Deborah Chan
When it comes to wedding attire, the dress often takes centre stage, but what about the shoes? It's important to choose wisely, as you'll likely be wearing them for most of the day. Whether you opt for heels or flats, there are many styles to choose from, and you can even add your own personal touch with some DIY stone embellishments. In this discussion, we'll explore the various factors to consider when selecting your dream wedding shoes, from comfort and style to heel height and venue demands. We'll also delve into the age-old question of whether to tailor your dress for heels or flats and offer tips on how to stone your heels for that extra sparkle on your special day.
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What You'll Learn
Stoning heels with rhinestones
Gather Your Supplies:
First, you will need to gather all the necessary supplies. This includes the heels you want to stone, rhinestones in your desired colour and size, glue (such as E6000 glue), a syringe, a wax pen or a rhinestone picker, and a rhinestone tray. You can purchase rhinestones from various online sellers or craft stores. Amazon offers a wide selection, great prices, and an easy return process if you are not satisfied with your choice.
Design Your Pattern:
Before you begin gluing, it is essential to plan the design and pattern of the rhinestones on your heels. You can lay out the rhinestones on the heels to get an idea or take a photo of the shoes and use an app to "draw" the rhinestones on and create a pattern. Start by determining the centre of your design and placing one large rhinestone, then work outwards with smaller stones. You can make the pattern as simple or complex as you like.
Gluing the Rhinestones:
Fill your syringe halfway with glue and attach the tip. Squeeze a small drop of glue onto the desired spot on the heel. Use the wax end of the rhinestone picker or the wax pen to grab a face-up rhinestone from the tray and place it onto the glue. Make sure to press the stone firmly into the glue. You can adjust the placement if needed with the opposite end of the rhinestone picker. Continue this process until you have completed your desired pattern.
Drying and Setting:
Once you have finished applying the rhinestones, allow the glue to dry overnight. The E6000 glue will ensure that the stones stay on securely, but it does take time to dry fully. If you want a quicker option, you can use hotfix stones, which are cheaper but may not hold up as well over time.
With these steps, you can create stunning stoned heels to complement your wedding dress. Enjoy the process of designing and crafting your dream shoes!
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Choosing the right heel height
It's also important to consider the height of your partner. Some brides may not want to appear taller than their partner, so this could influence your decision. You might also want to consider the height of heels you usually wear. Selecting a height that you are used to is a good idea, but if you want to branch out, just be sure to break your new heels in before the big day. This will help you get used to the height and prevent any tripping or stumbling.
The style of your wedding dress can also be a factor in choosing your heel height. The length of your dress will need to be altered based on the height of your shoes, so it's important to decide on your heel height before getting your dress hemmed. You might also want to consider the style of shoe that will complement your dress. For a formal wedding, closed-toe heels can be a timeless choice, while open-toe shoes can also be a stylish option.
Finally, don't forget to consider your budget when choosing your heel height. Wedding shoes can be expensive, so it's important to plan accordingly. Shopping around for different brands and styles can help you find the perfect pair of heels that fit your budget and your comfort level. It's also a good idea to have a backup pair of shoes in case your heels become uncomfortable during the reception.
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Hemming the wedding dress
Selecting the Right Shoes
Before hemming your wedding dress, it is essential to choose the shoes you will wear on the day. This decision is crucial as the length of your dress will be adjusted according to your heel height to ensure it sits just above the floor. It is recommended to bring your wedding shoes to your dress fitting so that the seamstress can accurately determine the required length.
Professional vs. DIY Hemming
While it is possible to hem a wedding dress yourself, it is highly recommended to seek the services of a professional seamstress, especially if your dress has intricate details such as lace or multiple layers. Hemming a wedding dress can be complex, and a slight mistake can significantly impact the overall look of the gown. Professionals have the expertise to handle various fabrics and layers, ensuring your dress is altered flawlessly.
The Hemming Process
The hemming process typically involves the seamstress first pinning the hem with your shoes on. They will adjust the length so that the dress grazes the floor without entering the 'trip-zone'. You can then switch to your flats to see the difference in length and decide if you are comfortable with the shorter length. If not, the seamstress can measure the hem with your heels on and discuss options for bustling the dress, which involves lifting the front to avoid dragging.
Cost Considerations
The cost of hemming a wedding dress can vary depending on factors such as the number of layers, fabric type, and complexity of alterations. It is recommended to shop around for prices, as costs can range from $25 to $200 or more for professional services. However, it is crucial to prioritize quality over cost, as a poorly hemmed dress can be challenging to rectify.
Timing
Finally, ensure you allow sufficient time for the hemming process. Wedding dresses often require multiple fittings and alterations, so starting the process early will help ensure your gown is ready in time for your special day.
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Comfort vs style
Comfort and style are two important considerations when choosing wedding heels. While some brides prioritise style and opt for heels, others choose flats for comfort. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what the bride feels most confident and comfortable in.
For those who want the height of heels without compromising on comfort, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, wedges or block heels can provide more stability and comfort than narrow heels. Additionally, choosing heels with extra cushioning, memory foam insoles, or padded footbeds can make a significant difference in comfort. Opting for premium materials like supple leather or soft satin can also enhance comfort.
If you have your heart set on a particular style of heel, there are ways to make them more comfortable. Look for heels with adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit, and consider adding gel inserts or heel cushions to provide extra padding and reduce pressure on the balls of your feet.
On the other hand, flats can be a stylish and comfortable option for brides who want to be comfortable on their feet all day. From elegant ballet flats to embellished sandals, there are numerous options that combine comfort and style. If you plan to wear flats for the reception, consider having your dress hemmed to accommodate the height difference, or choose a style that can be easily bustled or pinned up.
Ultimately, the decision between comfort and style is a personal one. It's important to try on different options and choose what feels best for you. With a little creativity and customisation, you can have wedding heels that make a statement and keep you comfortable as you walk down the aisle.
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Stoned heel maintenance
Stoned heels can be a beautiful addition to a wedding dress, and their maintenance is crucial to ensure they remain in good condition. Here are some detailed tips for maintaining your stoned heels:
Cleaning and Exfoliation:
Start by cleaning your heels gently with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust. To exfoliate, soak your feet in lukewarm water for about 20 minutes to soften the skin. Gently scrub your feet with a pumice stone or foot file, focusing on the stoned areas to remove any dead skin and prevent the buildup of dirt around the stones.
Moisturization:
After exfoliating, it's essential to moisturize your heels to keep them hydrated and supple. Choose a moisturizer that contains both occlusive and humectant agents, as these are particularly effective for cracked heels. Apply the moisturizer generously to the stoned areas and massage it into the skin.
Protection:
To protect your stoned heels, consider adopting a sock habit more often. Socks add an extra layer of protection between your skin and the stones, reducing potential damage to the skin. Cotton socks are particularly recommended, especially after moisturizing, as they help trap the moisture, preventing it from rubbing off and keeping your heels hydrated.
Adhesive Maintenance:
If any stones become loose, use a suitable adhesive to reattach them securely. Ensure you follow the instructions for the adhesive, allowing adequate drying time.
Storage:
When storing your stoned heels, keep them in a cool, dry place, and avoid stacking shoes directly on top of each other, as this can cause the stones to become dislodged or damaged. Consider storing them in a box or dust bag to protect them from dust and maintain their condition.
By following these maintenance steps, your stoned heels will retain their beauty and elegance, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable on your special day and beyond.
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Frequently asked questions
The type of heels you should wear with your wedding dress depends on the venue and schedule of your wedding. For example, if your wedding is outdoors, it is ideal to wear a wedge, flat, or low block heel. If you are walking on grass, gravel, or hardwood, a wedge, block heel, or flat is better. If your wedding is on tile or wood flooring, you can wear a slimmer heel.
Whether you wear heels or flats with your wedding dress is a matter of personal preference. Flats are a good option if you want to be comfortable, but heels can help you have better posture. Most people (84%) prefer heels, but there are many cute flat options as well.
To stone heels for your wedding dress, start with a regular pair of heels and buy gems with an adhesive backing. Start at the center with one large rhinestone and then work your way out with smaller stones. Once you have your set design, start gluing.
It is better to tailor your wedding dress to your heels. If you tailor your dress to your flats, it may be too short when you wear heels. However, if you tailor your dress to your heels, it will be too long when you switch to flats.
Some comfortable wedding shoe options include the Mila Dress Shoe, which has a sturdy 1.75-inch block heel, and Bow Knot Heels, which have a 2.36-inch block heel and an adjustable ankle strap.
