Choosing The Perfect Bridesmaid Shoes: A Guide

Choosing the right shoes for your bridesmaids can be as difficult as finding the right dress. There are many factors to consider, such as comfort, style, and cost. While you want your bridesmaids to look their best, it's also important that they feel comfortable and confident. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect shoes for your bridesmaids. Firstly, involve your bridesmaids in the decision-making process. Their input and feedback are valuable, and they can help you choose a style that everyone is happy with. Secondly, consider the venue and season of the wedding. Stilettos, for example, may not be suitable for a beach or grassy venue, while closed-toe shoes are more appropriate for winter weddings. Thirdly, comfort is key. Your bridesmaids will be on their feet all day, so choose shoes with good support and a comfortable heel height. You may even want to suggest a backup pair of flats for the reception. Finally, don't forget to think about the cost. Discuss budgets with your bridesmaids and look for options that fit within everyone's price range.

Comfort is key

When it comes to choosing shoes for your bridesmaids, comfort is key. Your bridesmaids will be on their feet all day, running around helping you, so the last thing they need is to be struggling with sore feet in a pair of dizzyingly high heels.

If your bridesmaids are not used to wearing heels, make sure there is a flat option available. It's absolutely fine to mix and match, so long as no one's look clashes or stands out too much. If your bridesmaids are wearing short dresses and you want a uniform look, set specific guidelines, such as nude pumps or black patent peep-toes, and then let them pick something within that parameter that suits their budget and their feet.

If you're set on heels, opt for wedges, kitten or block heels, or even flats instead of stilettos. You could also consider a mix-and-match approach, with one bridesmaid in open-toe sandals and another in closed stiletto heels.

The venue and date of your wedding should also be considered when choosing shoes. Stilettos are not ideal for beaches or grassy marquees, but they're fine in a ballroom setting. Sandals and strappy shoes are too chilly for winter weddings, so a closed-toe option is preferable if your wedding is between November and March.

Leather or suede shoes will be the most pleasant for your bridesmaids' feet, and they'll also be able to wear them again afterward.

Collaborate with your bridesmaids

The most important thing is to keep your bridesmaids happy and comfortable. After all, they will be running around helping you on your big day, so the last thing they need is sore feet or to be worried about tripping up!

It's a good idea to involve your bridesmaids in the decision-making process. This way, you can be sure that they will be comfortable and happy with their shoes. Ask them how much they are comfortable spending, and take their preferences into account. If they have never worn heels in their life, make sure there is a flat option available.

If your bridesmaids are wearing short dresses, you may want to give them some guidelines on the style and colour of their shoes to maintain a cohesive look. For example, you could suggest nude pumps, black patent peep-toes, or even a fun twist on your own bridal shoes.

If your bridesmaids are wearing long dresses, their shoes are less likely to be seen, so you can opt for something more casual and comfortable, like neutral ballet flats, sandals, or sneakers.

If you're set on a uniform look, try to organise a day for everyone to get together and try on shoes. This way, you can get a feel for the various brands, sizing, and styles, and it will be easier to narrow down your options.

Remember, comfort is key! Your bridesmaids will be on their feet all day, so opt for wedges, kitten or block heels, or even flats instead of stilettos if you want to keep them happy.

Consider the price

When choosing shoes for your bridesmaids, it's important to consider the price. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Firstly, it's common for bridesmaids to purchase their own footwear. They may have already spent a significant amount on their outfits and other expenses related to the wedding, so it's important to be considerate of their financial situation. Discuss with them how much they are comfortable spending on shoes, and try to find options within that price range. This will ensure that they don't feel pressured or strained financially.

If you are in a position to be generous, you might consider treating your bridesmaids and paying for their shoes. In this case, it's still important to be mindful of your own budget and choose shoes that are reasonably priced. There is no need to spend a fortune on bridesmaid shoes, as many affordable options can still look stylish and elegant.

To find the best deals, start your search early and conduct thorough research. Visit wedding shows, browse online, and look for sales or discounts. Budget-friendly options can often be found in bridal shoe collections, silver and gold evening shoe collections, or even shoes that your bridesmaids already own. You can also mix and match different styles and brands to create a cohesive look without breaking the bank.

Additionally, consider the reusability of the shoes. Choosing classic styles, neutral colours, or shoes that match your bridesmaids' personal tastes can increase the likelihood that they will wear the shoes again after the wedding. This can help justify a higher price point and ensure that your bridesmaids feel they are getting good value for their money.

Remember, comfort should be a priority when selecting bridesmaid shoes. While you want to consider the price, don't compromise on comfort to save a few dollars. Uncomfortable shoes can lead to a miserable experience for your bridesmaids, so opt for styles that provide support and comfort, such as wedges, kitten heels, block heels, or even flats.

Think about the venue and date

When choosing shoes for your bridesmaids, it's important to consider the venue and date of your wedding. Stilettos, for example, are a good choice for a ballroom setting but not so much for a beach or grassy marquee. If you're getting married on the sand or grass, flat shoes or block low heels are a better option.

The time of year will also influence your choice of shoe. Sandals and strappy shoes might be too chilly for winter weddings, so a closed-toe option is preferable. Conversely, open-toe shoes are more common for warmer wedding days. If you're getting married in the spring, be mindful of the possibility of mud and wet grass. Even if you're usually a pro at walking in heels, bring a backup pair of flats just in case.

If your wedding is in the winter, closed-toe shoes are a must to keep your bridesmaids' toes warm. Look for chic closed-toe pumps or wedding booties that can also be worn after the wedding. Insulating materials like velvet or suede will keep feet cosy, and details like faux fur accents or thermal lining will add extra comfort.

For summer nuptials, sandals are a great choice. Stilettos, block heels, or flats in a variety of colours and styles can complement your bridesmaids' looks while keeping them comfortable.

Plan, research and consult

Planning, researching, and consulting are key to choosing the right bridesmaid shoes. Here are some tips to help you with this process:

Plan

Start by setting a budget for the shoes. Discuss with your bridesmaids how much they are comfortable spending, as they will likely be purchasing their own footwear. Keep in mind that they may have already invested a significant amount in their outfits and other accessories. If you are in a position to do so, you could offer to buy the shoes for your bridesmaids as a generous gesture.

Next, consider the style of shoes that would work best with the dresses and the venue. If your bridesmaids are wearing floor-length gowns, their shoes don't need to be too fancy or expensive, as they will likely be hidden. In this case, comfortable and casual shoes like neutral ballet flats, sandals, or even sneakers could be a good option. On the other hand, if your bridesmaids are wearing short dresses, you may want to give them more specific guidelines to ensure a cohesive look.

Think about the venue and wedding date as well. For example, stilettos are more suitable for a ballroom setting, while a beach or grassy venue calls for flat shoes or wedges. Closed-toe shoes are generally better for cool weather, while open-toe shoes are more common for warmer climates.

Research

Do your research on the different types of shoes available. There are endless options to choose from, including open-toe, sparkly, metallic, modern, or classic styles. Visit wedding shows, browse online, and look for specialist bridesmaid ranges by famous brands. You can also consider budget options or silver and gold evening shoe collections, which are ideal for bridesmaids to wear again after the wedding.

Consult

Consult with your bridesmaids to find out their preferences and get their input. Keep in mind that your bridesmaids have different tastes, sizes, and ages, so finding a style that suits everyone can be challenging. Try to involve them in the decision-making process and be open to their suggestions.

Organize a try-on session with all your bridesmaids together, if possible. This will help you understand which shoes fit them best and how different brands, sizing, and styles work for each person. It will also be a fun and interactive way to narrow down your options and make a decision.

Remember, comfort is key when it comes to choosing bridesmaid shoes. Your bridesmaids will be on their feet all day, so make sure to choose shoes that are not only stylish but also comfortable and practical.

Frequently asked questions