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1 October 2008, 15:58
Wedding Shoes Tips
Choosing the right wedding shoes can sometimes be a challenge. Getting the perfect match and the right style can be hard to find, and shoes that might look stunning may not always be the most comfortable to wear for several hours! If you buy your wedding gown or bridesmaid dresses from a wedding shop most of these will offer shoes as well, but don't feel pressured however into purchasing shoes from them if you don't like the styles or you feel they are too expensive.
Can you find the perfect match?
Surprisingly your wedding shoes and dress don't have to match exactly. They should, however, compliment your wedding dress and any accessories such as your bouquet and/or wedding bag.
- matching colours: If you want match colours it's a good idea to take a swatch from your dress when you decide to look for shoes. This can help to prevent buying shoes a slight off-shade to what you actually wanted. If you can't find shoes you like in the exact shade to match your dress you could try a metallic shade, or perhaps even a different colour to tie in with the bridesmaids, accessories or flowers. If your dress is patterned, it is best you pick one colour from the pattern and look for wedding shoes in that one colour. Shoes in silk or satin can be dyed to achieve a perfect colour match, but this can be expensive, especially if you are buying shoes for the whole bridal party. If you do choose to have your bridal shoes dyed, it is advisable to also have them treated to prevent the dye running if the shoes get wet.
- matching styles: Bear in mind if you opt for a shorter wedding gown or bridesmaid dresses, the more the shoes will be on display. If the shoes are on full display you may want to have additional features, such as ankle straps or patterns. Consider the time of year - strap shoes may be perfect for summer, while court shoes will be more appropriate for winter. Always remember to match elaborate shoes with a simple wedding dress, and vice versa. Be careful that the detailing on your shoes will not catch or snag the dresses.
- take your shoes to fittings: Try your shoes on with your wedding dress when you go for fittings. This way, if the hemline needs altering it will be the right length with the shoes!! It will also remind you how the two look together!
Beauty or comfort?
When looking for shoes bear in mind as well there may be a few practicalities you might have to consider before choosing which pair is right for you... and your wedding!
- all night long? Heels provide a much better posture than flat shoes. Remember, however, weddings are long days, and you may well be on your feet all day. Pick out wedding shoes with this in mind. If you don't like the idea of being in high heels all day choose a medium to low kitten heel which will be more comfortable - allowing you to dance all night long! It may be best to avoid high heels if you aren't used to wearing them!
- how tall is the groom? This may seem a silly question but if you don't want to be taller than the groom and wearing high heel shoes would be a problem then you may be better choosing low-heeled shoes. Of course, there are plenty of shoes available for the groom with built up heels.
- will you be outside? If you're likely to be outside for a long period of time - perhaps you're having an outdoor ceremony or reception you don't want your shoes sinking into the ground! Remember slim heels and stilettos are more likely to stick in the ground and get dirty than flat shoes, or shoes with a wider heel.
- spare shoes? It's a good idea to bring another pair of shoes you could change into later on in the day. This way, if your wedding shoes really are hurting, at the reception you could change into a more comfortable pair.
Finally, remember whatever shoes you choose to break them in before the big day! This is especially important if you have chosen the more 'traditional' wedding shoes made of satin or other fabric as these often have little ‘give’ in them.
If you have found this information helpful, or wish to add your own tips then feel free to add a comment below.
February 07, 2009 at 1:28pm
Great blog!Thanks!
February 28, 2009 at 11:7am
However nice and good your wedding shoes, the important one is "comfort" for you.... :-)
May 06, 2010 at 3:28pm
Thanks for this useful article.