Heels For Your Wedding: Choosing The Perfect Pair

what heels to wear with wedding dress

Choosing the right pair of heels to wear with your wedding dress is an important decision. The right pair should complement your dress and elevate your look on your special day. When selecting your heels, consider the height of your gown, the fabric and style of your dress, and your own comfort. If you're wearing a short wedding dress, for example, a taller pair of heels can elongate your legs and create a sleek profile. For a flowy, boho wedding dress, retro-style shoes or a pair with a high platform and block heel can capture a 1970s feel. Comfort is also key, especially if you plan on dancing the night away. You may want to bring a backup pair of flats or lower heels to change into during the reception. Ultimately, the heels you choose should reflect your personal style and make you feel confident and happy on your wedding day.

Characteristics Values
Height of heels Depends on the height of the gown and personal preference. Taller heels are recommended for shorter dresses.
Comfort Kitten heels or flats are recommended for those who are not used to high heels.
Adornments Jewels and other adornments should not catch the hemline of the dress.
Colour White, nude, champagne, ivory, light blue, or a vibrant hue to add a personalised touch.
Season Closed-toe shoes are recommended for winter weddings, while sandals are recommended for summer weddings.
Dress fabric For structured fabrics, choose shoes with minimal patterns or embellishments. For lightweight and ethereal fabrics, choose light and airy shoes like open-toe or mesh styles.
Style Retro-style shoes pair well with flowy, boho dresses.

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Heel height: Choose according to your dress length and comfort level

When choosing the heel height for your wedding shoes, there are two main considerations: the length of your dress and your comfort level.

If you're wearing a short wedding dress, selecting a taller pair of heels can elongate your legs and help you achieve a sleek profile. Conversely, if you're wearing a long dress that will cover your shoes, you may prioritise comfort over height. Kitten heels or even ballerina flats can be a good option if you're not used to wearing high heels. If you have a flowy, boho wedding dress, a pair of heels with a high platform and block heel can create a 1970s feel that pairs well with bell sleeves.

For outdoor weddings, block heels can be a good choice as they provide more stability on uneven ground. If you're set on wearing high heels, consider bringing a second pair of flats or lower heels to change into during the reception so you can dance comfortably. It's also important to break in your wedding shoes before the big day to avoid any discomfort or blisters.

Ultimately, the heel height you choose should be based on what makes you feel confident and happy. If you want your dress to be altered to the perfect length, bring your chosen shoes to your dress fitting so the tailor can ensure the hem complements your shoes.

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Fabric and style: Select heels that complement your dress's fabric, style, and overall look

When it comes to choosing the perfect heels to complement your wedding dress, fabric and style are key considerations. Here are some tips to help you select heels that enhance your overall look:

Fabric

The fabric of your wedding dress plays a significant role in choosing the right heels. If your dress is made of structured and crisp fabric, opt for structured heels like block heels or pointed-toe pumps. These styles complement the crisp lines and bold refinement of structured gowns. Satin ribbons and open-toe designs can add a touch of gracefulness to structured silhouettes.

For luxurious, smooth fabrics, avoid casual footwear like flip-flops or sneakers, as they detract from the refined aesthetic. Instead, opt for complementary textures like lace or tulle. If your dress is crafted from satin or crepe fabric, consider clean pumps, open-toe styles, or soft lace heels.

Lace heels can be an elegant choice, especially if your dress features romantic floral detailing. Satin heels, on the other hand, offer a subtle shine and a contemporary finish. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a vibrant hue for your heels to add a personalised touch to your bridal ensemble.

Style

The style of your wedding dress is another crucial factor in choosing the right heels. If you're wearing a short wedding dress, taller heels can elongate your legs and create a sleek profile. On the other hand, if you're more comfortable with lower heels or flats, those are also a great option. Kitten heels or ballerina flats can provide comfort and elegance.

For a flowy, boho wedding dress, retro-style shoes can be a perfect match. Consider a pair with a high platform and block heel for a 1970s vibe that pairs well with bell sleeves. If your dress has a large slit, a wide heel might provide more comfort without compromising the look.

If your wedding dress is floor-length, your heels will not be very visible, so you might prioritise comfort over style. On the other hand, if your dress is ankle-length, tea-length, or shorter, your shoes will be on prominent display, so you may want to opt for a statement shoe.

Ultimately, the most important factor is choosing heels that make you feel confident and happy. Whether you opt for sky-high heels or practical flats, ensure they complement your dress and reflect your personal style.

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Colour: Opt for traditional shades or make a statement with a bold hue

When it comes to choosing the colour of your wedding heels, you can go for traditional shades or make a statement with a bold colour. The classic bridal heel is traditionally white, but other neutral shades like nude, champagne, ivory, and even light blue can complement a wedding dress beautifully. These neutral shades are subtle and elegant, providing a contemporary finish to your overall bridal look.

If you want to add a unique detail to your wedding outfit, you could opt for a vibrant hue. A bold colour choice can showcase your artistic side and add a personalised finishing touch to your ensemble. For instance, you could choose a shade that matches your wedding's colour theme, creating a picture-perfect opportunity. Alternatively, you could go for sparkly shoes, adding a glamorous touch to your special day.

If you're wearing a short wedding dress, a taller pair of heels can elongate your legs and create a sleek silhouette. On the other hand, if you're more comfortable with lower heels, kitten heels or even flats can be a great option, especially if you're not used to wearing high heels. Prioritising comfort is essential, as you'll want to be able to dance and move around with ease throughout your wedding day.

Ultimately, the colour of your wedding heels is a personal choice that can reflect your style and personality. Whether you decide to go for a traditional shade or a bold statement colour, ensure that your heels complement the style and fabric of your wedding dress to create a cohesive and elegant look.

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Seasonality: Consider closed-toe shoes for winter and breathable sandals for summer

When choosing the perfect heels to pair with your wedding dress, it's important to consider the season of your wedding. Opting for closed-toe shoes can be a stylish and practical choice for winter weddings, while breathable sandals are ideal for summer celebrations.

For winter weddings, closed-toe shoes can provide extra warmth and prevent discomfort, especially when arriving at the venue. If you're worried about the cold, opt for a pair of closed-toe shoes in a luxurious fabric such as lace, ivory silk, or satin. These classic styles will elegantly complement your bridal look while keeping your feet cosy. You can also find closed-toe shoes with cute details, such as an ankle strap or pretty bows, adding a unique touch to your ensemble.

If your wedding falls during the colder months, but you have your heart set on an open-toe style, there are ways to make it work. Some brides choose to wear open-toe shoes with a limited view of the toes, such as peep-toe designs, which can be a stylish compromise. Additionally, if your wedding is entirely indoors, you may feel more comfortable opting for open-toe shoes, as you won't be exposed to the outdoor chill.

On the other hand, summer weddings call for breathable footwear to keep you comfortable and cool. Sandals are an excellent choice, offering enhanced breathability and a lightweight feel. You can find sandals in various styles, from flat to high heels, ensuring you can find a pair that suits your comfort level and personal style. Some sandals even feature elegant details such as rhinestones or glittered accents, adding a touch of sparkle to your summer wedding look.

Ultimately, whether you choose closed-toe shoes or sandals for your wedding, ensuring your comfort is essential. Opt for a pair that complements your wedding dress and suits the season, and you'll be ready to walk down the aisle in style.

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Functionality: Prioritise comfort and practicality, especially for outdoor weddings

When it comes to choosing the right heels for your wedding, comfort and practicality are key, especially if your wedding is outdoors. You'll want to be able to walk down the aisle and dance the night away without any discomfort or restrictions.

To ensure comfort, it's a good idea to opt for lower heels or even flats. Kitten heels or ballerina flats can be a stylish and comfortable choice, especially if you're not used to wearing high heels. If you have a short wedding dress, a taller pair of heels can help elongate your legs and create a sleek silhouette. However, if you're set on wearing high heels, consider bringing a pair of flats to change into after the ceremony so you can dance comfortably. Additionally, closed-toe shoes are ideal for winter weddings to keep your feet warm, while sandals can be a great choice for summer weddings to enhance breathability.

For outdoor weddings, the type of heel you choose is particularly important. Stilettos, for example, may sink into soft ground, such as grass or sand. Block heels, on the other hand, provide more stability and are less likely to sink into soft surfaces. Chunky heels or block heels can be a stylish and practical choice for outdoor weddings, ensuring you can walk with ease and confidence. Mules and mid-heel options are also available in various colours, so you can find the perfect pair to match your wedding dress and theme.

If you're looking for both comfort and style, embellished sandals or closed-toe satin flats can be a great option. You can add a romantic touch with clipped-on bows or choose a pair with whimsical pearl flower embellishments. For a unique twist, consider a pair of colourful heels that complement your wedding dress and showcase your artistic side.

Remember, it's essential to consider the surfaces you'll be walking on and the overall practicality of your shoes. By choosing comfortable and practical heels, you can ensure that you'll be able to fully enjoy your special day without any restrictions or discomfort.

Frequently asked questions

For brides who want to make a statement, colourful heels are a great option. You can choose a vibrant hue that captures your artistic side or select a shade that matches your wedding theme. Another option is to add some sparkle with crystal-embellished heels or satin shoes with a bow. If you're wearing a short wedding dress, a taller pair of heels can elongate your legs and create a sleek profile.

Retro-style shoes with a 1970s feel can pair well with a flowy, boho wedding dress. Consider a pair of high platforms or block heels, which will complement the bell sleeves often found in these gowns.

Comfort is crucial, especially if you plan on dancing the night away. Kitten heels or flats are a good choice if you're not used to wearing high heels. You could also opt for block heels, which offer more stability and comfort. If you have your heart set on a particular style of shoe, consider buying two pairs of shoes in different styles or heights, so you can switch to a more comfortable option later in the day.

When wearing structured or luxurious fabrics, avoid shoes with heavy rhinestones, large bows, or clashing textures that might compete with the sleekness of your gown. If your wedding dress has a lot of volume or structure, keep your shoes minimal to avoid overwhelming the look. Additionally, if you're having an outdoor or beach wedding, heels may not be the most practical option.

While it's not necessary to decide on your wedding shoes before your dress appointment, it's helpful to have a clear vision of the style you want. This ensures that your dress and shoes work well together and can save you from additional alterations. If you already have your dream shoes, bring them to your dress appointments so you can choose a gown that complements them.

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