to footwear. Popular in warm climates, they’re now a year-round favorite with clever styling.
Cutout shoes stand out. They blend casual comfort with dressy flair. They keep your feet cool in summer heat. They add a modern twist to basic outfits. From a picnic to a party, they fit many occasions. But to make them work, you need to know the rules. Let’s dive into the do’s and don’ts.
The Do’s of Wearing Cutout Shoes
Do Choose the Right Size
Fit is everything with cutout shoes. Too big, and your feet slide around. This looks messy and feels unstable. Too small, and the shoes pinch or stretch the cutouts oddly. Always try shoes on before buying.
Walk around the store to test comfort. If shopping online, check size charts and read reviews. A perfect fit makes all the difference.
Do Keep Your Feet Clean
Cutout shoes put your feet on display. Dirty feet, cracked heels, or chipped nail polish ruin the vibe. Wash your feet daily with soap and water.
Exfoliate weekly to remove dead skin. Moisturize to keep skin soft. Get a pedicure every few weeks or paint your toenails at home. Choose neutral or bold polish to match your style. Clean, polished feet make cutout shoes pop.
Do Match the Occasion
Not all cutout shoes suit every event. Sandals with cutouts are ideal for casual settings. Think beach trips, picnics, or coffee runs. Heels or pumps with cutouts work for dressier occasions.
Cutout boots can bridge casual and formal looks. Check the event’s vibe before choosing. Matching the occasion keeps your outfit on point.
Do Pair with Simple Outfits
Cutout shoes are attention-grabbers. They don’t need flashy clothes to shine. Stick to simple, solid-colored outfits. A white sundress with cutout sandals looks fresh and summery.
Black skinny jeans with cutout ankle boots feel chic and edgy. Neutral tones like beige or gray let the shoes stand out. If you love patterns, choose subtle ones, like thin stripes or small florals.
Do Consider the Weather
Cutout shoes are perfect for warm, dry days. The openings let air flow, keeping your feet cool. In cooler months, pair them with socks or tights for warmth. Thin, sheer tights work with cutout heels for a polished look.
Avoid cutout shoes in rain or snow. Water can soak your feet and damage the material. Check the forecast before stepping out.
Do Experiment with Colors
Cutout shoes come in endless colors. Neutrals like black, white, or nude are versatile. They match almost any outfit. Bold colors like red, cobalt, or emerald make a statement. Metallic shades, like gold or silver, add glamour for evening looks.
Pastels, like blush or mint, feel soft and feminine. Pick colors that complement your wardrobe and personality. Don’t be afraid to mix and match.
Do Maintain Your Shoes
Cutout shoes need extra care. Dust and dirt collect in the openings. Clean them after each wear. Use a damp cloth for canvas or synthetic shoes. For leather, use a leather cleaner and conditioner. Brush suede gently with a suede brush.
Store shoes in a cool, dry place, preferably in dust bags. Avoid stacking them to prevent crushing the cutouts. Well-maintained shoes look fresh longer.
Do Pay Attention to Comfort
Style shouldn’t mean pain. Cutout shoes must feel good. Look for cushioned insoles or arch support. Ensure the cutouts don’t rub or irritate your skin. For long days, choose flats or low heels over high stilettos. If you’re new to cutouts, start with simpler designs. Comfortable shoes boost your confidence and keep you smiling.
Do Balance the Look
Cutout shoes draw eyes to your feet. Keep the rest of your outfit understated to avoid overdoing it. Skip loud accessories like chunky necklaces or bright scarves. Opt for delicate jewelry, like stud earrings or a thin bracelet. A sleek handbag or clutch pairs well. This balance highlights your shoes without overwhelming the look.
Do Try Different Styles
Cutout shoes offer endless variety. Gladiator sandals have bold, strappy cutouts for a boho vibe. Ballet flats with laser-cut patterns feel delicate and feminine. Ankle boots with side cutouts look modern and edgy. Pumps with toe or heel cutouts add sophistication. Experiment with different styles to find your favorites. Mix them with casual and formal outfits for versatility.
Do Break Them In
New cutout shoes can be stiff or tight. Wearing them for hours right away risks blisters. Break them in at home first. Wear them for 30 minutes a day, increasing the time gradually. Use band-aids on potential rub spots. This softens the material and molds the shoes to your feet. Breaking them in ensures comfort on big days.
The Don’ts of Wearing Cutout Shoes
Don’t Wear Socks with Open-Toe Cutouts
Socks with open-toe cutout sandals look off. They clash with the light, summery feel. If you need coverage, choose cutout ankle boots or closed-toe pumps. Pair them with thin, neutral socks or patterned tights. This keeps the look cohesive and stylish, especially in cooler weather.
Don’t Ignore Foot Hygiene
Exposed feet demand good hygiene. Sweaty, smelly, or unkempt feet are a no-go. Use foot powder or antiperspirant for sweat control. Trim toenails regularly. Avoid wearing cutout shoes after a long, sweaty day without freshening up. Good hygiene keeps you confident and your shoes looking great.
Don’t Overdo Accessories
Cutout shoes are bold enough. Piling on accessories creates a cluttered look. Avoid statement necklaces, oversized sunglasses, or loud belts. Stick to minimal pieces, like a simple watch or small hoop earrings. This lets your shoes take center stage without competition.
Don’t Wear Ill-Fitting Shoes
Poorly fitting shoes ruin your outfit and hurt your feet. Too-tight shoes cause pain and distort the cutouts. Too-loose shoes slip off and look sloppy. Don’t buy shoes hoping they’ll “stretch out.” Test the fit thoroughly. If they don’t feel right, return or exchange them.
Don’t Wear Cutouts to Ultra-Formal Events
Cutout shoes lean casual or semi-formal. They’re often out of place at black-tie events, like galas or formal weddings. If you want cutouts, choose sleek, closed-toe heels with subtle cutouts. Pair with an elegant gown or tailored suit. Avoid open-toe sandals or overly strappy designs in these settings.
Don’t Forget Proportions
Cutout shoes affect how your legs appear. Strappy sandals can shorten the look of your legs, especially if they wrap high. Cutout boots or pumps with ankle cutouts elongate the legs. Consider your height and body type when choosing. Taller people can pull off bold straps, while petite frames suit simpler cutouts.
Don’t Wear Damaged Shoes
Scuffed or torn cutout shoes look cheap. Damage in the cutout areas is especially noticeable. Check your shoes before wearing them. Polish leather to hide small scratches. Repair minor tears with shoe glue. Replace heavily worn pairs. Pristine shoes elevate your entire outfit.
Don’t Clash Colors
Color clashes confuse the eye. Bright cutout shoes with a busy, colorful outfit look chaotic. Stick to a unified color palette. For example, red cutout heels pop against a black dress. Neutral shoes pair well with vibrant outfits. Use a color wheel if you’re unsure what matches.
Don’t Ignore the Season
Cutout sandals scream summer. Wearing them in snowy winter looks out of place and feels cold. In colder months, opt for cutout boots or closed-toe pumps. Pair with tights or socks for warmth. Save open-toe cutouts for spring and summer to stay seasonal.
Don’t Skip Breaking Them In
Unworn cutout shoes can rub or pinch. Don’t wear them for a full day without breaking them in. Walk around at home to soften them. Wear socks during this process to prevent blisters. A little prep saves you from pain later.
Don’t Overlook Material Quality
Cheap materials wear out fast. Thin, flimsy cutouts tear easily. Invest in quality materials like leather or suede. They last longer and look polished. Check stitching and glue around cutouts for durability. Quality shoes are worth the price.
Styling Tips for Cutout Shoes
Cutout sandals shine in casual settings. Pair them with denim shorts and a flowy tank top for summer vibes. Add a straw hat for extra flair. Cutout flats work with cropped jeans and a tucked-in blouse. These outfits suit brunches, errands, or park days.
Cutout shoes can be office-appropriate with care. Choose closed-toe pumps or heels with subtle cutouts. Pair with tailored trousers and a crisp button-down shirt. A blazer adds polish. Stick to neutral colors like black or navy for professionalism.
Cutout heels are perfect for nights out. Wear them with a sleek midi dress or a jumpsuit. Metallic or bold-colored cutouts add drama for date nights or parties. Keep jewelry simple, like a delicate necklace or cuff bracelet, to maintain elegance.
Cutout ankle boots are winter-friendly. Pair them with opaque tights and a wool sweater dress. Add a long coat and scarf for warmth. Dark or neutral boots blend seamlessly with winter wardrobes. Avoid open-toe cutouts in freezing weather.
Cutout gladiator sandals suit boho or festival outfits. Wear them with a maxi skirt and a cropped top. Layer with a kimono or fringed vest. Add a wide-brimmed hat and layered necklaces for a free-spirited vibe.
Cutout shoes are a bold, exciting addition to any wardrobe. They offer endless styling possibilities, from casual to glamorous. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll wear them like a pro.
