16 Best Wedding Shoes for Every Kind of Bride
According to a bride-to-be.
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As a bride-to-be who has recently started the overwhelming process of finding the dress (along with multiple other occasion looks), I’ve learned that styling your dress (or dresses) with the right pair of wedding shoes is pivotal to creating a full wedding look without interrupting your bridal aesthetic. Do you prefer a classic pair of pumps or sparkling sandals, or are you dead set on having satin shoes to match your silk gown? Is comfort a main factor? Do you want plush pumps that’ll last the night, or are you committed to posing in sky-high stilettos and changing into sneakers or a pair of chic kitten heels? Maybe you want your shoes to be your
“something blue” à la Carrie Bradshaw, which means you’ll certainly want to show those Manolos off and not hide them under a skirt.
For me, I realized that if I have a bigger dress, I’ll want lower shoes so I don’t trample over myself while walking down the aisle. But for other wedding events where I have looks that show some leg, I want more of a statement-making, most likely sparkling shoe (because I’m a sucker for embellishment and anything that gives glass-slipper vibes).
Every bride is different, and every bride needs to find the best wedding shoes that suit their bridal persona. From satin pumps and pretty bow details to embellished mules and statement sandals, read ahead for 16 of the best wedding shoes for every kind of bride and outfit.
For the Marie Antoinette Bride
Brother Vellies Stell Mules in Ivory
For the bride who loves an over-the-top accessory, consider these ornate 17th-century-inspired mules that are truly a work of art. Made of delicate satin, the lavish ruffled shoes are romantic but bold.
The Fan Favorite
Loeffler Randall Camellia White Pleated Bow Heels
It’s hard to find a bride who hasn’t worn these famed Loeffler Randall sandals. Not only are the shoes beautifully made of pleated organza while featuring a delicate bow detail, they’re extremely comfortable. Let’s face it, wedding shoes don’t have the best rep for comfort. With the shoe’s block heel and padded footbed, you can literally dance the night away without realizing you’ve got on nearly four-inch heels.
The Sleek Stiletto Sandal
Larroudé x Markarian Bridal Sandals in White Satin
If you like the idea of a custom shoe, look no further than this exclusive design by Larroudé and womenswear label Markarian. The bridal collaboration combines the romantic modernism of Markarian’s aesthetic with the craftsmanship of Larroudé footwear for a one-of-a-kind shoe that is designed for every kind of bride. Made of crisp white satin, the made-to-order sandals look delicate but are both durable and comfortable.
For the Bride Who Doesn’t Do Heels
Sam Edelman Womens Bianka Slingback Pumps
There’s no rule that says you have to wear heels on your wedding day. If you love the comfort of flats but want a bit of height, consider these Sam Edelman best sellers. A favorite style of Kylie Jenner (she’s the new face of Sam Edelman), these versatile shoes can be worn with any or all of your bridal-occasion outfits and also double as a great staple for your everyday wardrobe. It’s not too often that you can pair wedding shoes with jeans.
For the Bride Who Loves a Bit of Sparkle
Gucci GG Slingback Pumps
These sparkling kitten heels can easily elevate any bridal fit, whether you’re hitting the dance floor or posing for photos. And the best part? The beautiful blush shoe is a versatile investment piece that can be worn year-round outside of wedding festivities.
The “Something Blue” Shoe
Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Opal 70 Crystal-Embellished Satin Pumps
Ever since the day Carrie Bradshaw married Mr. Big in her royal-blue Hangisi Manolo Blahniks, brides everywhere were inspired to pair the iconic shoe with their wedding looks as their “something blue.” So whether you’re looking to channel your inner Carrie or need an excuse to buy some new Manolos, you’re sure to make a statement in these timeless embellished pumps.
For the Classic Bride
Manolo Blahnik Campari Bridal 90 Grosgrain-Trimmed Satin Mary Jane Pumps
Nothing says classy like a bridal-white Manolo mary jane pump. The Campari bridal shoe is made from lustrous satin with a slim grosgrain-trimmed strap at the arch and a pointed toe. The slip-on also features a delicate side-button illusion-fastener detail and an elegant fluted heel. This is an ideal option for brides who love simple elegance and vintage nostalgia.
The Feminine-Flounce Option
Dolce Vita Iesha Heels
There’s nothing we love more than a block heel. These ruffled heels are a feminine yet fun option that can be easily paired with all your wedding fits. Made of leather and accented with a fluffy ruffle detailing, these stylish sandals were made for all kinds of wedding fun.
For the Glitzy-Glam Bride
Mach & Mach Double Bow Crystal-Embellished Satin Pumps
While the brand’s ankle-wrap pumps happen to be the more popular style, for a more subdued sparkle, perfect for a rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, or courthouse wedding event, try these traditional pointed-toe pumps that feature the signature Mach & Mach glittering double-bow embellishment.
For the Sofia Richie–Inspired Bride
Stuart Weizman Sofia 50 Slingbacks
Sophie Richie Grainge was the bride everyone wanted to be when her opulent French Riviera wedding at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc broke the internet last year. Now, the mom-to-be has channeled her summer bridal aesthetic into her recent collaboration with Stuart Weitzman, where you’ll find modern, elegant staples like these Sofia slingbacks. The romantic yet practical shoe features a dainty side-bow detail and a comfortable kitten heel.
For the Disco Bride
Aquazurra Yes Darling 95 Crystal-Embellished Satin Mules
If you’re a bride who’s all about the party and plans on having a disco-ball-clad dance floor at your reception (like myself), then it only makes sense to have disco balls on your shoes, too. Say “yes” to these crystal-embellished Aquazzura mules with a unique disco-ball heel design. The four-inch satin mules are simple enough but perfectly balanced with the glittering disco-ball detail.
The Shoe You Won’t Want to Take Off
Nalebe White Heels 100
If you’re looking to make a grand entrance, might I suggest these ornate crystal-embellished shoes by Nalebe. The sustainable shoe brand is known for flashy footwear that puts comfort first. Made of silk with a lambskin lining, the cylinder-style heels are sturdy and easy to walk in. Not about the height? No problem. They also come in a shorter two-inch-heel version.
For the Bride Who Loves Lace
Malone Souliers Marion 85MM Lace Slingbacks
For the bride who plans on being garbed in a lace gown or is a fan of lace appliqués, these Malone Souliers slingback heels are crafted out of fine lace and stay true to Souliers’ signature pointed-toe design with a single leather band over the toe line of the shoe and a corresponding slingback strap. The Marion stiletto may not be your top choice for dancing, but for fashion, it’s everything.
For the Nontraditional Bride
Reformation Willa Pumps
For the bride who doesn’t want to sacrifice height but is still looking for comfort, these wedges are an edgy alternative to the classic pump. The futuristic-style shoe features a sleek patent pointed toe and wavy design that is a fun option for the fashion-forward bride who loves nontraditional styles.
The Easy Mule
Staud Brigitte Mules Paper
You can rely on these dainty Staud mules to match your white ensembles. But, if you want to go a bit more formal, the shoe also comes in silk satin.
For the Bride Who Loves a Color Accent
Charles & Keith Flor Rose-Heel Slingback Pumps
If all white (and blue) just doesn’t do it for you, dare to be different with the Charles & Keith Flor Rose pumps. The white slingback shoe features a unique Loewe-esque red-flower heel detail that will complement your bold red lip.