Discover your dream wedding shoes - explore styles, materials, and trends to match your bridal style and shine like Cinderella.----

Choosing the perfect wedding shoes is one of the most fun parts of wedding planning. Your shoes will be in all your photos and videos, so you want to pick a pair that perfectly encapsulates your style. But with so many options to choose from - pumps, flats, sandals and more - it can be overwhelming to find your dream wedding shoes.

The key is selecting shoes that reflect your personality and complement your wedding dress. Whether you want glamorous stilettos, comfortable flats or sparkly Cinderella slippers, your wedding shoes should make you feel like the best version of yourself on your special day.

This guide will walk you through the different styles, heel heights, materials and trends to consider when finding your perfect wedding shoes. We'll offer tips on how to choose shoes that match your dress, venue and wedding vision. We'll also share inside secrets on where to find stylish yet affordable options to get your dream shoes without breaking the bank.

Finding your ideal wedding shoes is about more than just outfit coordination. It's about discovering that special pair that makes you feel confident, elegant and completely bridal on your wedding day.

Introduction

History & Significance

The tradition of brides wearing special shoes for their wedding day dates back hundreds of years. In the Victorian era, it became popular for brides to wear white wedding boots often made of satin or lace. These boots symbolized purity and virginity and were sometimes tinted blue, representing "something blue." Brides would also slip a good luck sixpence coin into their boots, a Victorian tradition for prosperity. In the early 20th century, delicate lace-up boots and shoes became popular for brides. The style allowed for intricate lace detailing and designs. In modern times, most brides opt for white or ivory bridal shoes to match their gowns. But some still embrace touches of "something blue" or proper "sixpence" coins for a nod to tradition. Whatever style they choose, a bride's wedding shoes carry on the long-standing significance of symbolizing new beginnings.

Wedding Shoe Styles

There are many different styles of wedding shoes for brides to choose from. Popular options include:

Pumps - This classic style features a closed toe and high heel. Pumps offer an elegant look and work well with most wedding dresses from A-line to mermaid. They come in various heel heights to suit different comfort levels.

Sandals - Perfect for beach and bohemian inspired weddings, sandals have an open toe and come in flat, low, mid or high heel varieties. Consider embellished straps or lace-up details to complement your wedding style.

Slingbacks - Slingback shoes have a strap that wraps around and fastens at the heel. This style shows off more of the foot and leg for a flirty, vintage look.

Flats - For brides who want maximum comfort, flats offer support while still looking chic. Try embellished ballet flats or a low kitten heel for a touch of height.

Sparkly - Add some fairy tale magic with glittering heels encrusted in rhinestones, crystals or pearls. Metallic shoes are another way to shine.

Colored - Make a fun fashion statement by incorporating color through your shoes. From pale blue for your "something blue" to bold crimson red, vibrantly hued shoes put a playful spin on tradition.

Choosing Your Heel Height

One of the most important considerations when selecting your wedding shoes is the heel height. The height of the heel impacts comfort and your ability to walk confidently. You'll want to consider having different shoes for the ceremony versus the reception.

For the ceremony, consider a shorter 1-2 inch heel. This will be more comfortable for standing at the altar and walking down the aisle. Flats or low kitten heels are also a great option. According to Inside Weddings, "1-2 inches is a good choice if you're not super confident walking in high heels, but you want a bit of a lift."

For the reception, you may opt for a higher 3-4 inch heel to feel more glamorous while dancing the night away. But beware of going too high. As WeddingWire points out, "The 2 1⁄2 inch heels are perfect for those who still want a heel without having to worry about sore feet at the end of the day."

Think about when you'll be on your feet the most and standing in one place - shorter heels during those key moments will keep you comfortable. Then break out the sexy stilettos for the dance party!

Toe Shapes

When it comes to choosing the toe shape for your dream wedding shoes, brides typically opt for either a rounded or pointed toe. Rounded toes are versatile and complement most foot shapes. They create a soft, feminine look that works well with both sleek, modern dresses and more traditional A-line or ball gown silhouettes. Pointed toes elongate the leg line and create a polished, elegant aesthetic. They pair beautifully with fitted dresses and mermaid or trumpet hemlines. Pointed toes range from a subtle almond shape to a more dramatic stiletto. According to The Bridal Finery, rounded and almond toes are often the most comfortable options.

Consider your dress style and overall wedding vibe when deciding between rounded or pointed toes. Brides seeking a romantic look tend to opt for rounded toes, while those wanting an edgy, glamorous style may prefer pointed. Look for a rounded toe with a lower heel for a vintage inspired wedding shoe. Pair delicate lace dresses with the softness of an almond toe. Let your dress silhouette and accessories guide you - a sleek minimalist gown calls for pointed toes, while a full tulle skirt pairs nicely with a round toe. Work with your bridal salon consultant to select the toe shape that perfectly complements your dress and creates a cohesive look.

Materials

The material of your wedding shoes is an important consideration, as it impacts the overall look, comfort, and price. Some top materials for wedding shoes include:

Satin

Satin is a popular choice for wedding shoes. It has a luxurious sheen and works well with formal wedding gowns, especially satin dresses. Satin comes in many colors and can be matched to your dress. It has a smooth look that photographs beautifully. However, satin can show scuffs and be slippery. Look for satin shoes with a suede sole for better traction.

Lace

Lace wedding shoes offer a romantic, feminine look perfect for boho, beach, or vintage weddings. They pair nicely with lace or tulle gowns. Lace shoes come in different colors and patterns, allowing you to coordinate with your dress. They can be more delicate than other materials, so check thickness and quality.

Leather

Leather shoes are versatile and durable. Leather comes in many textures, like matte, patent, or metallic. Leather shoes can be dressed up or down, working for formal or casual weddings. They break in over time, providing comfort. Consider weather conditions, as leather can get damaged in moisture.

Suede

Suede has a soft, velvety texture that pairs well with boho style weddings. It comes in many colors to match your wedding palette. Suede is flexible and comfortable, molding to your feet over time. Just be mindful of weather, as suede can get stained in rain or muddy conditions.

Embellishments

Embellishments are the decorative details that make wedding shoes special. Popular choices include rhinestones, bows, lace, pearls, sequins and feathers. Rhinestones catch the light and add sparkle for a glamorous look. From dazzling crystals covering the entire shoe to a dainty row of stones on the toe or heel, rhinestones are eye-catching. Bows are a feminine choice, with options ranging from sweet satin bows to bold oversized bows in leather or velvet. Lace brings a romantic vibe, often seen in floral designs or sentimental heirloom lace from the wedding gown incorporated into the shoes. Soft tulle flowers are a whimsical pick that evokes a feeling of fairy tale romance. No matter your style, the right embellishments will elevate your wedding shoes into a true statement piece.

According to Pinterest, some of the most popular embellishments on wedding shoes include rhinestones, pearls, lace, bows, feathers, and flowers. Jimmy Choo's luxury wedding shoes often feature decadent embellishments like Swarovski crystals, ornate lace, and oversized silk flowers. The options are endless for adding those special finishing touches to your dream wedding shoes.

Budget & Affordability

Finding dream wedding shoes doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some tips for getting gorgeous shoes on a budget:

Rentals

Consider renting designer shoes just for your wedding day. Rental services like Rent the Runway offer high-end designer heels at a fraction of the retail price.

Sales

Check end of season sales at bridal salons, department stores, and online retailers. You can often find previous season's styles marked down up to 50-75% off.

Pre-Owned

Buy gently used wedding shoes from sites like PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com and StillWhite.com. You'll save big on shoes that have only been worn once.

Customization

Purchase a more affordable shoe style you love and customize it to make it your dream pair. Add crystal embellishments, lace ribbons, flowers or other special details.

2021/2022 Trends

Some of the hottest trends for 2021/2022 dream wedding shoes include:

Metallics - Metallic shoes in rose gold, silver, or gold add a glamorous, luxurious touch. Metallic fabrics like satin and lame shine and shimmer as you walk down the aisle.

Clear Vinyl - Clear vinyl shoes are a huge trend, featuring transparent PVC uppers for a modern, minimalist, and sexy look. They show off pretty pedicure colors underneath.

Feathers and Fringe - Whimsical feathers and fringe details adorn many of today's bridal shoes. Ostrich feathers, marabou, silk tassels, and fringe provide a fun, flirty accent.

Ankle Straps - Ankle straps embellished with pearls, rhinestones, or ribbon are very on-trend. The ankle straps provide extra security and support while adding a pretty, feminine detail.

Bold Colors - While white is traditional, colored wedding shoes are trending. Navy blue and blush pink shoes are popular for adding a pop of color.

Choosing Your Dream Wedding Shoes

When it comes to choosing your dream wedding shoes, focus on finding a pair that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident and beautiful on your big day. Consider the venue, the formality of your dress, and your personal preferences. The most important factor is choosing wedding shoes that you feel amazing wearing.

If you want a romantic fairy-tale look, consider delicate shoes with floral details, lace overlays or satin materials. For a formal church wedding, elegant pumps with a mid-heel are a timeless choice. Beach brides may opt for sparkly sandals or casual lace-up shoes.

Don't be afraid to add some unique personality by choosing a bold color like blue or red if it matches your style. Custom additions like embroidery, charms or decorations can make your wedding shoes even more special. Vintage-inspired or velvet textured shoes are also trending now.

No matter what shoe style you select for your wedding, you want to feel confident and stable when walking down the aisle and dancing at the reception. Make sure to wear your shoes around the house before the big day. Breaking them in will help prevent blisters or discomfort.

Your wedding shoes will be in countless photos and memories. By choosing shoes that reflect the essence of your personal style, you'll have one more detail to make this day uniquely you. Focus on how your dream wedding shoes make you feel - beautiful, confident and ready to walk towards your happily ever after.