“What To Wear For Wedding Shoes?” Figuring out the right wedding shoes means finding the perfect blend of style, comfort, and how well they match your dress and overall wedding theme. This guide will help you explore all your bridal footwear options and find wedding shoe styles that truly shine.
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Picking Your Perfect Wedding Shoes
Your wedding day is a marathon, not a sprint! Your feet will be working hard all day long. Finding the right wedding shoes is about more than just looks. It’s about comfort and how well your shoes fit your personal style.
Considering Your Wedding Style
Your wedding shoes should fit your wedding’s overall vibe.
- Classic Wedding: Think elegant heels or classic pumps.
- Bohemian Wedding: Sandals, wedges, or even bare feet can work!
- Modern Wedding: Try bold colors or unique designs.
- Rustic Wedding: Cowboy boots or comfortable flats are great choices.
Think About Your Venue
Where you’re getting married matters a lot.
- Outdoor Wedding: Avoid stilettos that will sink into the grass. Wedges, flats, or block heels are better.
- Indoor Wedding: You can wear almost any heel height or style.
- Beach Wedding: Sandals, flip-flops, or going barefoot are all great choices.
Matching Your Wedding Dress
Your shoes should complement your dress, not compete with it. Shoes to match wedding dress might sound hard, but it is possible with these easy tips.
- Color: If your dress is ivory, pure white shoes might look too bright. Try ivory, champagne, or even a metallic shade.
- Embellishments: If your dress is heavily embellished, simple shoes are best. If your dress is simple, you can go for shoes with more details.
- Length: If your dress is long, people won’t see your shoes as much. Comfort might be your top priority. If your dress is short, your shoes will be a focal point, so choose wisely!
Exploring Wedding Shoe Styles
There are so many wedding shoe styles to choose from! Here’s a look at some popular bridal footwear options:
Heels
Heels can add height and elegance, but comfort is key.
- Stilettos: These are very dressy but can be hard to wear for long periods.
- Pumps: A classic choice that’s both stylish and (relatively) comfortable.
- Block Heels: These offer more support than stilettos, making them a good choice for outdoor weddings.
- Wedges: These are a comfortable and stylish option, especially for outdoor weddings.
Flats
Flats are a comfortable and practical choice, especially if you’re already tall or want to dance the night away.
- Ballet Flats: These are a classic and comfortable choice.
- Pointed-Toe Flats: These can look dressier than ballet flats.
- Sandals: Perfect for beach or summer weddings.
Other Wedding Shoe Alternatives
Think outside the box! There are many wedding shoe alternatives to consider.
- Boots: Cowboy boots can be great for a rustic wedding. Ankle boots can be a stylish choice for a modern wedding.
- Sneakers: If comfort is your top priority, why not wear sneakers? You can even find embellished sneakers for a touch of sparkle.
- Barefoot Sandals: These are a beautiful option for beach weddings.
Wedding Shoe Colors and Materials
Wedding shoe colors are no longer limited to white! And, wedding shoe materials can greatly impact comfort.
Colors
- White: A classic choice, but make sure it matches the shade of your dress.
- Ivory: A softer alternative to white.
- Champagne: A warm and elegant choice.
- Metallic: Gold, silver, or rose gold can add a touch of glamour.
- Blush: A romantic and feminine choice.
- Something Blue: A fun way to incorporate your “something blue.”
- Bold Colors: Don’t be afraid to add a pop of color! Red, purple, or green can be great choices for a modern wedding.
Materials
- Leather: Durable and classic.
- Satin: Elegant and dressy.
- Lace: Romantic and feminine.
- Velvet: Luxurious and stylish.
- Synthetic Materials: Can be more affordable and vegan-friendly.
Finding Comfortable Wedding Shoes
Comfort is key on your wedding day. You’ll be on your feet for hours!
Wedding Shoe Heel Height
- Consider Your Comfort Level: If you rarely wear heels, don’t start on your wedding day! Choose a heel height you’re comfortable with.
- Practice Walking: Wear your shoes around the house to break them in and get used to walking in them.
- Bring a Backup Pair: Have a pair of flats or comfortable shoes on hand in case your feet get tired.
Tips for Choosing Comfortable Shoes
- Look for shoes with good arch support.
- Choose shoes with a padded insole.
- Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose.
- Consider getting your shoes professionally fitted.
Wedding Shoe Trends
Keep up with the latest wedding shoe trends!
- Embellished Heels: Think pearls, crystals, or bows.
- Statement Shoes: Bold colors, unique designs, or unexpected materials.
- Comfortable Flats: More brides are choosing comfort over height.
- Personalized Shoes: Add your initials, wedding date, or a special message to your shoes.
Best Shoes for Wedding: More Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you find the best shoes for your wedding:
- Shop Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to buy your shoes. This will give you time to find the perfect pair and break them in.
- Read Reviews: See what other brides have to say about the shoes you’re considering.
- Consider Your Budget: Wedding shoes can range in price from affordable to luxurious. Set a budget and stick to it.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Return: If your shoes don’t fit properly or aren’t comfortable, don’t be afraid to return them.
Deciphering Wedding Shoe Embellishments
Shoes can be simple or fancy! Choosing the right details will add style to your outfit.
- Crystals: Give a sparkly, glamorous feel.
- Pearls: Add a classic, elegant touch.
- Lace: Creates a soft, romantic look.
- Bows: Offer a playful, feminine vibe.
- Buckles: Can give a modern, edgy feel.
Fathoming the Importance of Shoe Fit
A good fit is super important! Shoes that don’t fit well can hurt your feet and ruin your day.
- Get Measured: Have your feet measured by a professional.
- Try Them On: Walk around in the shoes to see how they feel.
- Consider Width: Make sure the shoes aren’t too narrow or too wide.
- Think About Swelling: Your feet might swell during the day, so buy shoes that have some wiggle room.
Grasping How to Break In Your Wedding Shoes
Breaking in your shoes is a must! Do it before the big day to avoid blisters.
- Wear Them at Home: Wear your shoes for short periods around the house.
- Use Thick Socks: Wear thick socks to stretch the shoes out.
- Use a Shoe Stretcher: A shoe stretcher can help widen tight shoes.
- Apply Moleskin: Apply moleskin to areas that rub to prevent blisters.
Interpreting Shoe Care for Your Big Day
Taking care of your shoes will keep them looking great.
- Clean Them: Clean your shoes before and after the wedding.
- Protect Them: Use a shoe protectant spray to protect them from stains.
- Store Them Properly: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place.
Wedding Shoe Materials
Material | Description | Pros | Cons | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|
Leather | Durable, classic material. | Long-lasting, comfortable, molds to your feet. | Can be expensive, requires regular care. | Classic, timeless styles. |
Satin | Smooth, shiny fabric. | Elegant, dressy, comes in many colors. | Can stain easily, not very durable. | Formal weddings, indoor venues. |
Lace | Delicate, decorative fabric. | Romantic, feminine, adds texture. | Can snag easily, may not be very supportive. | Vintage or bohemian-themed weddings. |
Velvet | Soft, plush fabric. | Luxurious, stylish, adds warmth. | Can be expensive, not suitable for warm weather. | Fall or winter weddings, formal events. |
Synthetic | Man-made materials like PU or PVC. | Affordable, vegan-friendly, water-resistant. | May not be as breathable or comfortable as natural materials. | Budget-conscious brides, outdoor weddings where water resistance is needed. |
Mesh | Net-like fabric. | Breathable, lightweight, adds a modern touch. | Can be delicate, may not be suitable for very formal events. | Summer weddings, modern styles. |
Embellishments | Pearls, crystals, beads, etc. | Adds sparkle and personality, enhances the overall look. | Can be expensive, may detach easily. | Brides who want a statement shoe. |
Wedding Shoe Considerations by Venue
Venue | Ideal Shoe Styles | Considerations |
---|---|---|
Beach | Sandals, flats, wedges, barefoot. | Avoid heels that will sink in the sand, consider the heat. |
Garden | Wedges, flats, block heels. | Opt for stability on grass, consider weather conditions. |
Ballroom | Heels, pumps, dressy flats. | Choose elegant styles, prioritize comfort for dancing. |
Barn/Rustic | Boots, flats, wedges. | Select durable options suitable for uneven ground, embrace the theme. |
City/Urban | Heels, pumps, stylish flats. | Focus on comfort for walking, choose trendy and chic designs. |
Church | Classic heels, pumps, elegant flats. | Select modest styles, consider the formality of the ceremony. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the best time to buy wedding shoes? Aim to buy your wedding shoes 4-6 months before your wedding. This gives you enough time for alterations and finding the perfect match.
- Can I wear colored shoes with a white dress? Yes! Colored shoes can be a fun way to add personality.
- Who is responsible for paying for the bride’s shoes? Traditionally, the bride or her family pays for her shoes, but this can vary.
- What heel height is best for a wedding? The best heel height is the one you’re most comfortable with.
- What are some comfortable wedding shoe options? Flats, wedges, and block heels are all comfortable options.
- What if my shoes hurt on my wedding day? Bring a backup pair of comfortable shoes, and use blister pads or moleskin.
- How do I clean my wedding shoes after the wedding? Follow the care instructions for the specific material of your shoes.
Choosing your wedding shoes should be a fun and exciting part of planning your big day. By considering your style, venue, and comfort, you can find the perfect pair of shoes to complete your wedding look!

David Ruperto is a Footwear Engineer with expertise in 3D printing, design, and pattern making. With a background in Fine Arts from CUNY and training from SLEM and Cordwainer’s Savannah, he blends creativity with innovation. Based in New York, he shares his knowledge on BestForShoes.com, helping others explore the world of footwear.