Do Wedding Shoes Matter?

Choosing the ideal bridal shoes to complement your stunning dress is a must when it comes to the large list of wedding accessories you need to buy. Finding the perfect pair of wedding shoes can be as easy (or as difficult) as finding the perfect dress for some brides, while for others it might feel like the ultimate fashion quest (which is key no matter how much you value style).

Whatever else may be more important to you on your wedding day, your footwear will play a major role, nonetheless. You have to enjoy wearing them, of course, but you also have to be willing to do so for extended periods of time, sometimes for as much as 15 hours straight (think about that for a moment). So, how do you choose the perfect bridal shoe? We sought the advice of industry experts.

Even while your hair, makeup, and accessories are all important, the most important part of your wedding day outfit is your shoes. You should put a lot of thought into the shoes you choose to wear on your wedding day, as you will be standing or sitting for several hours in them. Whether you're looking to make a fashion statement or be comfortable all day, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a pair of heels (or flats) for the big day.

How Do You Select Wedding Shoes?

Buy Your Wedding Dress First

• First and foremost, your wedding footwear should match the elegance and sophistication of your outfit. Buying the shoes before finding the dress is a surefire way to ensure that won't happen.
• The sort of a shoe should be worn depends on how much of your dress you want to show off. Wearing a floor-length gown with a train will draw more eyes to your feet than will a tea-length gown.

Determine Your Shoe Objectives (and Budget)

• Before you begin buying, set a budget for your wedding footwear. Settling on a price range in advance will facilitate your search.
• You should consider your wedding shoe goals:
  • Do you and your companion have footwear that coordinates?
  • Is convenience more important to you than fashion?
  • Do you plan on spending the day in the same footwear?
  • Purchasing a substandard pair, do you?
  • Do you want your footwear to be bold or understated?
• While some ladies want to have their shoes act as their "something blue," the majority of brides choose to coordinate their footwear with the rest of their wedding ensemble. Consider where you fall on the spectrum between wedding shoes with a bright, eye-catching colour and those with a more subtle palette, or even white.
• Consider whether you're the kind to wear high heels. If you can walk around in heels all day without any discomfort, then they should be good for your wedding. In contrast, if you have trouble walking in heels, you should wear whatever helps you feel the most at ease.

Consider Your Location

• As you shop for your wedding footwear, keep in mind the venue. Wearing heels to a beach ceremony is probably not a good idea.
• Think about the setting: Are there a lot of stairwells? Can we expect to walk on gravel? Inadequate traction on the dance floor? Think about these important aspects and how different styles of footwear will perform in certain settings.

Monitor The Weather

• Be prepared for rainy conditions by having an alternate pair of shoes on hand for the big day. Dainty flats or sky-high stilettos are not suited for use on wet grass, mud, or puddle-filled pavements.
• During the outdoor parts of your wedding day, like taking photographs, you may want to. You might want to slip on a cute pair of rubber rain boots under your raincoat in the off chance that it rains. If it's going to be chilly and snowy on your wedding day, furry winter boots are a cute touch to your attire.

Shop Around

• Although it's easy to buy the first pair of shoes that catches your eye, you should look around and consider your options before making a final purchase.
• Typically, stores don't carry as many styles as online retailers do, so it's best to start your search on the web and then visit physical locations to purchase your prefered options.

Prioritise Comfort

• Think about whether you'll be able to wear the shoe comfortably all day and into the night. You don't want the only thing you remember about your wedding day to be how badly your feet hurt.
• If your feet hurt from wearing shoes, try some of these preventative measures, such as taping your third and fourth toes together or using a liquid Band-aid on sore spots.
• Keep a pair of flats or stylish sneakers in your bag in case your arches start to hurt after a night of dancing.

Bring Them With You To Your Dress Fittings.

• Remember to bring your footwear to each dress visit if you need to have any modifications done. You can have your dress altered by a seamstress so that it is appropriate for your new high heels.
• You can double check that the dress and shoes look well together by practising your wedding day walk in front of a mirror (and while you're still awake, go shopping).

Wedding Shoe Dos And Don'ts

Wedlock and footwear are two of our favourite things ever. Our heart skips a beat at the thought of shopping for wedding shoes (well, so, ANY shoe shopping!) but it's not always easy to locate the pair that's quite right. It's not as simple as buying the first pair you see! You will be on your feet for a good portion of your wedding day, and wearing uncomfortable shoes will diminish your experience. You'll want to avoid making these typical mistakes and follow this best advice instead.

• They might be anyone, so Don`t assume they're white. Even while white satin shoes are the traditional wedding shoe, many modern brides want to wear shoes that better reflect their personal taste. That can include things like bright colours, odd shoe shapes, or elaborate embellishments. Give in to your shoe obsession! Choose a pair that you will actually want to wear again, and don't be afraid to venture outside the traditional black, brown, or ivory colour palette. (They need not even be high heels!)
• Shoes and outfits should be purchased together. You should wear shoes that make you feel comfortable, but also complement the clothing. Finding your wedding dress should come before shopping for shoes. In this manner, you can ensure that the aesthetic, colour scheme, and level of detail are consistent throughout. Or, think of the inverse. You shouldn't wear celebratory sneakers with a formal gown, but if that's your thing, it may be a lot of fun. Intentionally match or mismatch everything!
• Don't be cheap and skip out on shoes! If you, like have a penchant for high-end footwear, you may have noticed that these shoes may quickly add up in price if you don't plan accordingly. Naturally, if money is tight, you don't have to go out and buy a pair of Manolos or Louboutins. Stunning footwear is available at more affordable prices. However, you should still leave some wiggle space in your budget to ensure you pick a pair you truly adore and feel great in.
• Don't wait until the first dress fitting to pick them up. To the first (and subsequent) dress fittings, bring your wedding footwear. That way, as the alterations are being made, the dressmaker will know exactly how much your shoes protrude from the dress.
• Avoid wearing shoes that hurt your feet. A pair of uncomfortable shoes, no matter how lovely they are, will be something you always regret. Count the number of times you'll need to stand, walk, and pose for photos on your wedding day, as well as the times you'll be greeting guests, dancing, and interacting with other guests. Having sore feet will take your attention away from the wonderful experience you are having. It's important to pick a shoe style, whether flats or heels, that you can live in for hours at a time without experiencing any discomfort.
• Before you buy, make sure they fit. This is why it's not a good idea to shop for footwear online. Before purchase, you should be able to put them on and move about in them. Try them on to see if they fit well and if you feel stable when walking in them. It's fine to buy shoes online if you've previously tried them on and know they're the right fit, but if you haven't, it's best to do some in-store research first to avoid making multiple trips.
• You must remember to wear them in. Another faux pas frequently committed by future Mrs. Keep them clean and immaculate but break them in by wearing them around the house or office. Wear them when you practise your dance moves. Practice dancing in them ahead of time, and you'll feel confident and poised when it comes time for your first dance.
• Bring along an extra pair of shoes. Consider it a good idea to get two pairs of shoes for the wedding. Eventually, even the most dedicated heel wearer will need a comfortable pair of flats to keep the party going. Make sure you always have a backup pair of shoes on hand, whether it's a pair of flats, a lower heel, or even a pair of glittering flip flops. God forbid you might hurt your heel!

Why Change Into a Second Pair of Wedding Shoes?

Although changing into a different pair of shoes for the reception is nothing new, it is becoming increasingly common. It's always nice to have a backup pair of wedding shoes, and depending on the style, it can be really useful.

There are some pairs of shoes that appear great in still images but are absolute torture to wear. The bride can wear a more formal pair for the ceremony and photos, and then switch to a more comfortable pair for the reception, when she will be doing most of her walking and dancing.

Those who can dance in five-inch stilettos should be applauded. However, if your wedding shoes are too uncomfortable to walk in, you might consider replacing them with something more practical. You'll be glad you didn't waste the night fretting about things like blisters and you won't even see them in photos if your dress is long enough.

If You Can't See Them, Consider Comfort First

If no one is going to be looking at your feet, it's hardly worth worrying about whether or not your shoes are fashionable. However, this does not give you licence to wear your regular pair of workout shoes. Choose a pair of shoes that are more practical and that you will like wearing even after the wedding. It is your wedding, so choose something that has meaning to you but that you also know you will be comfortable wearing for long periods of time.

Be True To Yourself

The expert recommends prioritising both comfort and personal expression when making a purchase. "Wear stilettos, booties, or sandals if that's what it takes. Your footwear selections should make you happy and confident."

Think Of It As An Investment

Now might be the moment to treat yourself to that expensive pair of shoes you've been wanting for years. Whether or not they are interpreted as "bridal," now is the time to spend on a pair you will truly love and wear often. Since unconventional footwear is rarely seen in public, many brides want to wear it on the big day. They are the ideal pair for your nuptials if you adore them, wear them frequently, and plan to continue doing so in the future.

Be sure that your wedding shoes, whether they are laced, strapped, slides, or shuffles, are appropriate for the wedding's formality level, the length of your dress, and your personal preference in comfort. In particular, your wedding footwear should be a reflection of who you are as a person. Then, flaunt them appropriately and dance the night away in them on your wedding day.

Conclusion

The wedding day shoes you choose to wear will set the tone for the rest of your ensemble. Finding the right shoes to go with your outfit can be just as challenging. Consider if you prefer heels or flats when searching for your wedding footwear. Wet grass or puddle-filled sidewalks are no place for dainty flats or sky-high stilettos. Furry winter boots are a cute addition to an outfit if it's going to be cold and snowy outside.

Not all brides need to drop hundreds of dollars on a pair of Manolos or Louboutins for their wedding day. Instead, pick a pair of shoes that you can walk about in for hours without getting sore feet. Get used to dancing in them ahead of time to ensure a good fit. Keep an extra pair of shoes on hand if one of your primary pairs gets damaged. If your wedding footwear is making it difficult to walk, consider looking into finding an alternative.

An expert advises consumers to put equal weight on convenience and individuality when purchasing. For example, many ladies prefer to wear unique shoes for their weddings because they are rarely seen on special occasions.

Content Summary

• Choosing the ideal bridal shoes to complement your stunning dress is a must regarding the large list of wedding accessories you need to buy.
• Even while your hair, makeup, and accessories are all important, your shoes are the most important part of your wedding day outfit.
• It would be best if you put a lot of thought into the shoes you choose to wear on your wedding day, as you will be standing or sitting for several hours in them.
• First and foremost, your wedding footwear should match the elegance and sophistication of your outfit.
• Buying the shoes before finding the dress is a surefire way to ensure that won't happen.
• Before you begin buying, set a budget for your wedding footwear.
• Consider where you fall between wedding shoes with a bright, eye-catching colour and those with a more subtle palette or white.
• Consider whether you're the kind to wear high heels.
• As you shop for your wedding footwear, keep in mind the venue.
• Be prepared for rainy conditions by having an alternate pair of shoes for the big day.
• Although it's easy to buy the first pair of shoes that catches your eye, you should look around and consider your options before making a final purchase.
• Think about whether you'll be able to wear the shoe comfortably all day and into the night.
• You don't want the only thing you remember about your wedding day to be how badly your feet hurt.
• You can have your dress altered by a seamstress, so it is appropriate for your new high heels.
• You can double-check that the dress and shoes look well together by practising your wedding day walk in front of a mirror (and while you're still awake, go shopping).
• You will be on your feet for a good portion of your wedding day, and wearing uncomfortable shoes will diminish your experience.
• Choose a pair you want to wear again, and don't be afraid to venture outside the traditional black, brown, or ivory colour palette. 
• Finding your wedding dress should come before shopping for shoes.
• Bring your wedding footwear to the first (and subsequent) dress fittings.
• Avoid wearing shoes that hurt your feet.
• Count the times you'll need to stand, walk, and pose for photos on your wedding day and the times you'll be greeting guests, dancing, and interacting with other guests.
• Try them on to see if they fit well and if you feel stable when walking in them.
• You must remember to wear them.
• Wear them when you practise your dance moves.
• Practice dancing in them ahead of time, and you'll feel confident and poised when it comes time for your first dance.
• Consider it a good idea to get two pairs of shoes for the wedding.
• The bride can wear a more formal pair for the ceremony and photos and then switch to a more comfortable pair for the reception when she does most of her walking and dancing.
• However, if your wedding shoes are too uncomfortable, consider replacing them with something more practical.
• If no one is going to be looking at your feet, it's hardly worth worrying about whether or not your shoes are fashionable.
• Choose a pair of shoes that are more practical and that you will like wearing even after the wedding.
• Wear stilettos, booties, or sandals if that's what it takes.
• Be sure that your wedding shoes, whether laced, strapped, slid, or shuffled, are appropriate for the wedding's formality level, the length of your dress, and your preference for comfort.
• In particular, your wedding footwear should reflect who you are.
• Then, flaunt them appropriately and dance the night away on your wedding day.