Marilyn Monroe got it right when she said “Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world."
Photo Courtesy of theknot.com
When it comes to finding shoes, it’s hard not to just dream about that very moment you are standing at the end of the aisle, looking amazing as ever, the love of your life waiting for you make that first step, with those stunning 4 inch Manolo Blahniks! Yes, style is important. Yes, they can be just as beautiful as you ever imagined them to be, but there are a few key things to keep in mind as well.
Comfort:
This is a very important, if not the most important, factor in selecting your shoes. It is very easy to be carried away with the way the shoes look. You have to remember that you will be walking down the aisle with these shoes, standing for what may seem like hours on end, walking around mingling with your guests, and dancing at the reception in these shoes.
Try shopping for shoes towards the end of your day. Feet tend to swell as the day progresses, and they are bigger at the end of the day. Also, try purchasing shoes that are a ½ size bigger than you usually wear. The more strain you put on your feet, especially given how many hours you will be wearing them on your wedding day, they will swell. It would also be a great idea to have an extra pair of insoles, or pads, for your shoes. This way you can slip them on whenever and wherever they are needed.
Consider purchasing second pair of shoes for the reception. Something that is a little bit more comfortable, like a low heel, ballet flats, or cute flip flops. At some point during the night those fabulous wedding shoes will start to hurt!
Photo courtesy of theknot.com
Break your wedding day shoes in! Walk around at home in your shoes for a few weeks before the wedding. MAKE SURE THEY ARE COMFORTABLE!
Height:
This goes hand in hand with comfort. A heel is a great way to give you that extra boost. It creates lift that will elongate your body and crafts a beautiful line. Who doesn’t want that? However, if you have never worn a heel larger than an inch, this would not be a great day to start on those 3 ½ inchers. Just imagine yourself being in those shoes all night. Also, think about the height of your groom, just to make sure you are not soaring over him.
Comfort? Check. Height? Check. Now, surface...
Are you having an outdoor wedding? What type of shoes will work? A spiky heel on grass will have you uncomfortably on the balls of your feet the whole time, or poking holes all through the lawn. Having an indoor wedding? Does it have a slippery surface? What type of shoes will work well inside? These are questions you have to ask yourself. You want to ensure that you are able to walk marvelously and are not slipping and sliding. One quick tip-if you have shoes that have a smoother sole, scuff it up. Make sure that you have enough traction.
Your Day, Your Style:
You want to choose a shoe that reflects your style. This is the fun part. If you are more traditional, the most popular shoes are made of Silk and Satin. They are the easiest to dye, and are typically the same color as your gown. If you are Non- Traditional then explore COLOR! This can add that WOW to your look.
Photo courtesy of theknot.com
More helpful tips:
A simple and elegant dress should be paired with a more elaborate shoe. A dress that has more beadwork and detail should be paired with a simpler shoe. Even with this said, your shoe should reflect YOU. If you decide to go with shoes that have embellishments, make sure they coordinate with the embellishments on your dress. If your shoe has embellishments, watch out for the fabric that is at the bottom of your shoe to ensure that it does not snag on the heel, or that you don’t step on it.
Length of Dress:
Consider how visible your shoes will be. This will help with budgeting. If your shoes are not something that will be AS visible then the $$$$ designer shoes can be replaced with a $$ less expensive shoe. If you have selected a shorter gown it may seem easier to justify spending more on shoes, because you know they will be seen. Always keep in mind, the key points (comfort, height, style, etc.) when purchasing your wedding shoes. Oh, and if you are spending the $$$$, make sure you can wear them again! Tip- Make sure that you purchase your shoes with enough time to take them along to alteration appointments.
Where are they?
There are plenty of places to find shoes. These days the most popular place is online. You are able to compare prices, styles, designers, and basically everything, in the comfort of your own home. Don’t forget my earlier suggestion, COMFORT IS KEY, and you cannot try on shoes your purchase online. That’s why giving yourself enough time for delivery and/or a return is a huge MUST. Sometimes when purchasing online it is good to purchase more than one pair. It is easier to return a pair that is a “no” than to find a pair you love last minute.
You can also often purchase bridal shoes at a Bridal Salon. Most Bridal Salons just have sample sizes of shoes, just like gowns, so you will have to order your size. Make sure you ask about, and are comfortable with, their return policy before you order shoes.
Photo credit to R.E.M. Photography
You can make a day, a week, or a month of finding your shoes, shopping around until you find the perfect pair to go with the perfect dress! Hit up all the department stores and the local boutiques. Admire someone’s shoe collection? Ask them where they shop and pay that business a visit.
Although this may seem like an overwhelming list of things to remember, the most important thing is that this is your special day. You want to be comfortable, confident and stylishly you. The perfect pair will lead you to be the most dazzling bride out there!
Have fun shopping,
Kate
What you have selected for your wedding day shoes?
BBFN (Bridal Bliss for Now),
Olivia
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