The Must-Have Guide to Choosing the Best Designer Wedding Shoes:
Italian-American Photographer Living in Lake Como SPECIALIZING IN FILM AND DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY, AS WELL AS SUPER8 🦢
It will forever be one of my favorite parts of any wedding day – the fashion. You have so much opportunity to embrace your style with every fashion choice you make for your wedding day.
While the wedding dress designer you choose is one of the most important pieces of wedding day fashion, it’s not the only piece. You can’t forget the finishing touches!
We’ve created a must-have guide to choosing the best designer wedding shoes to go along with your style for this incredible milestone. From helping you select the style you’re looking for to sharing my favorite bridal shoe designers, this guide has everything you need for shopping for this bridal accessory.
The Most Popular Designer Wedding Shoe Styles:
Just like with every other part of wedding planning, there is an entire dictionary of language when it comes to bridal shoes.
So let’s break down the most popular designer wedding shoe styles so you can start narrowing down the type you want:
Stilettos
If you close your eyes and imagine a sky-high, thin heel, you’re likely picturing a pair of stilettos. They’re generally one of the higher heel options and can be found in a height anywhere between 2 inches to 12 inches.
There’s nothing quite like the look of a stiletto. It’s perfect if you’re looking to bring the drama to your wedding day attire. I always recommend them if brides are already experienced with wearing heels or if brides are comfortable with changing shoes later in the day.
Pros of This Bridal Shoe Style:
- They bring plenty of drama and style to any wedding outfit
- They add additional height, which may be important depending on your dress
- They instantly create a toned physique
Cons of This Bridal Shoe Style:
- The thin heels can make it more difficult to balance
- The shape of the heels can create pressure on your feet, which may not be comfortable all day
- Thin heels aren’t always a great choice for outdoor venues
- It may be more difficult to dance the night away in stilettos
Block Heels
If you love the look of traditional heels, but you’re worried about stability or walking on soft ground, then a block heel is a perfect choice. The blocky width of the heel gives extra support to help you balance in even the most uneven or outdoorsy terrains.
These are also a great option if you’re sure you want to wear heels on your wedding day, but you’re not as experienced at wearing them in general.
Pros of This Bridal Shoe Style:
- The block heel adds extra stability and balance
- You still get the look of a traditional heel
- The heels add height to your look
- They’re outdoor venue friendly
Cons of This Bridal Shoe Style:
- They’re still a heel which can eventually hurt after hours of wearing them
Strappy Heels or Sandals
Strappy heels or sandals have been one of the most popular bridal shoe styles for years, especially as summer wedding shoes.
Because they’re so popular, you can easily find them in a variety of styles, heights, and heel widths.
Pros of This Bridal Shoe Style:
- They come in a variety of styles, heights, and widths
- They add a level of comfort by allowing your feet to receive airflow
Cons of This Bridal Shoe Style:
- Heat causes feet to swell, which can make them more uncomfortable in the summertime. Just be sure to break them in!
- They’re not ideal as winter wedding shoes because they can make your feet colder
Flats
Many brides opt not to wear heels at all. Instead, flats and even some stylish sneakers have become more popular in recent years.
If you want to make sure you have the ultimate comfort, then a pair of beautiful flats for your wedding is a great option. You won’t have to worry about balancing on heels, and they’re likely a fantastic choice for indoor or outdoor venues in any kind of terrain.
If you do want to wear heels, but you’re not sold on the idea of wearing them all day, then think about having a pair of flats to change into for the reception!
Pros of This Bridal Shoe Style:
- You don’t have to balance on a heel
- They don’t add any pressure to your feet, keeping you more comfortable
- They’re suitable for indoor and outdoor venues
- They’re good on any terrain type
- You can wear them for any seasonal wedding
Cons of This Bridal Shoe Style:
- You may not get the added drama of a beautiful pair of heels
- They don’t add any height, which may be necessary for some wedding dresses
How to Choose the Best Designer Wedding Shoes:
No matter what style you choose for your wedding shoes, you’ll want to consider several things before deciding on the perfect pair.
As you go shopping, keep these things in mind:
Think of Your Heel Tolerance
If you don’t normally wear heels, then you’ll want to consider the height of your bridal shoes. Don’t underestimate how much you’ll be on your feet throughout the entire day, and how quickly that can impact your feet.
Unless you’re planning to really break in your shoes (we recommend doing that regardless!) and wearing them for hours on end to get comfortable in them, we suggest staying relatively conservative with your heel height.
Decide If You’re Looking for Open-Toed or Close-Toed Shoes
For practically any type of wedding shoe you choose, you’ll have your choice of open-toed or close-toed options.
Think about where you’re having the ceremony and reception. Consider the season of your wedding. Think about any fun wedding day activities you’re planning. Will any of those impact you if you’re wearing either open-toed or close-toed shoes?
Be Honest About Your Comfort
As much as I love fashion, I also know that nothing is more important than your comfort on your wedding day. That’s especially the case when it comes to your wedding photos!
If you’re uncomfortable all day, it will be much harder to grin through any sort of discomfort or pain. So while you might find a gorgeous pair of wedding shoes, if they’re too uncomfortable when you try them on, it’s best to skip those and find a different pair!
Consider Your Venue and/or Ceremony and Reception Location
Sometimes, when we’re out shopping for the perfect pair of wedding shoes, we get caught up in the styles and we forget to think about the wedding location.
But, trust me, you do not want to wear stilettos during a sandy beach wedding ceremony. And there’s nothing quite as aggravating as wearing stilettos through soft grass after a fresh summer rainstorm.
As you’re choosing your designer wedding shoes, be sure to think about where you’re having your ceremony and reception. Will it be inside with nice, even footing? Will it be outside on soft grass or sand? Do you have to walk on historic cobblestone roads to get from one place to the next?
Consider all of those things before you select your bridal shoes!
Think About the Season
Summer wedding shoes tend to look a lot different than winter wedding shoes. Part of that is strictly for comfort. The other part is just what makes sense for hotter or colder months.
Unless you’re having a destination wedding in a tropical place, you may not want to have strappy sandals for your winter wedding shoes.
Try Them On First
I know, I know. It’s so easy to go shopping online, order something, and call it a day. But when it comes to your wedding shoes, trying them on first is a must. You have to know what they feel like to walk in them before you purchase them.
When you do try them on, think about how they fit. Do your toes scrunch up to the end of the toe box? Do they rub the sides of your feet? Are they adding extra pressure to the balls of your feet when you’re standing?
Pay attention to those things, and then think about whether or not it’s realistic for you to wear them for an extended period.
Break Them In!
As you’re trying them on, just be sure you keep in mind that they will break in (if you allow them to). So some wedding shoes that rub your feet the wrong way may loosen as you wear them.
The key is to spend time in them before the wedding. That way, on your wedding day, you won’t have to worry about blisters or sores.
Don’t Forget Your Dress and Other Accessories
Part of choosing your wedding shoes involves pairing them with your wedding dress and other accessories.
Allow your dress to help you decide the best bridal shoe option! Is your gown a statement piece? If so, maybe choose a shoe that doesn’t try to steal the spotlight.
Do you have a simple, classic wedding dress? Then maybe add a little more excitement and drama with an embellished shoe!
What Color Wedding Shoes Should You Wear?
As we all know, traditionally, the wedding dress is some form of white. That may be ivory, cream, eggshell, or something in between.
But there’s not a “traditional” hue when it comes to the color of your wedding shoes. And even if there was, I would probably be one of the first people to tell you to not follow tradition!
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when choosing your wedding shoe color. Opt for a blue shade as your “something blue.” Or go with a green satin to add intensity to your attire. Find a black stiletto to bring the drama. Choose light pink for a romantic, ethereal aesthetic. Or stick with white to create a monochromatic ensemble.
There are no rules when it comes to what color wedding shoes you should wear, so don’t be afraid to find what speaks to you!
Can You Wear Wedding Shoes with Accessories Like Lace, Beading, or Bows?
Absolutely! This is one of my favorite parts of choosing the best designer wedding shoes for your attire because it involves playing with style.
Don’t forget – your wedding shoes are an accessory. So if you want to add style, flair, drama, and more to your outfit, you can do it all with the perfect pair of shoes!
Look for shoes that have pearls, beading, lace details, bows, jewels, studs, and more.
Think Outside of the Box
While there are so many different luxury wedding shoe designers to choose from, don’t feel like you have to wear a “wedding” or “bridal” shoe. If you find heels or shoes that look perfect with your dress, then there’s no need to find a pair that are specifically for weddings.
I’ve had many brides wear designers who don’t have designated bridal collections, like Valentino, Chloe, and Miu Miu. The key is to be brave enough to step outside of the box and find styles that look incredible with your dress!
What Are the Most Popular Designer Wedding Shoes to Wear?
Finding the most perfect pair of luxury wedding shoes for your outfit is all up to your style and preference. What works for one bride may not be what you’re looking for in your shoes.
After years of photographing some of the most fashionable brides around the world, I’ve come up with a list of designers who create some of the most amazing styles.
1. Jimmy Choo Wedding Shoes
These designer bridal shoes are one of the most popular options out there. I have had so many brides, like the model, Paola Turani, select a gorgeous pair of Jimmy Choo wedding shoes for their day – and for good reason.
There are plenty of styles to choose from with the Jimmy Choo name. From low kitten heels and stilettos to fashionable block heels, this designer brand has them all. One thing I always love about Jimmy Choo wedding shoes is that there is no shortage of style and embellishments, like giant pearls, jeweled straps, enormous bows, and lace details.
The majority of Jimmy Choo bridal shoes are heels. However, if you’re looking for a beautiful pair of flats for your wedding, there are several options for those, too.
Price Range: $750-$5000
2. Manolo Blahnik Bridal Shoes
Another popular designer wedding shoe is none other than Manolo Blahnik. Think classic. Timeless. Iconic. That’s the Manolo Blahnik name!
Similar to Jimmy Choo, Manolos come with their share of glitz and glamor. Most options have plenty of bedazzling.
As far as the heel type goes, Manolo Blahniks are pretty consistent in their stiletto shape. While you’ll have many options in heel height, from low kitten heels to sky-high ones, the width of the heel is consistent.
Price Range: $800-$2700
3. Badgley Mischka Bridal Shoes
Over the last few years, I’ve photographed many brides who’ve chosen Badgley Mischka bridal shoes for their wedding outfit. It’s quickly become one of the most popular designer wedding shoes for brides around the world.
From thin stilettos and chunky, block heels to low kitten heels and flats, the Badgley Mischka brand has something for every type of bride.
Price Range: $100-$350
4. Aquazzura Wedding Shoes
If you’re looking for subtlety or detailed statements that don’t overpower your dress, then you may want to look at Aquazzura. This wedding shoe designer has plenty of different styles from stilettos to block heels, as seen on this beautiful bride during her London courthouse elopement.
But one thing they almost all have in common is their beauty in simplicity. Rather than adding embellishments at every curve of the shoe, they focus on creating a classic, timeless silhouette so your dress takes center stage.
You can still find plenty of options with sparkle! But even then, Aquazzura has worked hard to make sure they’re not overbearing.
Price Range: $600-$1500
5. Christian Louboutin Wedding Shoes
Ahh, the famous red heels! If you’re wanting luxury wedding shoes that your guests will be able to pinpoint from a mile away, then Christian Louboutin wedding shoes are for you.
The Christian Louboutin bridal shoe brand is all about bringing style to the aisle. So if you’re wanting to make walking down the aisle more like walking down the runway, then you can’t go wrong with a pair of these.
No matter what style of wedding shoe you prefer, this designer brand has something for you. From glitzy jewels to romantic satin, you’re sure to find a pair you love.
Price Range: $800-$1700
6. Monique Lhuillier Bridal Shoes
Whether you’re looking for statement pieces, something classic, or something on the trendier side, Monique Lhuillier bridal shoes are one of the best collections to peruse.
From block heels with statement embellishments to trendy, white sneakers that are perfect for dancing the night away in, all of these designer wedding shoes are beautiful!
Price Range: $400-$900
7. Loeffler Randall Wedding Shoes
The Loeffler Randall wedding shoe collection is one of the first I recommend if you’re looking for a trendy option. They expertly pair silhouettes with beautiful details like pleats and bows.
Loeffler Randall bridal shoes are unlike any other pair of shoes on this list! So if you’re looking for something unique to stand out, you can’t go wrong with a pair of these.
Price Range: $200-$400
8. Stuart Weitzman Wedding Shoes
Another classic luxury wedding shoe brand is none other than Stuart Weitzman. For years, brides, like this one, have been selecting shoes from this collection. Why’s that? Because these styles never go out of style.
If you’re looking for a timeless pair of pumps or stilettos, then let it be a pair of Stuart Weitzman.
Price Range: $175-$950
9. Kat Maconie Bridal Shoes
Newer to the bridal wedding shoes scene is Kat Maconie. And I could not be more obsessed! These shoes are so unconventional, bright, and perfect for a bride who’s not afraid to step away from tradition.
No matter what pair you choose, wearing Kat Maconie bridal shoes will add so much dimension, playfulness, and fashion to your wedding day attire.
Price Range: $200-$500
10. René Caovilla Bridal Shoes
René Caovilla is an Italian designer that has an impeccable bridal shoe collection! The entire line instantly belongs in the “best designer wedding shoes” category. What I absolutely love about these shoes is that they are the perfect blend of elegance and subtle edge.
Between the gorgeous ankle wraps of the heels and the edgy details (like this stunning jeweled snake), René Caovilla’s collection is the perfect wedding shoe option for a bride who’s totally willing to stand out from the crowd.
Price Range: $1050-$2200
11. Sophia Webster Bridal Shoes
In the last few years, I have seen a handful of brides select pairs from the gorgeous Sophia Webster bridal shoe collection. And every time they do, I fawn all over the shoes because they’re so incredible.
Sophia Webster bridal shoes are usually classic and timeless in their silhouettes, as most of them come in a stiletto style. But what makes Sophia Webster wedding heels stand out are the designs. From bold brooches on the toe to exquisite butterfly wings on the backs of the heels, these shoes are truly one of a kind.
If you’re looking for ways to make a statement or to stand out as a bride, then put Sophia Webster bridal shoes at the top of your list!
Price Range: $250-$1750
Yes, your bridal gown is one of the most important parts of your attire. But choosing the best designer wedding shoes will help you complete the entire look!
Don’t be afraid to make a statement with the shoes you decide to wear. All of my Lilly Red brides know that the best way to feel amazing and confident in front of the camera is to embrace your style – especially on one of the biggest days of your life!
