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The days of having to choose between comfort and style while hunting for the best bridesmaid shoes seems to be a thing of the past. According to shoe designer Sarah Flint, “bridal parties have been given a bit more free rein to mix and match their dresses and shoes. Comfort, convenience, consideration of your personal taste and the ability to wear your bridesmaid shoes post-wedding have become more and more important.”
It’s no question that Covid-19 has impacted all facets of the wedding industry, including the way we shop for bridesmaid shoes. Many couples postponed the big day or opted for smaller, outdoor ceremonies at the height of the pandemic, leading to a trend of more casual looks for both the bride and bridal party. But now with the world opening up and more than 2.5 million weddings due to take place this year, celebrity fashion stylist Micaela Erlanger says that dressy styles are once again a priority for brides and bridesmaids. “When it comes to re-planning weddings, my clients are looking for every element to be as glamorous as the next, shoes included of course,” explains Erlanger, who herself got married last week.
What to consider for comfortable and cute bridesmaid shoes
First things first, Erlanger suggests that one must always start with the dress code. “Whether it’s black-tie or something more casual, that should always be the jumping-off point. Then from there, you have to consider location and venue.” It’s always important to also think of the season. “Outside in the summer, you may want to offer your bridal party a platform sandal. On the flip side, having an indoor wedding allows for more creative freedom.” Erlanger stresses that communication with your bridal party is key. “Most important of all is picking a style that everyone is comfortable with.”
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For garden weddings, Erlanger suggests a wedge or block heel; a beach destination, flats or espadrilles; a mountain escape, block heels; and for the city, stilettos.
According to Erlanger, comfort reigns supreme. “When it comes to being comfortable, in general and on the dance floor, you want to look for shoes with a manageable pitch, sturdy heel and supportive strap.” And, she advises bridesmaids should always have a backup shoe option. “At a wedding, everyone is looking to have fun and hopefully dance the night away. If that means doing a shoe change, I say go ahead. The advantage is everyone is comfortable without sacrificing style. For something like this, I love brands like Margaux. The label also has customizable width and size options to fit everyone.”
Flint also isn’t opposed to the idea of a wardrobe change. “If your shoes provide long-lasting comfort, you shouldn’t have to swap shoes, but it’s always great to have options,” Flint says. “I’d recommend bringing a chic pair of flat sandals, which can easily be slipped on towards the end of the night for endless dancing.”
New York-based podiatrist Dr. Hillary Brenner tells her patients that when shopping for shoes, especially dress shoes, “it’s so important to make sure the toe box is the right width and shape,” she says. “For instance, a pointy toe shoe can squeeze the toes together, which can lead to neuromas, irritate bunions and cause corns to develop.” Additionally, the material of the shoe is a crucial consideration. “The softer the finish (think mesh, faux leather, soft leather or suede), the less friction, and you don’t want any seams over bony prominences,” she notes.
Dr. Brenner adds that those with wider feet, bunions or corns should also go for “a wide toe box that is preferably square or round.”
If you have flat feet, she suggests looking for shoes with good arch support. “The thicker the arch of the shoe, the better,” she says. “Also, try to wear a shoe with a wide, chunky heel, which will help stabilize the heel bone and keep your foot in a neutral position. This can in turn avoid over compensation that can lead to pain.”
And for those with high arches, it’s key to look for shoes with ankle support. “Try to look for shoes that have a strap around the ankle or more of a high-top shoe,” Dr. Brenner advises. “The high arch foot is basically the same shape of a high heel, so you’re putting extra pressure on the ball of the foot.” Another style that’s great for those with high arches? A shoe with a platform, which will “help with shock absorption,” she explains.
Top Comfortable Bridesmaid Shoes
- Best Mary Jane Pumps: Kate Spade Maren Mary Jane Pumps
- Best Retro-Inspired Design: Roger Vivier Belle Vivier 45 Slingback Pumps
- Most Comfortable Block Heels: Aquazzura Sundance 50 Sandals
- Best Ethereal Style: Loeffler Randall Camellia Knotted Sandal
- Best Naked Pumps: Aquazzura Naked Pump 50
- Best Metallic Platform Sandals: Aquazzura Sinner Plateau Platforms
- Best Platform Wedges: Brother Vellies Gemini Wooden Sandals
- Jimmy Choo Drive Ankle Strap Espadrille Sandals
- Best Subtle Platform Sandals: Kate Spade Bow Ankle Strap Sandals
- Best Sculptural Heels: Alfani Coreena Square-Heel Dress Sandals
- Best for Minimalists: Neous Petra Slingback Pumps
- Best Sparkle Slingback Pumps: Gucci Tom Embellished Slingback Pumps
- Best Braided Mules: Porte and Paire Braided Leather Mules
- Best Kitten Heel Mules: Coutgo Kitten Heel Mules
- Best Bridesmaids Booties: Sarah Flint Lamé Dress Booties
- Best Bow Embellished Pumps: Manolo Blahnik Serba 70 Bow-Detailed Suede Pumps
- Best Classic Buckle Mules: Fashare Buckle Mules
- Best Flat Sandals: The Row Charlotte Bicolor Leather Tassel-Tie Sandals
- Best Classic Black Flats: Jimmy Choo Ade Imitation Pearl Mary Jane Flats
The different types of comfortable bridesmaid shoes to consider
Nowadays, there are so many cool, unexpected options as well as the tried-and-true bridesmaid styles. From classic pumps to untraditional booties, there’s something for every kind of bridesmaid to let their style shine through. Though some of us may gravitate towards choosing the shoe before the dress, Micaela Erlanger suggests never deciding on one without the other. “The dress and shoes go hand-in-hand, and you have to consider both when selecting a style. Always make sure you have the shoes you are wearing the day of when fitting the dress.”
Mules: Mules are an easy option for all seasons, especially for the warm months. They come in flat or heeled options and give an elegant, ultra-feminine touch to any bridesmaids dress, whether short or long in length. Even if a bridesmaid opts for a low heel, she can still give the illusion of elongating the leg. “You never want to cut off the leg at the ankle with a strap,” Erlanger says. “Consider the shape of the shoe. Something pointed will always draw the eye down and out, creating length.”
Block Heels: These are perfect for outdoor or beach destinations, as they won’t sink into grass or sand. Wedding stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz says many of her bride and bridesmaid clients are now requesting block heels for a little extra comfort, and also because they’re a great pick for ceremonies on uneven terrain.
Flint suggests opting for her brand’s popular Perfect Block sandal for these sorts of occasions.
Flats: Flats are a great option for those who don’t want to go the classic heel route. They’re ideal for every wedding location and come in an array of colors and materials like lace, leather, satin and bejeweled finishes. It’s important to look for styles with straps that hold the foot in place and that won’t rub and cause blisters.
Wedges: When thinking about weddings on the grass this season, Flint suggests this style. “We just launched our Mirjana wedge, which has been really popular.” These are perfect for the sand as well.
Pumps: Traditional bridesmaids will lean towards this style, whether in classic colors or bold hues with standout embellishments, depending on the dress code.
Booties: Also ideal for unconventional brides, there are perfect for bridesmaids who like to stray from tradition. Dress booties can be western-inspired, feature glitzy embellishments or be done in elegant lace. They often offer more support than a classic sandal or low heel.
Ahead, we rounded up the 19 best bridesmaid shoes — from classic silhouettes to extra-glam pairs — suitable for every dress code and style.
Related stories:
22 Comfortable Wedding Shoes for All Types of Brides
20 Flat Wedding Shoes for Brides to Feel Comfortable on Their Big Day
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Best Bridesmaid Shoes With Block Heels
Kate Spade Maren Mary Jane Pumps
Best Mary Jane Pumps
- Offered in three colors
- Available in sizes 5-9.5, including half sizes
- Offered in medium width and fits true to size
Kate Spade’s sparkly, pointed toe Mary Jane pumps are a dance floor showstopper. It’s no surprise, of course, as the brand has perfected the art of playful sophistication. The style has a sturdy 3.5-inch block heel and features a synthetic upper and leather lining and sole.
These are the perfect statement to any shorter bridesmaid dresses. “If a bridesmaids’ dress is a delicate fabric like tulle or lace, avoid shoes with embellishments or crystals, which could snag on the dress and cause a tear. With a shorter dress, the shoe choice should be a little more intentional and match the overall style of the dress and the formality of the event,” Hurwitz says.
Roger Vivier Belle Vivier 45 Slingback Pumps
Best Retro-Inspired Design
- Offered in seven colors and finishes
- Available in sizes 4-12, including half sizes
- Fits slightly large to size; recommend trying a half size smaller
Bridesmaids seeking a traditional block heel but with a retro-feminine twist will be quite content with this elegant patent leather-trimmed buckle version from Roger Vivier. The subtle heel is just two inches tall, and like every pair of Roger Vivier shoes, these will make you feel like the ultimate French cool-girl. Additionally, these have a subtle square toe, soft fabric upper and leather insole which forms to the foot to allow for incredible comfort. Comes complete with a maintenance and care card so you never have to worry about how to care for your shoes.
Aquazzura Sundance 50 Sandals
Most Comfortable
- Offered in three colors
- Available in sizes 5-11.5, including half sizes
- Mirrored leather
- Adjustable buckle closure and covered block heel
- Leather lining and leather insole
For a subtle block heel sandal with a graphic spin, try this quilted, mirrored leather version from Aquazzura. The subtle heel is just 2.5 inches tall, and it has a delicate ankle strap that can easily complement a flowy dress for a beach or a garden wedding. “To give the illusion of length, even with a shorter heel, avoid any chunky straps at the ankle, which visually break up the leg,” says wedding stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz. A neutral color, like a soft metallic or nude, can also help elongate your legs by creating a more streamlined effect.”
Loeffler Randall Camellia Knotted Sandals
Best Ethereal Style
- Offered in five colors
- Available in sizes 5-12
- Adjustable ankle strap with buckle closure
- Textile upper/leather lining and sole
Consider this wrapped heel from Loeffler Randall the perfect party-ready sandal. The crinkled fabric creates an elegant texture, while the subtle heel is 3.75-inches tall for a solid boost of height. The shoe also has a delicate ankle strap, making it the perfect finishing touch for dresses of any length. Customers also praise the style for being comfortable and fitting true to size. Try the blue or sparkly Metro shade for just under $400 for a subtle pop of color and sparkle.
Aquazzura Naked Pump 50
Best Naked Pumps
- Offered in three colors
- Available in sizes 4-12, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
A classic, feminine shoe, this barely-there option from Aquazzura is impeccably crafted in Italy from supple nappa leather in neutral shades of beige, rose and silver metallics and is complete with clear PVC panels to show off a hint of skin. The slingback strap keeps the foot securely in place, while the low block heel allows for day-to-night comfort. Customers love this shoe for its pointed cap toe, which helps to elongate the leg.
Best Bridesmaid Shoes With Platforms
Aquazzura Sinner Plateau Platforms
Best Metallic Platform Sandals
- Offered in the perfect gold metallic color
- Available in sizes 5-12, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
Want extra height and the support while you shake and shimmy on the dance floor until dawn? Go for these disco-glam sky-high platform sandals from Aquazzura. Pair yours with a sparkly mini for a statement from head to toe. Complete with a 5.5-inches tall heel, these are crafted from sleek mosaic nappa leather and feature an open toe with a slender buckled ankle strap. Additionally, these have a padded leather insole for extra comfort.
Brother Vellies Gemini Wooden Sandals
Best Platform Wedges
- Offered in wood with multicolor red, green and yellow leather straps
- Available in sizes 5-11
- Offered in standard width options
One tip to always remember for any beach, garden or mountain wedding? Assume the surface will be uneven. “I’d recommend a wedge to avoid any twisted ankles,” Hurwitz says. Perfect for bridesmaids looking for something special, these Brother Vellies platform wedges have charm-embellished red, green and yellow leather straps and a chunky wooden sole. For added comfort, they include a rubber insole.
Jimmy Choo Drive Ankle Strap Espadrille Sandals
- Offered in two colors
- Available in sizes 5-12, including half sizes
- Offered in standard options
- Runs small, size up
We’ve found the perfect wedge for the minimalist. Made of supple Spanish leather with slender adjustable ankle straps and a square toe, these Jimmy Choo espadrille-inspired platform wedges are ideal for those looking for comfort, elegance and longevity. The heel is 2.25-inches tall and the platform is one-inch tall for added support and balance. These also include a leather upper and lining with a sleek rubber sole. Pair these with your bridesmaid suit, floor length dress or short sheath dress to show off that fresh pedicure.
Kate Spade Bow Ankle Strap Sandals
Best Subtle Platform Sandals
- Offered in four colors and finishes
- Available in sizes 5-11, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
If you want something a bit more subtle, this sexy peep toe style from Kate Spade has a slight platform that offers stability yet doesn’t look too bold. Fixed with a pretty bow accent and think, adjustable ankle strap, customers laud these four-inch heels for being equal parts comfortable and stylish. They come in ivory, navy, black and blush and are perfect for a metropolitan ceremony. “City weddings tend to be a little sleeker and sexier, so look for a strappy sandal or pointy-toe stiletto to match the vibe,” Hurwitz says.
Best Bridesmaid Shoes With Low Heels
Alfani Coreena Square-Heel Dress Sandals
Best Sculptural Heels
- Offered in three colors and finishes
- Available in sizes 5-9, including half sizes
- Offered in standard and wide width options
Bridesmaids desiring a sculpted, architectural and sleek shoe will find these low-heeled options from Alfani to be irresistible. The round-toe beauties have a 2.25-inch cutout heel, featuring elegant gold accents, and a flexible, cushiony sole for comfort. These come in a wide width, making them a great option for ladies with wide feet. At just under $80, we recommend buying them in classic smooth nude, stark white or traditional black.
Neous Petra Slingback Pumps
Best for Minimalists
- Offered in 2 colors and finishes
- Available in sizes 5-11; for half size, size up
- Offered in standard width options
We love this Italian handcrafted kitten heel from Neous. Blending minimal design with an ultra-feminine form, this shoe comes with a sleek double-slingback design, 2.5-inch heel and leather upper, lining and sole. Also perfect for a city wedding, it includes a refined pointed toe that will help elongate the frame.
Gucci Tom Embellished Slingback Pumps
Best Sparkle Slingback Pumps
- Offered in Black
- Available in sizes 4-12, including half sizes
Inspired by archival designs from Gucci’s Tom Ford era, the Tom slingback pumps feature a square toe with a black suede finish and square crystal details. They’re known for comfort and have a leather lining, upper and outsole. These are both modern and timeless and are perfect for a city wedding with a chic pant suit, midi dress or flowy mid-length skirt.
Porte and Paire Braided Leather Mules
Best Braided Mules
- Offered in two colors
- Available in sizes 5-10, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
These colorful Porte and Paire mules are easy to style with a breezy look in the country side or at the beach. Made from buttery-soft braided leather, they have a two-inch heel and will complement printed apparel, soft pastel or monochromatic looks. Offered in classic white or bold green, they’re the perfect shoe to wear long after the wedding day, too.
Coutgo Kitten Heel Mules
Best Kitten Heel Mules
- Offered in eight colors and finishes
- Available in sizes 5-11, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
Classic, feminine and easy to slide on, these kitten heel mules from Coutgo are great for wedding destinations. Whether you’ll be in the city, a countryside garden or shoreside, these are a great addition to most bridesmaid looks. They’re made of vegan leather and suede and offered in an array of neutral suedes, including blush, blue, yellow, nude. Bonus: They also come in embellished options. Underfoot, they have light padding for extra comfort.
Sarah Flint Lamé Dress Booties
Best Bridesmaids Booties
- Offered in five colors and finishes
- Available in sizes 5-12, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
These beautiful Sarah Flint lamé booties are called “The Perfect Dress Bootie,” and for good reason. They have a hidden 10-millimeter platform, six millimeters of extra padding added to the footbed and a center steel heel rod to ensure comfort, durability and security. In addition, this bootie comes with an expanded toe box, anatomical arch support and exquisite scalloped detailing along the sides accented with French binding to create the most comfortable bootie that doesn’t sacrifice style. Bridesmaids who shy away from tradition will be running to buy this bootie.
Manolo Blahnik Serba 70 Bow-Detailed Suede Pumps
Best Bow Embellished Heels
- Offered in classic black and white
- Available in sizes 4-12, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
These sleek feminine pumps from Manolo Blahnik come adorned with an oversized velvet bow and three-inch heel. These are the perfect shoe for a countryside wedding in white or a city wedding in the all-black version. Perhaps one should get both and switch halfway through the night to add a bit more drama to your bridesmaid look. This is a great shoe to pair with an embellished bridesmaid ensemble to add a bit more texture. It even comes in half sizes.
Fashare Buckle Mules
Best Classic Buckle Mules
- Offered in seven colors and finishes
- Available in sizes 5-11, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
Brides looking to try a skinny heel should try a low-heeled option like Fashare’s elegant buckle mules. The subtle heel is approximately two inches tall and these are constructed of soft faux suede with a durable rubber sole. The shoe also includes a padded sole with a foam cushion to secure your foot and add endless comfort, so you can dance the night away with out any issue. We love the classic navy and the sexy red hue.
Best Bridesmaid Flat Shoes
The Row Charlotte Bicolor Leather Tassel-Tie Sandals
Best Flat Sandals
- Offered in metallic pink-purple and black
- Available in sizes 6-11, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
This elegant flat sandal from The Row has foiled edges that are topped with a delicate scalloped trim. The peep toe is perfect to highlight your new pedicure. Your feet are secured with wrap around ankle ties featuring fun tassel detailing that you can adjust to your liking. These have a leather upper, lining and sole to provide the utmost comfort. And, they’re perfect for literally every wedding destination.
Jimmy Choo Ade Imitation Pearl Mary Jane Flats
Best Classic Black Flats
- Offered in classic black
- Available in sizes 4-10, including half sizes
- Offered in standard width options
These beautiful classic black flats from Jimmy Choo come with a subtle square toe, graduated imitation pearls and clear beads that add a unique luster to the straps, allowing for endless styling options. Pair them with a sheer sock and flowy floor-length dress for an added touch fo elegance to your bridesmaid look.
Other factors to consider for the best bridesmaid shoes
When seeking the perfect pair of comfortable and chic bridesmaid shoes, you’ll also want to consider a few other factors:
- Shopping for shoes midday. “I suggest going shoe shopping in the afternoon, towards the end of the day, because that is when swelling occurs,” Dr. Brenner says. “Make sure you’re standing when your foot is measured and that they measure the length and width of your foot.”
- Remember that the higher the heel height, the more pressure is placed on the ball of the foot. “I recommend a heel height of two inches or lower,” Dr. Brenner, says. “If you want to wear higher heels, just make sure you wear them for a limited time. The higher height can also throw off your center of gravity, adding extra pressure on the ankles, knees and hips.”
How to pick the right color bridesmaid shoes for your dress
It’s important to find shoes that complement the colors within your dress. If your dress is bold and bright for a summer or beach wedding, look to styles done in soft neutral colors such as blush rose tones, metallics, pastels or even classic black. If your dress is pastel-colored or a light hue, a soft-colored or silver or gold shoe would be perfect. An embellished shoe is also great for adding texture or extra dimension to a simple look. If your bridesmaid dress is a darker hue, we suggest opting for shoes in metallic hues or neutral colors like black, navy and forest green.
Meet the Author
Elana Zajdman is an editor, writer, stylist and brand consultant living in New York City. She previously was the Senior accessories and jewelry editor of InStyle magazine for six years, where she was an expert on the latest footwear trends by testing and reviewing shoes across a wide range of categories from athletic to party shoes. Prior to her role at InStyle, she has reviewed bridal trends across the accessories spectrum for Marie Claire.
Meet the Experts
Sarah Flint is the founder and designer of her eponymous footwear label, Sarah Flint. Since 2012, the direct-to-consumer company has specialized in creating comfortable luxury shoes for women. The styles, which are made by local artisans in Italy and feature materials sourced from regions around the world, have been worn by everyone from Meghan Markle to Amal Clooney.
Micaela Erlanger is a celebrity stylist based in New York City. Her work has been seen on red carpets and in the pages of top fashion publications worldwide. Her clients include Meryl Streep, Lupita Nyong’o, Common, Diane Kruger, Sigourney Weaver, Lucy Hale, Amanda Hearst and Shailene Woodley. In 2018, she earned The Accessories Council’s Style Influencer award.
Gabrielle Hurwitz is the founder of Gabrielle Hurwitz Bridal Styling, where she helps brides create their ideal wedding wardrobe for themselves and their entire bridal party. Working between New York and Los Angeles, she also coordinates wedding photoshoots for clients. She was previously the h
Dr. Hillary Brenner is a board-certified podiatric surgeon practicing in New York City and New Jersey. She is also an educator and founder of foot care brand Doctor Brenner’s Rx.
