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Brides-to-be have a laundry list of to-do’s: There’s vendors to book, a bachelorette to plan, a dress to choose, and so much more. But few decisions are as important as choosing a pair of the most comfortable wedding shoes to wear on your big day. The shoes you select should align with your bridal style, but more importantly, they should cushion and stabilize your feet so you feel steady, supported, and blister-free on your wedding day.
Thanks to today’s ever-evolving offerings, you don’t have to sacrifice support for style, either. “The market has evolved aesthetically in the most exciting of ways,” says Carrie Goldberg, founder and creative director of luxury styling firm CLG Creative.” Designers like Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo who have long had standalone bridal offerings were joined by the likes of Aquazzura, Roger Vivier and Rene Caovilla along with newer names like Malone Souliers and Mach & Mach to offer options for the bride that are go far beyond the ages-old satin 85 millimeter pump.”
As for trends, Goldberg notes that “we’re seeing some brides opting for sky-high heels, crystals, feathers and more, while others are after lower heel heights, bridal flats, Grecian-inspired sandals or even wedding-appropriate white sneakers.” Nina Miner, chief creative director of dress shoe brand Nina, has been noticing similar wedding shoe trends among brides — noting that though some crave height, a desire for lower-heeled and flat styles is also still prevalent.
Supportive wedding shoe options now include everything from cushioned satin wedges to chic platform sandals and even orthopedic heels that look, well, far from orthopedic. The demand for comfortable wedding shoes is driving innovation in the bridal footwear category: Just this spring, bridal designer Pnina Tornai collaborated with Naturalizer for a collection of supportive, chic options.
We consulted with New York podiatrist Dr. Jackie Sutera and Silicon Valley podiatrist and E’Mar Italy founder Dr. Najwa Javed to round up 22 comfortable wedding shoes for brides to feel good and look fabulous on their big day. Whether you prefer simple, classic silhouettes or something high-glam, you’re bound to find a pair of the best bridal shoes here.
Table Of Contents
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Women’s Wedding Shoes
The Different Types of Comfortable Wedding Shoes
The Best Wedding Shoes for Different Foot Concerns
Meet the Experts
Meet the Authors
Why Trust Footwear News
Top Comfortable Wedding Shoes of 2023
Alexandre Birman Isabelle Bow Slingback Pumps
Buy Now At Neiman Marcus$625
Best Orthopedic Wedding Shoes
Pnina Tornai for Naturalizer Sevgi Pumps
Buy Now At Nordstrom$275
Best Comfortable Block Heel Wedding Shoes
Sam Edelman Kia Strappy Sandals
Buy Now At Nordstrom$75
Best Comfortable Wedding Shoes With a Low Heel
Nina Nemera Satin Mid-Heel Slingback Pointy-Toe Pump
Buy Now At Nina$45
Larroudé Mini Annie Sandals
Buy Now At Larroudé$315
Something Bleu Elvie Pointed Toe Pumps
Buy Now At Nordstrom$355
Most Comfortable Wedges for Weddings
Acne Studios Badding Wedge Sandals
Buy Now At Shopbop$580
Best Comfortable Slingback Wedding Shoes
Sarah Flint Wedding Parker Sling 50 Shoes
Buy Now At Sarah Flint$695
Manolo Blahnik Carolyne for Danielle Frankel
Buy Now At Net-A-Porter$795
Best Comfortable Wedding Flats
Birdies The Swan Jeweled Gold Sparkle Flats
Buy Now At Birdies$65
Best Comfortable Wedding Mules
Marione Parke Lucia Crystal Stiletto Slide Sandals
Buy Now At Marione Park$348
Best Comfortable Platform Wedding Shoes
Chinese Laundry Platform Heeled Sandals
Buy Now At Amazon$79
Best Comfortable Wedding Sneakers for the Bride
Keds Alley Celebration Sequins Sneakers
Buy Now At Shopbop$80
Badgley Mischka Flame Ankle Strap Sandal
Buy Now At Nordstrom$45
Mach & Mach 65 mm Double Bow Silk Satin Pumps
Buy Now At Mytheresa$637
E’mar Everyday Ankle Strap Pumps
Buy Now At Nordstrom$246
Best Comfortable Satin Wedding Shoes
Sleeper Aristocat Satin Ballet Flats
Buy Now At Sleeper$250
Best Comfortable Designer Wedding Shoes
Jimmy Choo Aurielle 65 Pointed Pumps
Buy Now At Jimmy CHOO$895
Loeffler Randall Camellia Bow High Heel Sandals
Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue$395
Best Comfortable Beach Wedding Shoes
Stuart Weitzman Goldie Pearly Stud Jelly Sandals
Buy Now At Neiman Marcus$150
Best Comfortable Clear Heels for Weddings
Good American Cinder-F*cking-Rella Pumps
Buy Now At Good American$195
Bella Belle Belle by Joy Proctor Wedding Booties
Buy Now At Bella Belle$419
Alexandre Birman Isabelle Bow Slingback Pumps
Size range: European 35 to 42
Heel height: 3.4 inches
Colorways available:
Materials:Leather; rubber heel patch
$625Buy Now At Neiman Marcus
Alexandre Birman is a celebrity-approved, iconic brand: Gisele Bundchen wore a custom pair while strutting at the Rio Olympic Games Opening Ceremony in 2016. But catwalk experience is optional with the Isabelle Bow Slingback Pumps. The stiletto heel widens at the base for stable footing when you walk down the aisle, and the slingback style is a trending silhouette. The oversized, airy bow adds the perfect pop of bridal elegance.
Best Orthopedic Wedding Shoes
Pnina Tornai for Naturalizer Sevgi Pumps
Size range: 5 to 11, including half sizes
Heel height: 3.25 inches
Colorways available: 1
Materials: Satin upper and non-slip outsole
$275Buy Now At Nordstrom
Bridal designer Pnina Tornai and heritage shoe brand Naturalizer recently joined forces to create a line of comfortable wedding shoes that lend style and support with every step you take on your big day. The Sevgi pumps feature Naturalizer’s Contour+ Comfort technology with open-cell foam cushioning that sculpts to your feet, plus Pnina’s bridal style prowess, evident in the jewel-embellished vamp. The 3-inch-tall heel height and supportive footbed makes these a plantar fasciitis-friendly choice.
What reviewers say: “Dream wedding shoes — they’re beautiful and elegant! If you have a high arch like me the cross section may put a little pressure on your foot but it was no biggie to me. I would also recommend ordering a half size down – I’m typically an 8 in Naturalizer and I had to order a 7.5 in these.”
Best Comfortable Block Heel Wedding Shoes
Sam Edelman Kia Strappy Sandals
Size range:4 to 14
Heel height:3.5 inches
Colorways available: 24
Materials:Leather, suede, fabric, and patent leather options
On Sale 46% off
$75Buy Now At Nordstrom
$100Buy Now At ShopBop
$83Buy Now At Amazon
Sam Edelman is a trusted brand in footwear that’s been around for 40 years. These Kia Strappy Sandals are so popular, they’re now available in a whopping 23 colorways and in four different texture options, including leather, patent leather, suede, and fabric. The Gold Leaf colorway is a great choice for brides looking for comfortable gold wedding shoes, but you can also shop cream and powder blue options. The chunky block heel is ideal for those seeking out stability, or for grassy garden weddings.
What reviewers say: “I love Sam Edelman shoes in general, that’s all I ever buy. I needed some white shoes for a wedding and when I saw these I swear my heart skipped a beat. They’re comfortable like all of his shoes, and so beautiful on the feet. They truly elevate my outfits. The unique heel is STUNNING.”
Best Comfortable Wedding Shoes With a Low Heel
Nina Nemera Satin Mid-Heel Slingback Pointy-Toe Pump
Size range: 5 to 11
Heel height: 2.5 inches
Colorways available: Seven
Materials: Satin upper and synthetic lining
On Sale 49% off
$45Buy Now At Nina
Brides looking to test the waters with stilettos will find a good companion in a low-heeled option, like this elegant satin pair from Nina. The subtle heel is just 2.5 inches tall, and like every pair of Nina shoes, these are made with a custom last to ensure you get a closer fit. Additionally, these have light padding to provide some comfort on the toes, plus a stretchy heel strap that won’t dig into your ankle or cause blisters. Also complete with chic crossover details at the front, these shoes are equal parts comfortable and stylish.
Larroudé Mini Annie Sandals
Size range:5 to 11, including half sizes
Heel height:1.8 inches
Colorways available:2
Materials:Leather
$315Buy Now At Larroudé
$315Buy Now At Anthropologie
Fully lined with memory foam, these Larroudé Mini Annie Sandals will comfort the soles of your feet however long you wear them. Their spacious construction makes them a great pair of shoes for wide feet, plus the open round toe allows plenty of room for bunions. Available in gold and ivory tones, you can’t go wrong with this subtle but chic pair of sandals for your wedding day.
Something Bleu Elvie Pointed Toe Pumps
Size range:6 to 10
Heel height:2.75 inches
Colorways available: 2
Materials:Leather insole; fabric upper
$355Buy Now At Nordstrom
If simple white or gold wedding shoes aren’t your thing; consider these Something Bleu Elvie Pointed Toe Pumps. The Italian-made, mule-style shoes are covered in intricate floral fabric with vintage appeal, available in baby blue and ivory colorways. The square vamp adds a structural element to the textural design, and an ethereal ribbon tie tops off the style with femininity.
What reviewers say: “Love these. Bought them for my wedding and wore them all day, no discomfort. I did end up buying a half size larger than normal. These are so incredibly beautiful and well made, definitely a statement shoe. The ribbon tie is also flexible so you can tighten if you’d like.”
Most Comfortable Wedges for Weddings
Acne Studios Badding Wedge Sandals
Size range: European 35 to 41
Heel height: 3 inches
Colorways available:1
Materials:Satin
$580Buy Now At Shopbop
$580Buy Now at Mytheresa
For those who want height with maximum comfort, these Acne Studios wedge sandals are a foolproof — and fashionable — wedding shoe choice. Not only is the satin material extra soft, but the wedge-style construction distributes weight across the sole of your foot, providing relief for those with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or bunions. The large floral appliqué will have all eyes on you — as they should be on your wedding day.
Best Comfortable Slingback Wedding Shoes
Sarah Flint Wedding Parker Sling 50 Shoes
Size range: 4 to 13, including half sizes
Heel height: Two inches
Colorways available: White
Materials: Satin, mesh, and handmade nappa leather flower embellishments
$695Buy Now At Sarah Flint
Known for its Italian-made pumps, flats, sandals and boots beloved by celebrities like Amal Clooney and Meghan Markle, Sarah Flint launched a bridal line back in 2018 and continues to update it regularly with stunning, comfort-driven offerings. Case in point: The Wedding Parker Sling 50. Made with great attention to detail, the Wedding Parker Sling 50 has a pointed-toe style that includes a mesh and satin upper that’s water-resistant (so you don’t have to fear any unexpected spills or showers from ruining your look). The shoe also features handmade leather floral appliqués for an elegant touch. For support, the style boasts an adjustable slingback strap, six millimeters of extra padding underfoot and the brand’s signature anatomical footbed done in a dainty blue color. Topped off with a grippy rubber forefoot and manageable block heel, these stunning slingbacks can easily be worn from the aisle to the dance floor — no shoe change required.
Manolo Blahnik Carolyne for Danielle Frankel
Size range: European 35 to 41, including half sizes
Heel height: 2 inches
Materials: Leather outsole and lining
$795Buy Now At Net-A-Porter
“The Carolyne by Manolo Blahnik is, without a doubt, the most comfortable wedding shoe,” Goldberg says. “We have enough brides who have worn them to prove it!” Made in partnership with New York-based bridal designer Danielle Frankel, this smooth slingback pump has a manageable three-inch heel that’s slightly flared for extra eye-catching detail. “I love this collaboration for elevated updates to go-to styles,” Goldberg adds, calling out other standout looks in the line like an exclusive crystal link ankle strap pair and option done in Frankel’s signature print.
Best Comfortable Wedding Flats
Birdies The Swan Jeweled Gold Sparkle Flats
Size range: 5 to 12, including half sizes
Colorways available: 14
Materials:No-slip rubber sole and satin lining
$65Buy Now At Birdies
We get it — for some brides, the thought of wearing heels on the big day is just as unpleasant as the idea of a wardrobe malfunction just minutes before walking down the aisle. Thanks to burgeoning flats brand Birdies, you can look ultra-glam while enjoying top-notch comfort, too. These editor-approved slides from the label give us major Great Gatsby vibes with their all-over glitter finish and contrasting crystal accents formed into the prettiest brooch-like design. (For something a little less blingy, you can try the Swan featuring a velvet upper and bracelet-like strap across the vamp). Underfoot, you get the brand’s silky, quilted footbed and seven layers of cushioning. The only drawback? This writer found the shoe’s vamp to be a bit low for superb lockdown, but people with narrower feet may not find this to be an issue.
What reviewers say: “You can wear them immediately because they feel like slippers. They look beautiful and are so comfortable.”
Best Comfortable Wedding Mules
Marione Parke Lucia Crystal Stiletto Slide Sandals
Size range: European 35 to 43, including half sizes
Heel height: 3.3 inches
Colorways available: 3
Materials: Nappa leathe
On Sale 50% off
$348Buy Now At Marione Park
Founded by former podiatric surgeon Marione Parke, this namesake Italian-made label is one to keep on your radar for ultra-comfortable heels. Although these styles are on the pricier end, they achieve that often elusive feat of offering sneaker-like support in chic, minimalist silhouettes. It’s all thanks to the brand’s trademarked Triple I insole, which, informed by Parke’s knowledge of foot biomechanics, works to enhance stability, reduce pressure on the forefoot and adapt to your feet’s natural curve over time with proprietary cushioning. These standout suede mules from the brand’s bridal collection not only feature the coveted tech, but also two thick front straps for security and a manageable 3.3-inch stiletto heel. A glittering front buckle detail add to their Instagram-worthy effect. Grab them in classic white, light blue or even black for something bold and unexpected.
Best Comfortable Platform Wedding Shoes
Chinese Laundry Platform Heeled Sandals
Size range: 5 to 11, including half sizes
Heel height: Four inches
Colorways available: 24
Materials: Leather or suede, depending on the style
$79Buy Now At Amazon
Platform boots and heels are all the rage right now, so opting for a pair on your big day ensures you’ll be one of the trendiest brides around. We’re obsessed with this sandal option from affordable brand Chinese Laundry, which comes in pretty cream and metallic colorways that will pop when peeking out from underneath any wedding day attire. In addition to a thick, stabilizing platform, it features a just under four-inch block heel — which customers call the perfect height, especially for taller women — and adjustable ankle strap for easier strides. Some shoppers even rave they comfortably wore these for hours at their wedding, without incurring a single blister.
What reviewers say: “Wore these shoes last minute for my wedding and they were SO comfortable; I had them on for about 4.5 to 5 hours with no problem. Also wore them as a wedding guest and were super comfy as well. Definitely investing in more colors because they’re a great, go-to shoe you can dress up or down!”
Best Comfortable Wedding Sneakers for the Bride
Keds Alley Celebration Sequins Sneakers
Size range: 5 to 11, including half sizes
Colorways available: One
Materials: Twill upper, soft canvas lining, and rubber sole
$80Buy Now At Shopbop
$50Buy Now At Amazon
Also great for brides who fall into the anti-heel-wearing category are these glittering Keds Alley Celebration Sequins Sneakers. The style offers a ceremony-ready spin on Keds classic court shoe, done in sequin-covered twill upper with soft, silky white ribbon laces. The platform rubber sole also gives you a height boost, which is an obvious plus, and the cushioned Softerra footbed will keep your feet comfy as can be. If you’re not quite feeling the vibe of wearing these comfortable women’s sneakers to walk down the aisle, save them for dancing the night away at the reception (we promise you won’t regret it).
What reviewers say:“Here comes the bride! These shoes are so cute and very well made.”
Badgley Mischka Flame Ankle Strap Sandal
Size range:5 to 11, including half sizes
Heel height: 3.5 inches
Colorways available: Three
Materials: Textile upper, faux pearl embellishments, and leather sole
$45Buy Now At Nordstrom
$245Buy Now At Neiman Marcus
Badgley Mischka makes some of the most popular wedding shoes that not only look expensive, but feel comfortable underfoot. This pearl-adorned sandal is on trend for the season, and the square footbed lets your toes breathe without feeling cramped. Offered in rose, cream, and powder blue colorways, you have plenty of options to choose from. They’re a feminine and fun choice for those seeking a classic bridal look.
Mach & Mach 65 mm Double Bow Silk Satin Pumps
Size range:5 to 11.5, including half sizes
Heel height: 2.5 inches
Colorways available:3
Materials:Satin and leather
On Sale 30% off
$637Buy Now At Mytheresa
Barbiecore shoes are having a moment, and there’s no reason you can’t embrace the feminine aesthetic on your big day with these . “This style has a lower heel height, but still feels like that special, statement after-party shoe all brides have their eyes on,” Goldberg says. Courtesy of the It-brand you’ve likely been seeing all over Instagram, these 2.5-inch-tallheels are dressed in luxe satin with coveted details like the brand’s signature crystal-embossed double front bow detail. The adjustable ankle strap is not only further embellished with crystals but also should wrap around the ankle twice for extra support. Plus, it comes in half sizes to help you find your perfect fit.
E’mar Everyday Ankle Strap Pumps
Size range:5 to 11
Heel height: 1 inch
Colorways available: Two
Materials: Leather and carbon fiber inlay
$246Buy Now At Nordstrom
Another stellar brand founded by a foot and ankle surgeon, E’mar was created in 2020 with a mission to offer high-quality, made-in-Italy heels that prioritize foot health. The result is a series of elegant sandals, boots and pumps created with biomechanically-designed arch inclines to redistribute pressure away from the ball of foot and promote proper alignment. Many of the brand’s styles are fit for weddings, too, including this ivory-colored low block-heel pump. In addition to featuring the brand’s signature inclines, it has an anti-sip footbed (rare for a pair of heels!) with dual-layer memory foam for stability and cushioning, as well as an ultra-thin carbon fiber inlay that wraps around the foot for additional anatomical support. And the look of the shoe is just as intriguing, as it’s dressed in smooth leather and features an eye-catching mesh lattice pattern on the sides. A roomy square toe and adjustable ankle wrap win on both the style and function fronts, making this one of the most wearable pairs, hands-down, on our list.
Best Comfortable Satin Wedding Shoes
Sleeper Aristocat Satin Ballet Flats
Size range: European 36 to 42
Colorways available: One
Materials: Silk and viscose upper; leather and faux suede lining
$250Buy Now At Sleeper
In case you didn’t already know, beloved nightwear-loungewear brand Sleeper also carries bridal gear. For its spring ’22 wedding collection, the brand debuted the daintiest Mary Jane flats that are ideal for more casual brides or post-ceremony festivities. Almost akin to ballet slippers, they’re done in delicate satin with a large detachable bow for extra oomph — a detail that’s set to be huge year. Priced at $250, the luxe style also boasts squared off toe boxes that look sleek while allowing for more wiggle room. (To note, Sleeper’s factory is based in Kyiv, Ukraine. While war rages on in the country, the brand’s co-founders plan to cross the border to Istanbul, where they aim to help relocate employees and re-start production to fulfill orders for the new season, according to a recent interview with Vogue.)
Best Comfortable Designer Wedding Shoes
Jimmy Choo Aurielle 65 Pointed Pumps
Size range: European 34 to 43
Heel height: 2.6 inches
Colorways available: Two
Materials:Patent leather with pearl and crystal embellishments
$895Buy Now At Jimmy CHOO
$895Buy Now At Neiman Marcus
Any bride desiring a lofty-yet-comfortable designer sandal for their nuptials should look no further than Jimmy Choo’s Aurielle pumps. Although these do lack cushioning, their 2.6-inch heel is a stable height for those with plantar fasciitis, and the open-top design gives plenty of breathing room for those with high arches. Complete with a pointed toe, sleek patent leather finish, and pearl embellishments, these are fitting for a black tie ceremony.
What reviewers say: I bought these for a wedding. They were comfortable enough to dance all night without issue. And they’re super cute. They run a bit small because of the pointed toe, so if you’re between sizes go with the size up.
Loeffler Randall Camellia Bow High Heel Sandals
Size range: 5 to 12, including half sizes
Heel height: 3.5 inches
Colorways available: Seven
Materials: Polyester upper, faux leather outsole
$395Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue
$395Buy Now At Nordstrom
A sturdy 3.5-inch block heel and adjustable ankle strap add stability to these lovely bow-embellished sandals from Loeffler Randall. Meanwhile, a pleated finish and signature knotted detail offer a touch of texture when peeking out from underneath your wedding day attire. The footbeds run narrow, so we suggest you size up half a size for your perfect fit.
What reviewers say: “LOVE LOVE LOVE! I found my new heel height that’s comfortable in addition to stylish!!!! The color is dreamy and goes with some many colors which makes it very versatile and worth the price point! I intend to order this shoe in another color very soon.”
Best Comfortable Beach Wedding Shoes
Stuart Weitzman Goldie Pearly Stud Jelly Sandals
Sizes range:5 to 12
Heel height: 0.2 inches
Colorways available: 3
Materials:Rubber with pearl embellishments
$150Buy Now At Neiman Marcus
Few shoes are more fitting for a beach wedding than a classic thong sandal, and this pair from iconic American brand Stuart Weitzman hits high marks in our book. The jelly sandal construction makes these super flexible, which is ideal for traversing any uneven plots of sand. Still, these look elegant via an opaque finish and pearl studded accents along the front strap. The open-sided silhouette is also a great option for people with bunions, and an adjustable ankle strap helps you further customize the fit.
What reviewers say: “This shoe is very well made. It’s beautiful and goes with so much. It’s very feminine. I would definitely recommend.”
Best Comfortable Clear Heels for Weddings
Good American Cinder-F*cking-Rella Pumps
Size range: 4 to 14
Heel height:4.33 inches
Colorways available: One
Materials: Lucite
$195Buy Now At Good American
Who doesn’t want to feel like a princess on their special day? Good American makes these glass-slipper inspired pumps that are designed to fit like a glove. Like the rest of the brand’s offerings, this embellished lucite style is unique in that it comes in extended widths and is available in up to a size 14, making it one of the most size-inclusive wedding-ready shoes on the market. Despite its 4.33-inch heel, the shoe is crafted to provide all-day comfort with a signature Cloud Sole. One thing to note is that if you have sweaty feet, you might want to skip these, as they will likely trap in (and reveal) any moisture. Customers also note that the standard widths fit narrow, so make sure to go up a half size if you do end up going for this option.
What reviewers say: “Using these as my wedding shoes. I love them so much. After reading the reviews, I sized up. Usually a 12, purchased a 14 and they fit perfectly.”
Bella Belle Belle by Joy Proctor Wedding Booties
Size range: 6 to 11, including half sizes
Heel height:4 inches
Colorways available: One
Materials:Silk and mesh upper; leather sole
$419Buy Now At Bella Belle
Looking for a truly unique alternative to classic pumps and sandals? Go for some bridal booties, like this stunning peep-toe pair from bridal footwear brand Bella Belle. Its delicate mesh upper is adorned with silk and tulle floral appliqués and hand-beaded with pearls and beads, making for a truly wispy look that’s also breathable enough to wear in spring and summer. To stave off foot pain, a sleek four-inch heel is offset by heavy padding in the footbed. Plus, these non-traditional wedding shoes have a back zipper for easy on and off and subtle adjustable strap at the ankle to help you get the best fit possible.
What reviewers say: “Dream wedding shoes. I bought these before I even bought my dress and felt like a princess but not one who would lose her shoes! Wore them all day without any soreness and worn them since to other weddings.”
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Women’s Wedding Shoes
- Your ceremony’s formality: “An espadrille may be tempting for a beach wedding, but it reads quite casual,” Goldberg says. “Save it for your honeymoon unless it’s truly hidden underneath the gown.”
- Any wardrobe changes you may have on your big day:If you plan to have multiple outfit swaps, Goldberg recommends starting with a heel that’s “delicate, complementary to the gown and comfortable to stand in, followed by the ultimate party heel” for dancing the night away at the reception. “Some brides like to have a second heel to change into with a bit more support, ideally with a platform and an ankle strap, and most like to end the night in a low-heeled mule or slipper, or in a cute sneaker for dancing that complements their last look of the night,” she notes.
- The material of your wedding apparel:“Keep in mind crystal details on shoes can snag delicate silks and tulles,” Goldberg says, so you may want to avoid embellished styles if your dress, jumpsuit or skirt falls into this category.
- The color of your wedding apparel:“Look out for various shades of white and ivory available for shoes,” Golderg advises. “You want to make sure your shoe isn’t drastically whiter or warmer than the tone of your gown.” With blue, champagne or metallic-toned shoes, you have a lot more versatility.
- The length of your gown: “As a styling trick, long wedding gowns with trains typically cover most of the shoe, so focus on the toe box first and foremost,” Goldberg says. “Save the higher heels for moments that matter, like your looks with shorter hemlines.”
The Different Types of Comfortable Wedding Shoes
- Sandals: Cute sandals are some of the most popular types of bridal shoes and are especially great for warm-weather nuptials. Typically, the most comfortable shoes feature block heels and supportive ankle strap details.
- Pumps: Classic brides will gravitate towards closed-toe heels, or pumps, offered in simple monochromatic versions to glitzy styles.
- Stiletto heels: A thin heel isn’t typically synonymous with comfort, as it provides little surface area to distribute your body weight across. But now, stilettos made with ample cushioning and innovative tech like anatomically contoured footbeds can help shoppers more comfortably wear thin-heeled styles for extended periods of time.
- Block heels: “Prior to Covid-19, block-heel wedding shoes were already enjoying strong sales at retail,” Miner says. “Besides being trend-right, they offer a bit more stability and comfort than a slender heel might.” These styles are also ideal for outdoor and beach weddings, as they won’t sink into the ground.
- Flats: If you don’t want to go the heel route, wedding flats offer a completely flat sole (that’s also great for outdoor weddings) and are often crafted in luxe materials with standout embellishments to make them look dressier. While flats naturally won’t put pressure on the balls of feet like heels do, it’s still important they have some cushioning underfoot to ward off foot fatigue. A
- Wedges: Wedges offer the lift of stilettos but with additional support, as their sole connects from the front of the shoe to the raised heel at the rear.
- Platforms: Like wedges, platform wedding shoes are ideal for brides who crave a marriage of height and comfort with their footwear. The 70s-inspired silhouettes are defined by a front platform that helps redistribute pressure at the ball of the foot where impact is most concentrated, and are often accompanied by tall, thick heels to boost support. For these reasons, Miner notes she’s seen a growing number of Nina customers choose the brand’s towering platform styles.
- Booties: Brides who stray away from tradition will love bridal booties. These come in everything from elegant lace designs to sleek leather, sparkling pairs and even cowboy-inspired options that are perfect to wear if you’re going for a western theme with your wedding. These also offer more structural support than classic pumps and sandals, as they typically encase most of (if not all) the entire foot.
- Mules: These breezy options are great for warm-weather nuptials and are easy to slip when you’re ready to walk down the aisle. They come in both flat and heeled versions. Goldberg tells us she often styles pointed-toe mules when working with lower heel heights, as they “keep the look elegant and ladylike without brides having to sport a five-inch stiletto and can add some edge to super-feminine dresses.”
- The best wedding shoes for plantar fasciitis:Dr. Javed recommends that people with plantar fasciitis avoid platform styles, as these individuals “will usually find relief and reduction in symptoms when wearing shoes with a slight heel drop.” She says to look for “shoes with at least two inches of elevation to help reduce the pull of the Achilles, which is connected to the plantar fascial band.” For beach weddings, there are plenty of sandals for plantar fasciitis to choose from.
- The best wedding shoes for bunions:To prevent rubbing, avoid narrow and pointy boxes. “Instead, opt for a rounder or square toe box,” says Dr. Sutera. Also look for shoes that feature some stretch in the upper, as this makes the less constricting on your feet. Dr. Javed says that people with bunions should go for pairs with no more than two inches of heel elevation.
- The best wedding shoes for high arches: Those with high arches may experience more pressure on the ball of the foot than those with flat feet, because of weight distribution. To prevent additional pressure, look for heels no taller than 2.5 inches high. Alternatively, choose a pair of comfortable women’s flats that feature arch support to stabilize your feet.
- The best wedding shoes for wide feet:Similarly to bunions, people seeking shoes for wide feet should prioritize a rounded or square toe box. According to Dr. Sutera, a wider toe box also leaves room for your feet to expand and swell throughout the day. Seek out shoes available in wide-width options if possible.
- The best wedding shoes for flat feet:“Those with flat feet or fallen arches should choose options with a heel that’s at least one-inch tall, but no more than three-inches tall for optimal midfoot support,” says Dr. Javed.
Meet the Experts
Carrie Goldberg isthe founder and creative director CLG Creative, a creative consulting agency and luxury styling firm with a focus on everyday and bridal fashion. She was formerly the weddings and travel director at HarpersBAZAAR.com, where she oversaw the site’s Bride channel and travel and dining content and styled fashion and bridal editorials for BAZAAR.com.
Nina Miner is the chief creative director of Nina shoes, a brand that has specialized in comfort-driven dress shoes since 1953 (the brand was created by Nina’s father and uncle and named after her). The company offers a line of wedding-ready shoes for the bride, mother of the bride and bridesmaids, complete with comfort features like lightly padded footbeds and available in wide-width options.
Dr. Jacqueline Sutera is a New York-based podiatrist specializing in the prevention and treatment of foot pathology. She is a Vionic Innovation Lab member, as well as a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons and a member and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association and the New York State Podiatric Medical Society.
Dr. Najwa Javed is a Silicon-Valley based podiatrist and founder of E’mar Italy, a luxury heels brand focused on creating wearable elevated styles. Her shoes all feature a patent-pending inlay that uses biomechanically-designed arch inclines to redistribute pressure, and many are designed to be comfortable wedding or everyday heels.
Meet the Authors
Sam Peters is the senior style commerce editor at Fairchild Media Group (FMG). She previously oversaw Footwear News’ shopping vertical for three years, where she became an expert on the latest footwear trends and innovations by testing and reviewing shoes in a wide range of categories — from athletic to streetwear styles. Prior to her role at FMG, she has written about wedding trends, including bridal fashion for Bridal Guide. Peters penned the original version of this comfortable wedding shoes story.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She’s spent over five years researching, reporting on, and writing about the beauty and wellness industries for publications like Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. Her experience at Martha Stewart Weddings involved daily research and reporting on wedding trends. Sullivan wrote the 2023 update of this comfortable wedding shoes shopping guide, adding the latest comfortable bridal shoes worthy of our list, plus additional tips on choosing the right pair for your big day.
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.Learn more about us here.
