Your wedding day is one of the most special and unforgettable moments of your life. That’s why it’s only natural to want every detail to be perfect, from the dress and accessories to the shoes that carry you down the aisle. Your gown might steal the spotlight, but your shoes complete your bridal look. The right pair can make you feel elegant, confident, and comfortable as you celebrate every step of the day.
Whether you dream of classic satin heels, sparkling stilettos, or something more modern and unexpected, the right pair will balance beauty, comfort, and personal style. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose footwear that looks stunning and lets you dance, smile, and shine with ease on your big day.
Lace, Beading, or Clean Look?
Opinions vary even among stylists, which is why it’s helpful to get different perspectives before making your final choice. One tip I love is matching your shoes to the hem of your gown.
If your dress has sparkling details at the bottom, why not go for statement footwear that complements the shimmer? For sleek satin or crepe dresses, a clean, classic pump, an open-toe design, or a delicate lace shoe can look stunning. If your gown is lace, pair it with a lace heel for a beautifully cohesive look. And if you can’t find a pair that perfectly mirrors your dress fabric, stick with a simple, elegant design.
If you’re looking for a blend of elegance and artistry, I suggest the artfully designed wedding heels by Badgley Mischka. While many of their designs are beautifully clean and classic, they also offer a stunning array of embellishments. Think delicate pearls, sparkling stones, intricate lace, and shimmering beads. Each of these details adds a touch of glamour. Whether you’re drawn to a minimalist look or something with a bit more sparkle, this footwear feels sophisticated and eye-catching, which makes it a gorgeous finishing touch for any bridal ensemble.
Closed-Toe vs Open-Toe
Another common question from brides is whether to go with closed-toe or open-toe shoes. The answer depends on a few things, like the season and the formality of your wedding. Closed-toe Mischka bridal shoes are ideal for cooler weather and tend to feel more classic for black-tie events, though they’re by no means a strict rule.
On warmer days, open-toe styles are popular and can keep you feeling light and comfortable. Ultimately, comfort and overall style should guide your choice more than anything else. Check out the dressy footwear you already wear and ask yourself whether you usually gravitate toward open-toe or closed-toe styles. Once your dress is hemmed, you’ll likely only catch glimpses of your heels when you walk, so don’t stress too much about every detail being visible.
Heel Height
When it comes to heel height, how a shoe is constructed matters far more than the number on the heel. For some brides, flats are the way to go, offering unbeatable comfort for a long day of standing and dancing. When I shopped for my wedding shoes, I skipped flats because heels naturally improve my posture and instantly make me feel more dressed up, which was important for such a special occasion.
One thing to keep in mind: it can be tricky to start with a higher heel and plan to switch to something lower later. Your dress is hemmed for a specific height, and adjusting it isn’t practical. Choose a heel that balances comfort and elegance from the start so you can feel confident and graceful all day without any wardrobe mishaps.
My Opinion on Flats
The way your dress is hemmed will make a big difference in what people see. Most seamstresses will hem a gown just above the floor, so your Mischka wedding shoes won’t be visible when you’re standing at the altar. The toe of the shoe makes the style statement, rather than the heel. Many brides choose flats for comfort or to balance their fiancé’s height, and thankfully, today’s options are far more stylish than they used to be. Wedding flats now come in chic, fun designs, so they’re a practical yet fashionable choice.
Colour Choice
What colour should bridal shoes be? I suggest going for wedding heels by Badgley Mischka in a colour that matches your dress or adds a playful pop. A soft blue is a classic choice for your “something blue,” symbolising fidelity, and I’m always a fan of a delicate dove blue.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, check for inspiration online. After all, footwear is one of the few places you can sneak in a bold or unexpected shade without overwhelming your look. If you want it to match your gown perfectly, it’s best to stick with bridal-focused brands. They tend to get the whites, off-whites, and ivories just right. Make sure to check the return policy and bring the heels to your first fitting to see if the colour works in person. Some designers can even provide a swatch of your dress so you can test the match at home.
Budget
Designer pairs can easily cost over a thousand dollars, while many beautiful Badgley Mischka bridal heels are available in the $100–$300 range. You can find something special at both ends of the spectrum. If you’ve been dreaming of splurging on a designer pair, the best part is that you can wear them again for other occasions. But if you’d rather save that money for something else, that’s understandable as well. Explore different styles and try on a few during your dress fittings to see what feels right. At the end of the day, your wedding shoes should make you feel amazing and comfortable enough to dance the night away.
