On the long list of accessories to shop for in order to complete your wedding day ensemble, finding the perfect bridal footwear to go with your gorgeous gown is a top priority!
Beyond looking good, there are many things to consider. From style and heel height down to the comfort level. When looking for a pair, you want something that can carry you from the aisle and out on your reception’s dance floor without any difficulty…
Whatever your priorities might be, at the end of the day, your bridal footwear has a major role to fulfil. You have to like them, yes, but you also have to want to wear them for a long period of time. Usually a solid, 15-plus hour day (think about that for a moment).
So how do you figure out what type of bridal shoe is best for you? Here are our best tips for finding your glass slipper moment!
Buy your dress first!
Even if you’ve stumbled upon the shoes of your dreams, hold off from purchasing them if you haven’t yet found the wedding dress to match. You want your bridal footwear to complement your dress in every aspect! From style, colour, down to every last detail and embellishment. Observe the elements of your dress and find shoes that would best compliment it. A total mix match can make or break your overall look…
Your shoes can be a major statement accessory; adding colour, glitz, glam, whimsy, romance, or simply a dose of modern elegance.
Think of your venue…
The location of your wedding may be far off your mind when you’re browsing through an extensive collection of bridal shoes. But you’ll need to bear it in mind if you want to wear something that will be both fashionable and functional on your big day! Just as you check the weather day-to-day to make sure you’re wearing the appropriate footwear each day, why would your wedding day be any different?
An outdoor wedding may not be best for heels, after all there’s no worse feeling than your heel slowly sinking into the mud!
Comfort first!
When seeking your bridal look, you ideally want to be a more elevated version of your everyday self. So consider your day-to-day style and try to find ways to incorporate that to your ensemble.
If you’re one of those people who can rock a four-inch stiletto without any difficulty, then wearing it on the day of your wedding won’t be a problem. Your first consideration should be heel height. The higher the heel, the more pressure on the ball of your foot. A low-to-mid-height heel and even a chunkier heel will keep you standing and dancing comfortably that much longer.
However, if you’re more of a flats lover, then it’s best to look for a pair that can offer both comfort and style. There are plenty of gorgeous bridal flats out there, just waiting for you to discover them! Think a gorgeous pair of pumps, or a glittered pair of converse, maybe even a colourful pair of Dr Martens, as long as you’re comfortable that is all that matters…
After all, your shoes will determine how you’ll fare during the busy day. You want to be in something that you can walk in, without fear of tripping down the aisle, or not being able to dance at your reception due to aching feet. If your feet are in so much pain that you need to take your shoes off in order to enjoy yourself… well, what’s the point of having them? On a day when you’ll likely be on your feet for twice as long as you normally would be (if not three or four times), you need comfortable shoes!
Bring them to your fittings!
Our best tip for you when on the hunt for the bridal look of your dreams, our best advice would be to bring your shoes with you to any fittings you have!
Whether you’re thinking of splashing out and going for multiple pairs of shoes, or just the one pair; bringing your shoes to fittings is the best way for both you and your designer to see what you will look like on the big day. The overall final product, if you will.
It is also helpful to pay attention to any detailing or embellishments in your gown that could be echoed in your bridal footwear. As well as specific materials (lace, satin, tulle, etc.) that could be matched or added and discussed in fittings.
Now, if you’ve skipped step one, you already bought a pair long before you went dress shopping… It will be best to bring them with you when you’re on the hunt for the perfect dress. It may help to narrow down your search, consider a length or style that will best suit your overall dream look.
Express yourself…
Like every other style decision you make for your big day, the colour and style of shoes you’ll ultimately wear will depend on what kind of bride you are. Classic and traditional brides will likely be drawn to clean white, champagne, ivory, and nude tones. But if a little bit of footwear flair intrigues you, don’t be afraid go outside the box in the colour department. Here at Corsetry & Couture love to see a flash of colour going down the aisle.
Don’t be afraid to express yourself on your wedding day, you’re going to be marrying the person that you love so be excited and celebrate that! There is absolutely no pressure to conform on your special day, so why not have it your way!