Once ignored as unimportant, bridal shoes are now the biggest accessory for brides to be. Whether you opt to match your shoes to your dress or incorporate a pop of color, your wedding shoes are a great way to let your personality shine through and create a cohesive look that’s equal parts timeless and gorgeous.
In this guide, we’re highlighting some of the best bridal shoes for a range of styles. Read on for style inspo and then keep reading for tips to find the perfect pair of shoes, and how to make them wedding day ready.
Bridal Shoe Guide: Contents
- 40 Best Wedding Shoes to Buy
- Whites | Nudes | Metallics | Something Blue | Platforms | Kitten Heels | Flats | Glam
- How to Choose the Perfect Bridal Shoes to Match Your Dress
40 Best Wedding Shoes to Buy, from Heels to Flats
From classic whites and futuristic metallics to something blue, find the cutest wedding shoes for any style and personality below!
White Bridal Shoes
1. Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Pump
Wedding days are marathons. So, when you know that you’re going to be wearing wedding shoes for as much as 12 hours, you want a heel that you can control! This Manolo Blahnik pump is the perfect combination of comfort and beauty. We love that the white satin body is contrasted with the perfect “something blue” with the blue crystal buckle. And with a modest three and a half-inch heel, you’ll get the right amount of height without feeling like you’re walking on the balls of your feet. Shop now at Nordstrom!
2. Christian Louboutin Loubi Bee Sandals
Nothing makes a statement better than letting your wedding guests catch a sneak peek of those coveted red bottoms as you walk down the aisle. The Loubi Bee leather sandals from Christian Louboutin are the perfect way to incorporate this cult-favorite brand without sacrificing your feet at the altar of fashion. The three and a half-inch tall wide block wedding heels are perfect for giving you that added stability – especially if you struggle to wear some of this brand’s more iconic stiletto heels. Buy them at My Theresa!
3. Maryam Nassir Zadeh Aurora Sandals
We’re obsessed with the dainty chain work on these adorable kitten heels. If you’re leery of wearing a higher pair of wedding heels on your wedding day, these cute open-toed shoes are slightly shorter at just three inches. But we’re loving the soft chains at the ankles and across the upper that help to create a bit of visual contrast from the minimal toe straps. Buy it at Forward!
4. Jimmy Choo Esther Pump
Who says you can’t shake things up with a white pair of wedding heels? If you like the idea of a white shoe for your wedding but want something a little different, these Jimmy Choo Esther leather pumps will do the trick. What makes them unique? They feature a crocodile-style texture that will give these beautiful pumps plenty of mileage long after your wedding day is over. Shop at Farfetch!
5. Badgley Mischka Clara Sandals
Open-toe heel sandals are a staple in the bridal world because they’re versatile and are perfect for the bride, her bridesmaids, and all the other wedding guests. For those that prefer block wedding heels over stilettos, Badgley Mischka’s Clara sandal is the perfect solution. You get plenty of drama on the front strap thanks to all of the pearl and crystal beading. But you also get a truly wearable shoe thanks to the three-inch block heel. Buy it at Nordstrom!
Nude Bridal Shoes
6. Alias Mae Aubrey Sandals
If you’re wearing a body-hugging dress complete with strategic illusion lace (think Berta or Julie Vino), you’re going to want a more dramatic pair of wedding shoes that complements that look rather than clashing. These strappy heeled sandals are just the answer you’re looking for. While these feature a serious 4.25-inch heel, we’re in love with the longer ankle straps that can be tied low around the ankle or even slightly higher. We’d recommend you tie them higher so that if you’re wearing a sheath silhouette with a sky-high slit, guests will get a peek at these pretty bridal shoes. Shop them at Revolve!
7. Aquazzura Deneuve Pumps
Just like dresses, wedding shoes come in so many styles – especially when you’re picking the shoes for your wedding day. What’s not to love about these Aquazzura nude pumps! Along with their soft velvety goat suede texture, we’re in love with the bow accent at the back of the heel. Because of that, we recommend you wear these heels with a shorter dress so that guests (and your beau) will have plenty of opportunities to catch glimpses of that bow detail and the adorable pineapple accents on the soles. Shop them at Shopbop!
8. Badgley Mischka Quintana Embellished Pumps
Badgley Mischka is a fan favorite for bridal footwear because let’s face it, they’re so darn cute, and these wedding shoes look amazing. And they look especially amazing when the crystals catch the light from your reception or your photographer’s camera flash. If you’re looking for big drama with a somewhat classic style, Badgley Mischka’s Quintana pump is the perfect place to stop your search. While it’s more champagne than nude, we think that the bold crystal ornamentation at the toe that’s carried throughout the shoe makes this the perfect option for any bride and any style of dress. Get them at Nordstrom!
9. Jaggar Aura Sandals
If you prefer tie-style wedding sandals, then you should keep this Jaggar style in mind. This beautiful suede shoe is paired with sheer tulle sashes that can be wrapped in a variety of ways around your ankle to keep the shoe securely in place. This four-inch heel might be one of the taller options but is again perfect for the flirty bride who wants their footwear to be the main component of their wedding day look. For the best effect, pair these nude wedding shoes with a dress featuring a shorter hem. Shop them at Revolve!
10. Aquazzura Mae Pearl-Embellished Sandals
Pearls and weddings go so perfectly together, it’s no surprise that they’re one of the most common embellishments on dresses, jewelry, accessories, and of course, wedding shoes. These Aquazzura sandals are the perfect complement if you want to incorporate pearls into your wedding. While this sandal does have a thinner heel, it is relatively low at only three inches. Consider making these your bridal party shoes for a cohesive theme that you can show off in your wedding photos! Shop them at Moda Operandi!
Metallic Bridal Shoes
11. Aquazzura Dream Sandals
There’s nothing wrong with a little bling to solidify your wedding day look. The Aquazzura Dream sandal is a 105mm stiletto (4.25 inches) that will turn heads. We’re loving the see-through effect, and the larger rhinestone accents along the length of the sole, as well as the toe and ankle straps. Find them at Shopbop!
12. Saint Laurent Zoe Glitter Heels
Glitter is so magical, it deserves to be the perfect accessory for any bridal style. These Saint Laurent glitter wedding heels pair a bold warm-toned golden heel with a cool-toned golden hue throughout the body. The four-inch heel makes for a dramatic effect. But with heels this pretty, you’ll want to be sure they’re seen by pairing them with a dress with a shorter hem. Still, if gold isn’t your thing, these heels also come in beautiful bronze glitter hue. Buy them at Forward!
13. Stuart Weitzman Slingback Pumps
We don’t blame any bride who opts for a lower pair of wedding heels. Considering how many hours you’ll wear your wedding day shoes, you have every right to give your tootsies a break. These Stuart Weitzman pumps are the ultimate kitten heels. Your feet will thank you with these two-inch heels and comfy heel strap that features elastic. We’re loving the patterned silver fabric that’s the perfect accent for any shade of white. Buy it at Farfetch!
14. Alexandre Birman Clarita Sandals
Is it really metallic if it doesn’t shine back at you? Alexandre Birman’s answer is no, it’s not. And that’s why we’re in love with this Clarita sandal. This bold and highly polished goatskin leather features a rich silver finish that’s so sleek you can see your face in the reflection. You’ll love the knot at the toe strap that’s also carried through to the ankle strap. And with a 3.25-inch heel, you should be able to dance the night away in these gorgeous bridal heels. Buy them at Shopbop!
15. Mansur Gavriel Glitter Pumps
Traditional brides that still want to have an edge to their bridal look will love these glittery kitten heels from Mansur Gavriel. These 2.5-inch wedding heels offer a classic shape – the closed-toed pointed heel – while giving you a touch of modernity with the bold silver glitter texture that is carried throughout the shoe’s upper and onto the heel. This is a style that will work with almost any type of silhouette or bridal style. Buy it at Shopbop!
Something Blue
16. Jimmy Choo Love Pumps
Opting to turn your shoes into your “something blue” is a tried and true option for many brides. But if you want it to be a soft blue, you’re going to love these bridal shoes from Jimmy Choo. With a 3.5-inch heel, these are the perfect balance for someone who wants a traditional heel height. And the soft goatskin suede will have you wanting to wear these shoes long after your big day. Get them at Farfetch!
17. Jennifer Chamandi Vittorio Slingback Pumps
We’re big fans of slingbacks. They’re a versatile style of shoe that looks great for so many occasions. The Jennifer Chamandi Vittorio slingback is a beautiful luxe satin heel with plenty of classic embellishments, making it a great option for bridal affairs. The teardrop crystal brooch at the toes and the gold embellishments in the heel are eye-catching. And while this is a taller heel, we think the compliments you get while wearing them will be worth it. Buy it at Farfetch!
18. Attico Kitten Heel Sandal
Sometimes, you just want to go big or go home. The Attico kitten-heel sandal is the option for brides that are focused on making a statement. Instead of opting for a soft pastel blue, this bold teal hue will turn heads – and will also give you plenty of mileage after your wedding. The strappy wedding shoe design and satin upper make this super comfortable. And the small two-inch kitten heel means that you can spend all day in these without sacrificing your feet in the process. Shop them at Forward!
19. Gianvito Rossi Gianvito 70 Pumps
Even if you like the idea of wearing blue wedding shoes as your “something blue,” you might not be ready to embrace some of the bolder hues we’ve highlighted so far. If this sounds familiar, then you’ll appreciate the Gianvito Rossi suede pumps. These kitten heels feature an ice blue that’s so pale you might need to squint to confirm that they’re blue. The low heel makes them a smart choice for a wedding day, while the soft and supple suede will make you want to touch them all day long. Get them at My Theresa!
20. Paris Texas Metallic Blue Sandals
A bold wedding shoe with ankle ties deserves to be put on display. So, if you decide to make these heels your “something blue,” you better pair them with a shorter hemline so they can be properly showcased. We’re loving the strappy sandal, metallic baby blue finish, and the very long ankle ties that give you a lot of versatility to either wear the straps fully wrapped around your ankle or to tie them further up your leg. This shoe is definitely for the bride looking to make an entrance. Shop them at Farfetch!
Platform Bridal Shoes
21. Sophia Webster Andie Platform Sandals
There’s something awesome about a vintage bride who channels a bygone era in her wedding day look. These Sophia Webster platform sandals are the perfect way to imitate the golden Disco era. We love the covered block heel and satin finish on the upper. But the sweet bow on the toe helps to tie this style effortlessly into the bridal world. Buy it at Shopbop!
22. Badgley Mischka Kiara Pump
Badgley Mischka is normally known for its heavily embellished wedding shoes. But not every bride wants a shoe that’s so “in your face” at the toe. The Kiara pump is the perfect compromise. A sleek upper with a peep toe is paired with a bold heel design. For the best effect, pair this shoe with a higher hem so everyone can be mesmerized as you watch away. Shop this pair at Nordstrom!
23. Saint Laurent Hall Bow Heel
If you love metallics, but you live for a good platform wedding shoe, the Saint Laurent Hall bow-embellished heel is the perfect option. This ankle-tie sandal pairs a bold warm gold hue with a cross-front tie and a flirty bow at the ankle. We like that this is a wider heel so brides that don’t like stilettos will rejoice. Pick them up at Forward!
24. Aquazzura Gin Platform Sandals
While white, metallics, and even blue are popular accent colors for brides, not everyone wants to follow that well-worn path. These Aquazurra leather sandals are a beautiful blush pink. Although these are a truly tall shoe (a 5.5-inch heel and 1.77-inch heel), they are going to be a great solution for a petite bride who wants to create a heightened effect for their wedding day. Shop them at My Theresa!
25. Gucci Platform Sandal with Double G
Statement-focused brides are going to love this bold platform wedding heel. A relatively sleek design features a gold-tone calf leather upper with the iconic double G that Gucci is known for. In true vintage style, this shoe looks like it stepped right out of the archives of Studio54. Aside from the Double G, this shoe shines because of its somewhat understated design. Get it at Farfetch!
Kitten Heels
26. Jacquemus Les Sandales Manosque
Imagine if the actual heel design on your wedding shoes was the thing that turned heads. This Jacquemus pair will leave guests talking for all the right reasons thanks to a bold kitten heel that is sculpted into a beautiful bead that features striping, reminding you of the onion-shaped spires of Russian Orthodox churches. Shop them at Forward!
27. Karl Lagerfeld Paris Demas Sandal
With a name like Karl Lagerfeld, you know that the design is going to be timeless. This sandal is a classic kitten wedding heel that has plenty of mileage long after your wedding day has ended. We love the low heel paired with a simple ankle and toe strap. This shoe will work with almost any dress (except for the most dramatic of styles – think Berta). Buy them at Nordstrom!
28. Red (V) Slingback Pumps
We’re so in love with these kitten heels because they’re a style that hails to the height of fashion icons from a bygone era such as Jackie Kennedy or Marilyn Monroe. There’s a lot to love here, starting with the adorable bows at the pointed toes, the translucent sides of the upper, and the low heel. This wedding shoe is the perfect marriage (see what we did there!) between fashion and comfort. Shop them at My Theresa!
29. Gucci Deva Pumps
Once again Gucci makes the list, but this time with a splashier shoe. The Deva pump features a true kitten heel at just 1.4 inches tall. This soft blush pink shoe offers a mixed metal style with a gold buckle design at the pointed toe and a silver chain strap at the rise. This is a great option for fashion-forward brides who opt for a sheath style gown. Get this pair at Forward!
30. Badgley Mischka Dash Halo Strap Sandal
For brides that want the look of luxe for less, Badgley Mischka’s embellished sandal is a happy compromise. While it’s priced to make your wallet smile, you can brag to your ‘maids and guests that the bold jeweled design at the toe is from Badgley Mischka. And with a comfy low heel that measures in at two inches, your feet will thank you too. Keep it bridal ready by opting for the light gold Nappa hue. Shop them at Nordstrom!
Flat Bridal Shoes
31. Jimmy Choo Erin Slingback Flats
Even if you’ve got the world’s strongest feet, at some point as you reach the end of your wedding reception, your tootsies are going to be talking – and not in a good way! It’s always a good idea to have a backup pair of wedding flats. And this is doubly true if you opted for a sky-high pair of heels.
These Jimmy Choo Erin slingbacks are the perfect option when you still want to present a fashionable image, but you want to give your tootsies a break. We love the clean design of this white neutral leather and the pointed toe for a touch of sophistication. Shop them at Moda Operandi!
32. Miu Miu Leather Ballerina Flats
Everyone knows that ballerina wedding flats are about as comfortable a shoe as you can get. While the basic style of the upper is simple, we love the crystal embellishments in the heel and at the ankle. These are great backup bridal shoes after you’ve danced the night away. Pick them up at Forward!
33. Valentino Garavani Rockstud Ballet Flats
There’s something about patent leather that’s just so alluring as an accessory. Whether it’s a handbag, clutch, or a pair of wedding shoes, patent leather draws the eyes in and is just so sleek and sophisticated.
These Valentino Garavani Rockstud flats take a drool-worthy style and make it wearable by turning it into a must-have flat. These flat bridal shoes will be wearable long after your wedding day. But they’re a sophisticated touch for when you’re ready to give your feet a break at your reception. Shop them at My Theresa!
34. Aquazzura Crystal Flat Sandals
Sandals are always a great choice for brides – especially if you’re planning a traditional beachside destination wedding. These Aquazzura bridal sandals are perfect because they can be easily paired with dressy and casual apparel. We’re in love with the larger stones that completely cover all of the straps on these cute sandals. Shop them at Farfetch!
35. Jimmy Choo Love Glitter Ballet Flats
You shouldn’t have to give up on your favorite embellishments just because you’ve opted for a comfy pair of bridal flats. These Jimmy Choo flats are the perfect solution, acting as a tootsie-friendly alternative to this brand’s popular high heel style. While these are pointy-toed rather than a true ballet-toe shape, we love the gradient style of the glitter that doesn’t shift color, but rather the size of the glitter from chunky to smooth as you go towards the heel. Get them at My Theresa!
Glamorous
36. Magda Butrym Finland Heel
Maybe you want to use your wedding shoes to create your “something blue,” but you don’t want a style that’s as “on the nose” as those in our “Something Blue” recommendations. This Magda Butrym heel manages to create drama and marry it with tradition thanks to the mother of pearl accent at the ankle. Fashion-forward brides will like the transparent construction at the toe, and the lucite wrapped heel, making it a versatile option for any style or color of wedding dress. Shop them at Forward!
37. Bottega Veneta Chain-Trimmed Mesh Pumps
If you’re a non-traditional bride, you need accessories that complement your unique style. These Bottega Veneta pumps are the perfect solution. We love the tan sandal that’s encased in a loose mesh construction and features bold gold chains at the ankle strap. And again, this is a cute bold style that you’ll want to wear after your wedding as well! Grab them at My Theresa!
38. Jimmy Choo Talka 100 Metallic Pumps
If you’re not a fan of leather wedding shoes, these Jimmy Choo pumps are the perfect solution. The fabric upper features a soft “Ballet” pink with a metallic finish. And we’re in love with how the crystal-embellished chain winds across the foot from the outer ankle to the inner toe. These are true stilettos though, so we recommend a backup pair of wedding heels to give your feet a rest later in the night. Buy them at My Theresa!
39. Midnight 00 Leather & Tulle Pumps
Some brides prefer their outfit to do all the talking. And that’s why we’re recommending the Midnight 00 pumps. While these wedding shoes are technically understated with minimal embellishments through the upper, the embellishments that are added are eye-catching. We’re in love with the cute tulle ruffle that’s strategically placed towards the toe. But of course, a shoe this bold needs to be put on display. Wear it with a shorter hem to give it the attention it deserves. Shop them at My Theresa!
40. Badgley Mischka Evan Satin Pumps
Considering how the name Badgley Mischka is synonymous with bold embellishments, understated brides might prefer their Evan satin pumps. While the upper is devoid of any embellishments and simply showcases a solid satin finish, the wedding heel is the star of the show. The 3.1-inch heel is covered in crystals and has even been fitted into a geometric shape to create visual interest. Get this pair at Farfetch!
How to Choose the Perfect Bridal Shoes to Match Your Dress
You might think that the hardest part of planning your wedding day look is in picking the dress. But the reality is that everything that has to do with how you look when you walk down the aisle is going to make you feel like it’s a life or death decision.
First things first, take a breath! Make sure you enjoy wedding planning and don’t begin to approach it like a chore. Second, consider these tips to help make planning your wedding day look – and specifically your bridal shoes – perfection.
Always Pick Your Dress First
Even if you’ve always dreamed of wearing a pair of Christian Louboutins on your big day, don’t buy the shoes first. As tempting as it might be, your dress and your wedding shoes need to be in sync. By this we mean, you wouldn’t pair a laid-back set of sandals with a highly embellished ball gown from Ines Di Santo. While yes, you can technically do anything your bridal heart desires, this style pairing just wouldn’t make sense.
But when you pick your dress first, you can instantly narrow your shoe search towards styles, heights, embellishments, and complementary colors.
But There’s a Caveat…
If you’re picking a more traditional wedding dress length that hits the floor, you can get away with picking a shoe that might not be a perfect complement to your gown. This is especially true if your gown is a ball gown or an A-line silhouette where your feet are barely if ever visible.
Still, Be Realistic About Height
If you’re not the type who usually wears heels or very high heels, your wedding isn’t the day to pick Christian Louboutin’s tallest heels. It’s the same concept behind wedding experts who tell you not to try a new makeup look or hairstyle by yourself for your wedding – things usually won’t end well. Whether it’s a concern about comfort or actual wearability, always err on the side of caution.
And even if you’re an old pro with heels, be smart. Most brides spend around 12 or more hours in their wedding attire. You’ll be wearing these wedding heels to the ceremony, during wedding photos, and potentially throughout your wedding reception and maybe even to the afterparty. Even the most experienced heel wearer is going to need a break. You don’t want to be limping down the aisle to your beau.
Also, keep in mind that if you pick a voluminous dress with many under layers, you can’t see your feet. It’s not uncommon for the heel to get caught in those layers. So, a more controllable heel will give you a fighting chance at avoiding a bridal wipeout.
Consider Picking Two Pairs of Bridal Shoes
Even if you have your heart set on a stunning pair of daring stilettos, it’s still a good idea to pick a backup pair of comfy wedding shoes. Especially if you plan on cutting a rug across the dance floor, it’s easier to do that when you’re not wincing with every step. Opt for a cute pair of flats, kitten heels, or even cute low-top style sneakers (think Converse or Keds).
Create a Timeless Look
In theory, you can do anything you want because it’s your big day. But if you want to create a look that is going to be more timeless than a snapshot in time, there are some general fashion rules you should follow:
A bold shoe deserves to be seen. Popular designers like Badgley Mischka are known for heavily embellished bridal shoes. But depending on where the embellishment is located, they don’t always pair well with every dress silhouette. While toe embellishments are more forgiving of full-length gowns, if you have a heel accent that you’re trying to showcase, you need a shorter hemline.
Bold can go with bold. A gown that’s dripping in accents won’t look garish if it’s paired with an equally embellished wedding shoe. But that same bold shoe can look amazing when paired with a minimalist wedding dress or pantsuit. In this scenario, it can act as a conversation piece that brings visual interest to your overall look.
But a plain shoe isn’t always complementary to a bold dress. If you have a higher hemline, an understated shoe can look a tad lackluster. These are better for traditional wedding dress styles or longer hemlines.
Don’t Forget to Try Them on
Don’t forget to try your wedding shoes on before you buy them. Of course, we understand that there’s only so much you can do to ensure comfort before you break a pair of shoes in, but this will go a long way in helping your shoe hunt. Can you walk in them? Are they too tall? These are all baseline issues that should be addressed before you commit to buying a pair of wedding heels.
Mind the White Hue
While there’s nothing wrong with pulling a pop of color in your wedding heels, trying to create the perfect match to your white dress can be hard. As you already know if you’ve gone wedding dress shopping, “white” has a lot of variable hues. It can be hard to perfectly match the whites. And this is why many brides opt for color or metallic hues for their wedding shoes instead.
A great option is to opt for matching your bridesmaids’ dress color instead. This is a great way to tie your wedding theme together.
Consider Your Venue
If you’re having a backyard or outdoor wedding and ceremony, just say no to stilettos. Grass and thin heels just don’t mix. Instead, opt for a thicker heel that will give you more support and is less likely to sink into the ground.
And likewise, if you’re venue has super-slick flooring, you need to be mindful of that, so you don’t end up wiping out at your ceremony or reception. And speaking of which…
Don’t Forget to Break in Your Wedding Shoes
Just like anything else, don’t let your wedding day be the first day that you decide to wear your wedding shoes. Especially with luxury brands, the soles tend to not be textured. So, you’re going to want to do a bit of walking in them to give you a bit of grip.
And for the upper, you don’t want a pair of shoes that are cutting into your toes or the sides of your feet. Take the time to break them in properly a few weeks prior.
Consider Your Budget
While the majority of the wedding shoes in our guide are luxury options, there are plenty of affordable options if your budget doesn’t allow for a more expensive pair of wedding heels. There are plenty of ways to get the bling, color, or general style you want without breaking the bank.
Don’t forget Longevity
Even if you’re dripping in diamonds and can afford to buy a new pair of shoes every day, there’s something foolish about picking a pair of shoes that isn’t usable past one day. To get the most out of your wedding shoes, look for styles that can be worn beyond your wedding day.
Keep in mind that some styles are wedding focused. These include options that feature lace textures or pearl embellishments, as both of these styles are nearly exclusively the domain of the bridal world.
The Perfect Something Blue
If you don’t know where to put your “something blue” add-on, your wedding shoes are the perfect option. Whether you choose to go with a bold sapphire or a soft baby blue hue, you’ll check off the “something blue” box while also picking a wearable style that’s useful well after you’ve had the last glass of champagne.
Photos via Instagram
