The type of shoes you wear to a wedding will depend on where the wedding is and how formal it is. Not only should your shoes complement your outfit, but they should also be comfortable enough to last through the ceremony and reception. Here’s our helpful guide to selecting the perfect pair of shoes for the occasion.
Shoes for Formal Indoor Weddings
Formal weddings, often held in big hotels or historic venues, call for a more sophisticated footwear. Classic heels such as stilettos, shoes or strappy sandals in neutral tones are ideal choices. If you’re not comfortable in high heels, consider block heels or dressy flats that will work with wedding guest dresses like those from //ohelloclothing.com/collections/wedding-guest-dresses. For winter weddings, choose closed-toe shoes, velvet heels or ankle boots so you stay warm. Darker shades like burgundy, navy or emerald are ideal for the colder months.
Shoes for informal Indoor Weddings
For a laid-back indoor wedding, you can have more relaxed style of shoe. Low heels, wedges or flats in vibrant colours or soft pastels are all excellent choices. If the wedding is informal, loafers or ankle boots could also add personality to your outfit while keeping your feet comfortable.
Shoes for Outdoor Garden or Beach Weddings
Outdoor settings can be tricky for heels, so practicality is key. Wedges or block heels still give you height yet stability on grass or gravel, while decorative flats or sandals are perfect for beach ceremonies. Avoid thin stilettos that may sink straight into the ground. Choose shoes with ankle straps for added support and comfort. Nude, pastel or metallic tones often complement floral or flowy dresses.
For Semi-Formal or Casual Weddings
For garden parties, informal weddings or low-key celebrations, a semi-formal or casual dress code allows for more flexibility. Comfortable yet still stylish choices include low-block heels, slingbacks or dressy sandals. Flats with bows or beaded details are also a great option. If you prefer a more relaxed look, espadrilles or wedge sandals can pair well with floral dresses or midi skirts.
Comfort and spares for a long day
Whatever the dress code, choose shoes you can keep on all day, so your feet are not aching long before the evening ends. Packing a pair of flats for the dancing is an easy way to manage a long celebration. For outdoor weddings on grass, wedges are a sensible alternative to stilettos, which sink into the lawn and are easily ruined.
The rest of the outfit can work around the shoes. If you have several weddings in one summer, a plain, good-quality dress can be given a fresh look each time with different accessories, including a change of shoes. A maxi dress suits a summer wedding and can be dressed up with clever accessorising. Vintage or charity shop finds save money and reduce the chance of someone turning up in the same outfit.
It is also worth bringing a back-up outfit. If someone is wearing the same dress, or yours gets stained or damaged during the day, you can change without fuss.