These Comfy Wedding Shoes Will Keep Your Feet Happy on the Big Day
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Wedding days (and the surrounding soirées) entail a lot of pressure for all involved, be it bride, bridesmaid, or guest. And most of that pressure is…on your feet. Finding comfortable wedding shoes is key, lest you find yourself barefoot before the dancing even starts. But don’t fret! Marrying comfort and style is way easier than finding Mr. or Mrs. Right—as long as you keep a couple of professional tips in mind.
One way to take the stress off your feet is to add shock absorption and decrease stress and soreness after extended wear. “Look for pumps with a platform under the ball of the foot,” advises Dr. Nelya Lobkova, certified surgical podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City, “If you plan on buying a heel that’s above three inches, I would recommend going with a chunky heel.” Not only does a wider heel add stability, but it will also keep you from sinking into any outdoor terrain. We’re also living through a ballet flat renaissance, so take advantage! “Go flat! Pick a fun color or a patent black to elevate elegance,” says Lobkova.
So, whether the dress code is black tie or barnyard chic, read on for the best customer- and editor-approved wedding shoes to shop now.
NEARLYNUDE
We can probably go ahead and declare this the most wearable heel on earth, perfect for any and every occasion—just read one of the over 300 reviews singing its praises for proof!
Sizes: 4-13
Colors: White, Black, Adobe Beige, Dolce Taupe
Material: Leather
Heel height: 3.2 inches
Customer review: “Go-to heels for work and play. Stylish and comfortable for conferences, weddings, and events with lots of standing and grass or unstable ground. Wore them for 12 hrs at my wedding without issue.”
Hazel Pointed Toe Pump
If you’re outfitting an entire bridal party, this Sam Edelman pump is about to be your hero. Available in a broad size range, multiple widths and a huge variety of colors, prints, and textures, this pump will have everyone covered.
Sizes: 4-14
Colors: 34 options
Material: Leather, rubber
Heel height: 4 inches
Customer review: “The color, quality of the sueded and superior craftsmanship have me sold. I danced for a few songs, stood chatting and my feet were VERY comfortable. I buy a half size larger than my regular size in pointy-toed shoes. I am over 50 but I still love to wear heels for special occasions...Life is a special occasion, so I'm buying every color I can."
Esther Mesh Lace Beaded Kitten Heels
Ethereal and enchanting, these heavily padded, fantasy heels from Bella Belle are adorned with hand-beaded floral lace and a removable tulle bow at the heel. If you feel like you need to take things up a notch, they’re also available in a 4-inch heel.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Ivory
Material: Silk, mesh, leather
Heel height: 2.5 inches
Customer review: “Oh goodness did I feel beautiful with these shoes. They just pulled my whole outfit together and I felt absolutely stunning...I even incorporated the shoe into my reception just so I could show them off!”
Chunky Block Heeled Sandals
There will be no sinking into the lawn with these block heels—consider this your all-terrain wedding sandal.
Sizes: 6-10
Colors: 8 options
Material: PU, rubber
Heel height: 2 inches
Customer review: “These were perfect for my daughter’s beach wedding. Heel is just the right height for comfort.”
Joy Ankle Strap Sandal
Think outside of the traditional range of nudes or whites—this soft metallic is a neutral.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: 13 options
Material: Leather, synthetic sole
Heel height: 3.5 inches
Customer review: “I have now worn this shoe to two weddings. While other guests took off their heels after hours of standing and dancing - these still felt good at the end of the night. I bought the pink pair and am now getting black!”
Pepper Ballet Flat with Bow
No pressure to go all-in on high heels! A sweet ballet flat is a perfect (and perfectly comfy) choice.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: 7 options
Material: PU
Heel height: 0.5 inches
Customer review: “I am very happy with the quality and comfort of these ballet flats. Very, very happy."
Take a Bow Slingback Sandal
Something new, something blue, and... something extremely comfortable? Check, check, and check!
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Light Blue, Champagne, Black
Material: Textile upper, synthetic sole
Heel height: 2.75 inches
Customer review: “I purchased these for my wedding, and they are so cute and perfect! Very comfortable which was something important to me. Love them.”
Maya Flat Sandal
Calling all beach brides (and guests)! No need to fuss with sinking heels and sand-filled soles. These Reformation sandals will carry you from the seaside ceremony to the reception.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Alabaster Leather, White Patent, Black Suede, Mirror Metallic
Material: Leather
Heel height: 0.2 inches
Perfect Pump 85
Follow the advice of Alexa Chung, and stick to the classics. Timelessly elegant, you’d never know that this Sarah Flint pump houses a wide-fitting toe box, contoured arch support, a secure steel stiletto, and 6mm of extra padding. Plus, if leather’s not your thing, these lifesaving heels are also available in white satin.
Sizes: 4-13
Colors: 24 options
Material: Calf leather
Heel height: 3.3 inches
Customer review: “These pumps live up to their name: perfect. I had stopped wearing high heels after spraining my ankle a decade or so ago. I couldn’t bear the idea of wearing flats to my daughter’s, wedding so I bought the Sarah Flint 85s thinking I would switch to flats after the ceremony and photos. To my surprise, I ended up wearing them all night and even for the car ride home. I have never worn a more comfortable pair of heels...comfortable right out of the box.”
City Sandal
A tried-and-true sandal gets a bridal makeover in wedding-worthy satin and a crystal buckle.
Sizes: 4-12.5
Colors: 14 options
Material: Satin, leather
Heel height: 2.5 inches
Customer review: “Lovely sandal. It is perfect for my son’s wedding. At first I thought the heel strap was too big, but then I realized the straps slide and got the perfect fit. Can’t wait to wear them”
Pendry Platform Heel
If you’re in need of a little height, look no further than this Vince Camuto platform. The wide heel, platform sole, and ankle strap will keep your stride stable. And the footbed is a little something blue!
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Milk
Material: Satin, synthetic materials
Heel height: 4.25 inches
Customer review: “Bought these shoes for my wedding and they were great! They were stylish, comfortable, and matched my dress perfectly. I would say they are a little more ivory than "milky" which was exactly what I was looking for. I have purchased many Vince Camuto pieces and they never disappoint.”
GG Slingback Pump
Calling all Gucci girls! This Tom Ford-era icon is back in blush with just the right dash of sparkle.
Sizes: 4-12
Colors: Rose, Black
Material: Mesh, crystals, leather
Heel height: 4 inches
Pearl Studded Strap Square Toe Flats
For a tuxedo-inspired take on the ballet flat, consider this pair in showstopping mesh with a pearl embellished strap.
Sizes: 4-16
Colors: 5 options
Material: Faux leather, mesh, faux pearls
Heel height: 0.5 inches
Customer review: “These are GORGEOUS! I'm going back for more!!!! Comfortable, & very high end looking”
Caia Crystal Heart Platform Sandals
Your wedding day is definitely the day to make a statement, and these Badgley Mischka platforms deliver all the style without sacrificing comfort. Plus, we love the darling heart detail!
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Silver, Black, Soft White, Gold
Material: Crepe, Leather, Crystal Buckle
Heel height: 4.75 inches
Customer review: “The heels were super cute and comfortable!! I would size down half a size due to the strap in the back feeling loose. But other than that I will be getting it in gold too!!
Essence White Hi Shine Flats
Timeless with a modern twist (literally), these embellished Tony Bianco kitten heels are the perfect update on a classic silhouette.
Sizes: 4-11
Colors: White, Black, Gray, Mustard
Material: Leather, rubber
Heel height: 0.9 inches
Begum Crystal-Embellished Pumps
The next best thing to a true, princess-inspired glass slipper, this Amina Muaddi pump features a sculptural heel for a sturdier base and a tiny crystal bow that adds just the right amount of sparkle for happily ever after.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Clear
Material: PVC, crystal embellishment
Heel height: 3.8 inches
Customer review: “I absolutely love these shoes...perfect for a nice formal event. They are snug at first and run small so I sized up a half size...more comfortable than other PVC-style pumps. I got so many compliments when I wore them for a wedding in the summer! I have the clear, and they go with everything.”
Aurelie 65
Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but don’t count out these pearls!
Sizes: 4-13
Colors: Latte/White, Ballet Pink/White, Black/White, Tanzanite/White
Material: Patent leather, faux pearl and crystal embellishment
Heel height: 2.6 inches
Customer review: “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.”
Square Wedding Party Sandal
Looking for an elevated option you can get some real mileage out of? This sandal will take you seamlessly from everyday to wedding days and back again.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: 7 options
Material: PU, Thermoplastic rubber
Heel height: 2.4 inches
ELLE Editor review: “As a fashion editor, this has become my personal go-to shoe, taking me from fashion weeks to backyard weddings to regular old days in the office. The heel height is just right, and the cushioned straps & soles make these ready for all-day wear.”—Rosie Jarman, market editor
The Annie
Facing a country-chic dress code or rustic barn venue? Embrace the vibe in a white cowboy boot!
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: 13 options
Material: Bovine leather
Heel height: 2 inches
Customer review: “Comfortable on the first wear. I love love love them so much and get so many compliments. I live in New York and I WALK in these babies, and again, so comfortable!!”
Jackie Cream Mid-Heel Sandal
Bows aren’t just for bouquets and bowties! An adjustable wrap means no risk of dealing with a too-tight or too-loose ankle strap.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Cream, Champagne, Dune
Material: Viscose/Silk, Leather
Heel height: 1.75 inches
Customer review: “Fits true to size and very comfortable immediately”
Amour Dress Sandal
Nothing says party time like a pop of hot pink (and a fabulous bow)!
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Pnina Pink, Envy Green, Black, Silk White
Material: Satin
Heel height: 3.25 inches
Customer review: “I absolutely LOVE these shoes! They were comfortable to walk in all evening. I ordered a half size up after reading some reviews”
Sacred Bow Pump
A pump fit for a princess, these pale pink satin heels are embellished with a tulle and crystal beaded bow.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Blush, Soft White, Azure Blue, Black
Material: Textile and synthetic, leather
Heel height: 3.5 inches
Customer review: “These are beautiful, beyond my expectations, and are comfortable. I’ve had the Mach and Mach’s; I’ll save a coin and get these going forward!! They are beautiful!”
Cherello Platform Sneaker
No runaway brides here! The all-over shimmer makes this sneaker wedding-worthy.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: Silver
Material: Rhinestones, synthetic
Heel height: 1.75 inches
Customer review: “I’m so so happy I purchased these for my daughter to change into at her wedding to wear with her wedding gown and/or her change outfit. She says they’re so so comfortable and has the ‘bling’ she really wanted!”
Picnic Shoe
Flower girls aren’t the only ones capable of rocking Mary Janes. These cutesy flats feature a heart-shaped Swarovski buckle for an extra dose of glamour. “The Mary Jane pointe shoe is super trendy, and it’s actually a reasonably comfortable alternative shoe that can be dressed up for a wedding,” Lobkova shares.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Dove, Maya, Yoko, Midnight
Material: Leather
Customer review: “Really nice leather, classic look and a nice bit of flair with the crystal embellishment!”
Low-Heel Pump Sandals
Don’t count out Amazon for wedding attire. These simple, straight-to-the-point block heels have 4.3 stars from over 10,400 reviewers who have attested to their captivating comfort and style versatility.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 21 options
Material: Polyurethane, rubber, latex
Heel height: 2.25 inches
Customer review: “I did not expect to find my perfect wedding shoes on Amazon, but alas—I wore these babies to my wedding last year, and I didn’t take them off once from 3 P.M. to midnight. After multiple hours of walking, running, skipping, and dancing, I suffered not one single blister.”
Alice Heeled Sandal
A demure heel with a hot skinny strap, what more could you ask for?
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Almond Leather, Black Suede, Gold, Pecan
Material: Leather
Heel height: 1 inch
Wedding Shoe Do’s & Dont’s
Decide on the style you’ll feel most confident in. If you are opting for high heels, a block heel or wedge is a safer bet compared to sky-high stilettos. “When we wear very high heels [above 3 inches], the natural fat pad in the ball of the foot is displaced towards the toes, minimizing the shock absorption under the ball of the foot,” Lobkova notes, and adds that “the common tendons that cause hammertoes—flexor tendons—are favored and overpull the toes.” This can exacerbate various foot conditions and provide an anatomical explanation behind your stiff, sore feet, so the cushioning and padding in a shoe are critically important.
Lobkova also advises you to be aware of your gait when walking with heels (in other words, make sure it’s working for you and not against you). “The tendency is to lean back; however, this may cause falling and injuries,” she warns. “The ideal posture is slightly relaxed at the knees with a slight forward tilt...it is advised to stretch and massage the Achilles tendon before and after wearing high heels...this tendon gets contracted or shortened after long periods of high heel wear.”
This should go without saying, but don’t decide on any shoe you don’t feel comfortable in. Weddings should be a fun occasion, and nobody (least of all the bride) wants to worry about debilitating foot pain all night. If you have a specific podiatric concern, try getting a custom orthotic or gel insole made in advance to address any footwear fears.
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