Brides often ask us, “What kind of wedding shoes should I wear?” It’s a great question—because your wedding shoes are more than just a detail. They complete your bridal look, impact your comfort level all day long, and reflect your personal style. Whether you’re saying “I do” in a grand ballroom, on a sandy beach, or in your own backyard, the right pair of shoes will make all the difference.
How to Choose the Best Wedding Shoes
When shopping for wedding shoes for the bride, there’s a lot to consider. From heel height to material, venue to season, we’re breaking down everything you need to know so you can walk (and dance!) confidently down the aisle.
1. Consider Your Wedding Venue
Your venue sets the tone for the type of footwear that makes sense. Are you getting married outdoors? On grass or sand, flat bridal sandals, wedges, or block heels are often better than stilettos. For ballroom or church weddings, classic heels or embellished pumps are a perfect match.
- Beach wedding: Barefoot sandals, flats, or espadrilles
- Garden or outdoor ceremony: Block heels or wedges
- Indoor or formal venue: Stiletto heels, satin pumps, or elegant kitten heels
Editor’s Note: With summer around the corner, you’ll get a lot of use from these white espadrille wedges by Lulus! They’re great to pair with bridal shower dresses, too!
Love a platform heel? These crinkle bow-topped shoes are a perfect choice and will make you feel like a princess! By Lulus.
2. Prioritize Comfort
You’ll be on your feet—walking, standing, and dancing—for hours. Check out our guide on comfortable bridal flats to give you advice on finding shoes with padded insoles, quality arch support, and breathable materials. Don’t forget to break them in before the big day!
3. Match Your Dress (But Don’t Be Afraid to Stand Out)
Your wedding shoes don’t need to match your dress perfectly, but they should complement it. Ivory or white satin heels are timeless, while metallics like gold or rose gold add a modern touch. Love color? A bold pair of blue heels (hello, “something blue“) adds personality and style.
Pro Tip: If your dress is long, the shoes will peek out—so feel free to go bold with texture, sparkle, or color!
4. Think About Heel Height
Choose a heel height you’re comfortable walking in. If you’re not used to wearing heels, this is not the day to test out 4-inch stilettos. Kitten heels or ballet flats are just as chic and way more manageable for many brides.
Popular Bridal Shoe Heights:
- Flats: Great for comfort and ideal for outdoor venues
- Low heels (1-2 inches): Elegant and easy to walk in
- Medium heels (2-3 inches): A classic choice for most brides
- High heels (3+ inches): Glamorous, but less forgiving on your feet
EDITOR’S NOTE: These flats are my go-to for brides! SOOO comfy! By Kaileep.
5. Match the Season
If you’re having a winter wedding, consider closed-toe shoes or even bridal booties to keep your feet warm. Summer brides can opt for strappy heels, sandals, or even barefoot options for beach ceremonies.
Top Picks: Best Wedding Shoes for the Bride
Here are some trending and timeless bridal shoe styles we love right now:
- Embellished Block Heels: Stylish, stable, and perfect for dancing
- Lace-Up Sandals: Great for boho brides and outdoor weddings
- Classic Satin Pumps: Elegant and match nearly any dress
- Bridal Sneakers: Yes, really! Comfy and super cute for the reception
- Something Blue Heels: A stylish twist on tradition
Pro Tip: Wear custom Air Force 1 Bridal Sneakers, made for you by the amazing designer, Pinky Promise Accessories!
FAQs: What Kind of Wedding Shoes Should I Wear?
Should I wear heels or flats to my wedding?
It depends on your comfort level and venue. Heels can elongate your silhouette, but flats are a fabulous choice if you want to avoid sore feet. Many brides wear heels for the ceremony and switch to flats for the reception.
When should I buy my wedding shoes?
Buy your bridal shoes before your first dress fitting. This ensures your hemline is tailored to the correct height, especially if you’re wearing heels.
Can I wear colored wedding shoes?
Absolutely! Colored shoes are a fun way to express your personality. Think blush, metallics, or even deep jewel tones for fall and winter weddings.
PRO TIP: These metallic silver heels are perfect for the bride-to-be! They’re from Pinky Promise Accessories.
Final Thoughts: Pick the Pair That Feels Right for You
At the end of the day, the best wedding shoes for the bride are the ones that make you feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable. I hope this post helps you to answer the age-old question, “What kind of wedding shoes should I wear?” Remember, you should always choose a pair that reflects your style and supports you (literally!) through one of the most magical days of your life.
Now that you know what kind of wedding shoes you should wear, explore our Best Comfortable Wedding Shoes for Brides for hand-picked favorites that brides are loving this season. 💍
► Browse our latest bridal shoe collection and find your perfect pair today!
