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There are a few scenarios I can contrive in which perilous footwear induces a complete nightmare—a graduation, a 2010 Victoria’s Secret runway, and of course, a wedding day. Walking down the aisle is a pretty big deal, so why take the risk of stumbling down it? There’s no reason we can’t buy elegant pumps and comfortable wedding shoes that won’t send brides and wedding-goers hunting for Band-Aids or lidocaine spray by the end of the night.
“Let’s face it. Women love their heels!” declares Dr. Nelya Lobkova, Certified Surgical Podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City. But how can we settle on a pair of wedding-worthy shoes without the style versus comfort trade-off? Lobkova gave us her do’s and dont’s when it comes to picking out special occasion footwear that’s comfortable yet worthy of the best gowns, party dresses, and wedding guest attire. “Look for pumps with a platform under the ball of the foot,” she advises, which will help to act as a shock absorber and decrease stress and soreness after extended wear. Chunky heels and ankle straps also add an element of stability. “If you plan on buying a heel that’s above 3”, I would recommend going with a chunky heel,” Lobkova says.
The Best Black
Kurt Geiger London Belgravia Bow Velvet Kitten Heel
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The High-Fashion Flat
Badgley Mischka Gigi Crystal Pointed-Toe Flat
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Not Your Average Sneaker
Dolce Vita Zina Pearl Sneakers
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The Fairytale Favorite
Bella Belle Esther Mesh Lace Beaded Kitten Heels
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The Pearly Whites
Kate Spade Avaline Faux Pearl-Embellished Satin Sandals
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The Vintage Style Sock Boot
Angel Alarcon Pointed-Toe Kitten Heel Boots
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If you’d rather avoid heels altogether, Lobkova suggests looking at styles like knee-high boots or ballet flats. “Go flat! Pick a fun suede color like this royal blue, or a patent black to elevate elegance.” The thing about selecting the right wedding shoes is that it can be tricky to adhere to a specific dress code, especially during the fall or winter seasons. Find Dr. Lobkova’s tips and our expert picks for the most comfortable wedding shoes below, all based on podiatrist-backed recommendations, customer consensus, and a few editor favorites. And for the bride-to-be: Most styles come in white.
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”
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.”
JW PEI is picking up steam for its extensive and glorious selection of vegan bags—I can confirm that my Fae Crossbody Bag absolutely rakes in the compliments wherever I go. No doubt, the brand’s shoes are the same. With puffy cushioning on these fun, abstract mules my bets are these will be as viral as the bags. “Remember, heels can be fun geometric shapes too,” Lobkova adds.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: 16 options
Material: Vegan leather, polyester
Heel height: 2”
Customer review: “I loveeeeee this shoe! The vegan leather is so plush and soft, and the color is so vibrant! The shape is also fabulous, a statement shoe that is COMFY AF!!!”
The Best Black
Kurt Geiger London Belgravia Bow Velvet Kitten Heel
The Best Black
Kurt Geiger London Belgravia Bow Velvet Kitten Heel
The kitten heel has long been the ideal stiletto alternative for those seeking sophistication without risking sprain. And now that bridesmaids in black is a trend rather than a taboo, it’s the ideal time to pull out these cushioned, velvet slingbacks from Kurt Geiger (which will also look great at any and all holiday parties).
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black, Gold, Teal
Material: Velvet
Heel height: 2.5”
Customer review: “Love love love. I’m someone that needs a low heel, and so far I have been able to wear these without any issues because they also have a more padded insole than most other shoes. Plus, they’re sparkly and pretty. Highly recommend.”
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The High-Fashion Flat
Badgley Mischka Gigi Crystal Pointed-Toe Flat
The High-Fashion Flat
Badgley Mischka Gigi Crystal Pointed-Toe Flat
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Sometimes, a wedding look calls for a bit of sparkle. These cream bedazzled flats would look especially impressive with a champagne-colored gown. Reviewers did recommend breaking them in a bit prior to the big day (the sides are known to rub), but once they’re adjusted, these shoes should keep your feet happy and snug all night long.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Ivory Satin, Black Satin
Material: Mesh, leather, synthetic materials
Customer review: “I can’t get over how comfortable they are!! I thought maybe the little crystals would scratch my skin but not at all! It also doesn’t pinch my feet either. I made sure to walk around with them on with my actual wedding dress and it felt and looked great.”
Weddings are a fabulous opportunity to take trends on a test run, and these strappy Mary Jane pumps are a personal favorite. The low heel and versatile silhouette make them ideal for long-term wear.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: Dark Ivory, Black, Washed Teal
Material: Textile and synthetic
Heel height: 2”
Editor review: “I bought these in the black patent color, and I could not be more thankful for them. A cute, comfy little block heel that goes with all my jeans and sweater dresses this season and is classic enough to withstand yearly trends. I did have to break them in a few times to soften the area around the heel, but now I rely on them constantly. Plus, I’ve been forever searching for a good faux leather Mary Jane style like this.”—A.A.
Not Your Average Sneaker
Dolce Vita Zina Pearl Sneakers
Not Your Average Sneaker
Dolce Vita Zina Pearl Sneakers
A sparkly pick for the glitter-inclined among us, these statement-making Dolce Vita sneakers feature faux pearls and metallic accents that make them wedding-day-worthy.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Vanilla Pearls
Material: Leather, synthetic, pearls
Heel height: 1”
Customer review: “Was looking for a fun sneaker suitable to wear under my wedding dress but that I could wear again. These were perfect [to wear with] my wedding dress and a t-shirt and cropped jeans.”
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The Fairytale Favorite
Bella Belle Esther Mesh Lace Beaded Kitten Heels
The Fairytale Favorite
Bella Belle 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” heel.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Ivory
Material: Silk, mesh, leather
Heel height: 2.5”
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!”
While notably more precarious than a flat, these block heel pumps are super sturdy and made to withstand much more movement than your average dinner party. And the soft, patent pink enables you to make them a favorite staple in your shoe collection.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: 6 options
Material: Faux patent leather, synthetic materials
Heel height: 3.5”
Customer review: “A fun color and beautiful style—goes with many things and at a great price!”
The Pearly Whites
Kate Spade Avaline Faux Pearl-Embellished Satin Sandals
The Pearly Whites
Kate Spade Avaline Faux Pearl-Embellished Satin Sandals
A bridal shoe doesn’t get any more classic than this all-white satin Kate Spade heel, topped off with faux pearls.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: Ivory
Material: Textile, leather
Heel height: 3”
Customer review: “I purchased these shoes as my wedding shoes. They are stunningly elegant and the perfect height. Wearable all night!"
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The Vintage Style Sock Boot
Angel Alarcon Pointed-Toe Kitten Heel Boots
The Vintage Style Sock Boot
Angel Alarcon Pointed-Toe Kitten Heel Boots
Bonus points for the durability and versatility of these sock boots—you’ll be able to wear them with numerous post-wedding outfits.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: 7 options
Material: Faux leather
Heel height: 1.5”
Customer review: “These boots exceeded my expectations. Not only are they gorgeous and flattering, they are comfortable. The heel gives just enough height and these can be worn with pants and skirts or dresses.”
If you’re a boho bride (or bridesmaid, or guest!) and heels aren’t your thing, these elegant closed-toe flats are comfy enough to slip on and slip off as you float from one event to another.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: 9 options
Material: Glitter-coated fabric, jewel embellishment
Heel height: 15mm
Customer review: “Such a beautiful and comfy shoe!! It’s perfect for the days I still want to be dressed up but don’t want to wear heels.”
The Cinderella Slipper
Amina Muaddi Begum Crystal-Embellished Pumps
The Cinderella Slipper
Amina Muaddi 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”
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.”
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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”
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!”
If it’s comfort you’re after, look no further than Vionic. The brand is a favorite amongst podiatrists, and this particular style holds the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance for its cushioning, stability, arch support, and flexibility.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 9 options
Material: Leather, synthetic materials
Heel height: 4”
Customer review: “For a heel, these are my go-to. I have arch issues and I can wear these without being in ball-of-foot pain.”
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!”
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The Classy Cowgirl
Betsey Johnson Emory Rhinestone Western Boot
The Classy Cowgirl
Betsey Johnson Emory Rhinestone Western Boot
Introducing the maximalist’s cowboy boot—a match made in heaven for all of those Nashville bachelorette parties or country-themed weddings. With a stacked and stable heel, these blinged-out booties will also pair great with dressed-down denim or make for a shimmery concert shoe.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: White, Silver, Dark Brown, Black
Material: Synthetic and fabric, rhinestone embellishment
Heel height: 3.5”
Customer review: “These are so dang cute. I cannot wait to wear them for my bachelorette party...I ordered a full size up from what I typically wear.”
The Versatile Steal
Lulu’s Maryna Off White Pointed-Toe Mules
The Versatile Steal
Lulu’s Maryna Off White Pointed-Toe Mules
Lulus has an exceptional selection of affordable, swoon-worthy wedding shoes, but the understated lure of these cushioned slip-ons makes them a top contender.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Off White, Black
Material: Vegan leather
Heel height: 3.5”
Customer review: “I’m getting married in November, and the hardest part of picking my outfit out was the shoes! I have wide feet and I wanted something closed-toe since my wedding is outdoors. I tried on so many pairs of shoes and they were all so narrow. I was so happy when I received these mules and put them on because they were the first pair that fit perfectly!”
Color me obsessed. There are one-use-only, single-occasion shoes, and then there are these rich, red-wine velvet slingbacks from Larroude that exude French It-Girl aesthetic. Thanks to the adjustable ankle strap and memory foam cushioning, you can get years of day-to-night versatility out of these as well.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Wine, Black, Ivory, Silver
Material: Velvet, leather
Heel height: 2.5”
Customer review: “I spent years in four-plus-inch heels, and while I no longer have to—or even could if I did—on occasion, I miss wearing a cool, chic, elegant pair of shoes. These are all those things, without being stiff or formal, and the heel height and shape is sexy without being daunting.”
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“Cheat with a block heel and platform under the ball of the foot,” Lobkova discloses. These chunky platforms may look intimidating, but the platform base makes the heel-to-toe pitch significantly smaller. Plus, the front ankle strap adds extra insurance for secure wear.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: Nude, Black, Red, White
Material: Synthetic
Heel height: 4”
Customer review: “High heels, but comfortable to wear because of the platform!”
Sneakers go with almost anything in 2023—and more and more brides are slipping into Converse or Nikes shortly after the ceremony, so it’s becoming a necessity for modern nuptials. If your affair is laidback enough to allow sneakers throughout the day’s events, you can’t go wrong with the Nike Air Force 1.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: White, Black, White/Blue/Green, Mantra Orange
Material: Leather, textile, synthetic
Customer review: “I’ll admit that I bought these because they are a super popular style. What I didn’t expect was the comfort and the fit of these shoes...I can wear these all day at work and come home and my feet aren’t in pain. I like the height boost they give me.”