Choosing Wedding Shoes: A Guide To Comfort And Style

how to pick wedding shoes

Picking the perfect pair of wedding shoes is a challenging task. There are several factors to consider, such as the style, colour, heel height, and comfort of the shoe. The shoe should complement the wedding dress in terms of colour, style, and embellishments. It is also important to consider the location and venue of the wedding, as this will influence the heel height and style of the shoe. For example, high heels may not be suitable for a beach wedding or a slippery dance floor. It is recommended to start researching and browsing for wedding shoe styles and trends well in advance to find the perfect pair that complements the dress and suits the bride's comfort and style preferences.

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Comfort and heel height

Comfort is a key consideration when choosing your wedding shoes. You will be on your feet all day, walking, standing, and dancing, so it's important to select a pair of shoes that you can wear comfortably for an extended period. If you're not used to wearing high heels, your wedding day is not the time to start. Opt for a lower heel, a kitten heel, or even a flat shoe. If you're determined to wear heels, choose a pair with support and cushioning, and make sure you break them in before the big day.

The heel height you choose may also depend on the length of your dress. If your dress is floor-length, your shoes will only be visible when you're walking, but if you're wearing a shorter dress, your shoes will be on show, so you may want to choose a style that makes more of a statement. If you have a tea-length gown, your shoes will get a lot more attention than if you're wearing a floor-grazing dress with a long train. If you're wearing a short wedding dress, a taller pair of shoes will elongate your legs and help you achieve a sleek profile.

The location of your wedding is another important factor to consider when choosing your heel height. Stilettos are not a good choice for an outdoor wedding, especially if the ground is soft or uneven. If you're getting married on a beach, you may struggle to walk gracefully through the sand in high heels, and they're unlikely to fare well if you're walking on grass or gravel. If you're determined to wear heels, consider a block heel, which will provide more support. If you're getting married in a church, heels are a great choice for walking down the aisle, but if your venue has a lot of stairs or a slippery dance floor, you might want to reconsider.

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Venue and location

When choosing your wedding shoes, it is important to consider the venue and location. If you are having an outdoor wedding, flat shoes or low-heeled bridal sandals are a good option. Flat shoes are also a good choice for a beach wedding, as heels may sink into the sand. For a beach wedding, you could also consider wearing cute rubber rain boots under your dress for outdoor photos, or winter boots if it snows. If your wedding is at a hotel or another indoor venue, you might prefer to wear heels, although you may want to avoid very high heels if the venue has a slippery dance floor.

The type of venue you choose may also influence the style of your shoes. For example, if you are getting married in a church, you might want to wear heels for walking down the aisle. If your venue has gravel pathways, stairs, or uneven terrain, flat shoes or a very low heel are more suitable than wedges or tall heels. A wedding bootie, which is a mix between a heel and a flat, can offer more flexibility for different locations.

The weather at your venue is another factor to consider when choosing your wedding shoes. If it is going to be cold, you might want to opt for a stylish pair of boots, whereas if it is hot, you might prefer sandals or open-toed shoes.

It is important to consider the comfort and practicality of your wedding shoes, especially if you plan to wear them for a long time. You may want to break in your shoes before the wedding and have a backup pair in case you need to change into something more comfortable.

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Style and colour

When it comes to the style of your wedding shoes, it is important to consider the style and formality of your dress first and foremost. The length and cut of your dress will determine how much of your shoes will be visible and what type of shoe (and heel height) you should wear. For example, if you are wearing a tea-length gown, your shoes will be more attention-grabbing than if you were wearing a floor-length dress with a long train.

If you are wearing a princess gown or a long train, the full skirt on your dress will likely obscure your shoes. In this case, you may want to opt for a delicate, strappy sandal with a high, dainty heel. Alternatively, you may want to make a statement with your shoes. In this case, you could opt for a bright colour or a bold style.

If you are wearing a dress with many colours, choose a shoe in one of those colours. You could also opt for a nude-coloured shoe, which might work perfectly for a Chai-lined gown. If you are wearing a traditional white dress, you could add a touch of colour to express your personal style. From green to blue to pink, there are many options to choose from.

It is also important to consider the location and venue of your wedding when choosing your shoe style. For example, high heels may not be the best choice for a beach wedding or a slippery dance floor. If you are having a winter wedding, you may want to opt for a stylish pair of boots. You should also consider the weather and have a backup pair of shoes in case of rain or snow.

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Season and weather

When it comes to choosing wedding shoes, it's important to consider the season and weather conditions of your wedding day. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect footwear for your special day:

For a summer wedding, consider opting for sandals or open-toed shoes to enhance breathability, especially if your wedding is outdoors or in a warm climate. Delicate strappy sandals or espadrilles can be a great choice for a beach wedding, making it easier to navigate sandy settings while still looking stylish. If you're having an outdoor wedding, slingback flats or low-heeled bridal sandals can also be a comfortable and practical option.

In contrast, for a winter wedding, closed-toe shoes are ideal to keep your feet warm and comfortable. Consider elegant court shoes or vintage-inspired block heels, which can complement your gown while providing coverage from the cold. Furry winter boots can also be a fun and functional choice, especially if you're braving snow on your big day.

Always have a backup pair of shoes for inclement weather. If you're worried about wet grass, mud, or puddles, cute rubber rain boots can be a saviour during outdoor portions of your wedding. For indoor weddings, a pair of bridal pumps or flats can be easily slipped on if you need to step outside or want to change into something more comfortable for dancing.

It's important to start shopping for your wedding shoes early, especially if you're considering seasonal options. This will give you ample time to try on different styles and ensure that your footwear complements your dress and suits the weather conditions of your wedding day.

Remember, your wedding shoes should not only look stunning but also provide comfort, as you'll be wearing them for many hours. So, take the time to find the perfect pair that checks all the boxes for style, comfort, and practicality, considering the season and weather conditions of your special day.

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Shopping and trying on

Shopping for wedding shoes can be a challenging task, but with careful consideration, you can find the perfect pair that complements your wedding dress and suits your comfort preferences. Here are some tips for shopping and trying on wedding shoes:

Start with Your Wedding Dress:

Before you begin shopping for wedding shoes, it is recommended to have your wedding dress selected or at least have a clear idea of its style, length, and colour. This is important because your shoes should complement your dress and the overall style of your wedding. Consider the length and cut of your dress, as this will determine how much of your shoes will be visible and, consequently, the type of shoe and heel height you should choose.

Research and Browse:

Start researching and browsing for wedding shoe styles and trends well in advance. This will give you ample time to explore different options and make an informed decision. Consider factors such as heel height, comfort, and style. Determine your budget for wedding shoes before you begin browsing to narrow down your options effectively.

Try-On and Comfort:

When trying on wedding shoes, it is essential to consider your comfort. The perfect shoes should reflect your style and enhance your overall bridal look, but they should also be comfortable. Choose shoes that provide support and cushioning and fit well. If you plan to wear heels, ensure you can walk comfortably in them, and consider the terrain and venue of your wedding. For outdoor weddings, avoid delicate shoes that may not withstand grass, sand, or other terrains.

Plan B and Backup Shoes:

Always have a Plan B in case of inclement weather. Cute rubber rain boots or furry winter boots can be a fun addition to your wedding attire and ensure your comfort. Additionally, consider bringing a pair of backup shoes for the reception, dancing, and greeting guests. This way, you can switch to a more comfortable option if needed without compromising your style.

In-Person Try-On:

While it is fine to browse for style inspiration online, it is recommended to try on shoes in person to ensure the perfect fit. If you plan to purchase shoes online, take advantage of free delivery and returns policies to order several options and try them on at home with your wedding dress. This will help you make a well-informed decision and ensure that your shoes complement your entire bridal look.

Break-In Your Shoes:

Once you have found your dream wedding shoes, remember to wear them around the house to break them in and prevent discomfort on your big day. This is an important step, even if your shoes feel comfortable right out of the box.

Frequently asked questions

The style of your wedding shoe should complement the style and formality of your dress. The length and cut of your dress will determine how much of your shoes will be visible and what type of shoe (and heel height) you should wear. If you're wearing a short wedding dress, a taller pair of shoes can help elongate your legs. If you're wearing a floor-length dress, you might want to consider a flat shoe for comfort.

This decision should be based on comfort and overall style. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for cooler climates and black-tie weddings, while open-toe shoes are more common for warmer wedding days.

This is a matter of personal preference. If you're comfortable in heels, you can opt for a pair of heeled shoes. If not, there are many comfortable flat bridal shoes available. You could also consider having a pair of ""photo shoes" and "real shoes" so you can have comfortable feet and great photos.

No, it's recommended that you buy your wedding dress first so that you can choose shoes that complement your dress.

You should consider the location and venue of your wedding. For example, high heels might not be the best choice for a beach wedding or a venue with a slippery dance floor. You should also consider the weather and have a backup pair of shoes in case of rain or snow.

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