Your wedding day is a significant occasion, filled with love, laughter, and the promise of forever. Every detail matters, from the gown you’ll wear to the flowers adorning the venue. One often underestimated yet crucial detail is your choice of wedding shoes. They’re not just an accessory; they’re the foundation upon which you’ll walk down the aisle towards your happily ever after.
Comfort is Key
Your wedding day is a long journey, not just emotionally but physically. You’ll not only be standing and walking, but dancing till your heart’s content. Thus, making sure you can last all night on your feet is important. Opt for shoes that not only complement your style but also offer support and cushioning. Consider factors like heel height and shape, arch support, and material when making your selection.
Photo Credit: The Weber Photographers
Match Your Style
Your wedding shoes should seamlessly complement your overall bridal look and personality. There is a shoe for every style. Whether you’re envisioning a fairytale princess, a modern minimalist vibe, or even a western boot. Classic pumps exude timeless elegance, while strappy sandals add a touch of romance. For a whimsical feel, consider ballet flats or even embellished sneakers. Ensure that your chosen style reflects your personality and coordinates with your overall theme.
Photo Credit: Sydney Marie Photography
Consider the Venue
The venue plays a significant role in determining the most suitable shoe style. If you’re exchanging vows outdoors, particularly on grass or sand, stilettos might not be the most practical choice. Instead, you may want to consider wedges or flats to prevent any sinking. For indoor celebrations, you have more flexibility in terms of heel height and material. However, keep in mind factors like floor surface and potential obstacles when finalizing your decision.
Photo Credit: E.C. Campbell Photography
Think About the Season
The time of year can influence your shoe selection. For summer weddings, breathable fabrics like silk or satin are ideal to keep your feet cool and comfortable. However, winter weddings call for closed-toe styles crafted from luxe materials like velvet or suede to keep your feet warm. You may even consider wearing boots if it is a winter wonderland.
Photo Credit: Tim Kamppinen Photography
Don’t Forget About Color
Don’t be afraid to incorporate a pop of color! Even though traditional white or ivory color shoes are popular, your shoes can coordinate with your bridal bouquet for a cohesive look. The shoe can also serve as your “something blue”. If you want to add a glamour component, embrace metallic hues like gold or silver which complement any color scheme. Just ensure that your chosen shade harmonizes with your overall palette for a polished finish.
Photo Credit: Jamie and Sarah Photography
Test Drive Your Shoes
Before committing to your wedding shoes, take them for a test drive. Wear them around the house to gauge comfort and fit. Pay attention to any areas of discomfort or potential rubbing, especially if you plan to wear them for an extended period. Consider adding cushioned insoles or heel grips for extra support and to prevent slipping.
Photo Credit: Michael Murphy IV Photography
Embrace Your Personality
Your wedding shoes offer an opportunity for personalization and sentimentality. Consider embellishments like monograms, charms, or custom embroidery to add a unique touch. Or if you are not a heels kind of gal, customized sneakers are such a great option! These personalized touches not only elevate your shoes but also create lasting memories to cherish.
Photo Credit: Gauper Photo
Plan for Aftercare
Your wedding dress is not the only thing you may want to preserve from your special day. If this is the case, you may want to invest in proper aftercare. Storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight will help prevent any discoloration or warping. If you did have a bit too much fun on your day and happen to find a stain or dirt on your shoes, do not worry. You may always seek out professional cleaning or preservation services.
Photo Credit: Killer Creations Photography
Budget Wisley
Do not forget to overlook the cost of your shoes when budgeting your wedding ensemble. While it’s very tempting to splurge on the perfect pair of shoes, consider your overall budget and priority. For some brides, they much rather spend the money elsewhere and that is perfectly okay! But if you are a girl who loves a statement shoe moment, this is an important component to your wedding look.
Photo Credit: Riversedge Photography
Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, the most important factor in choosing a shoe is how they make you feel. Trust your instincts and select a pair that speaks to you. Whether it is a more practical shoe, or love at first sight, your wedding shoes should embody your individuality and make you feel confident as you embark on this new chapter of your life.
Photo Credit: Jason Switzer Photography
Your wedding shoes are a symbol of the journey you are about to begin with the love of your life. You want to find the shoe that embodies your personality while also coordinating with your overall theme. Don’t forget, the shoe should be comfortable so you can walk down the aisle in ease and dance happily forever after.