Wedding shoes for the bride: how to choose and buy well
Shoes you will dance in all day
Wedding shoes are worn from morning to night: getting ready, the ceremony, the photo shoot, the reception. So a beautiful pair on a thin stiletto heel often loses to a comfortable pair on a stable heel. Think about whether you will change into a second pair for dancing, and start from that.
What to look at before ordering
Heel. A height of up to 7 cm and a wide, stable heel or a platform usually last the whole day better than a stiletto.
Material. Satin and fabric look lovely but get dirty quickly and don't like moisture. Leather or faux leather is more practical outdoors.
Colour. Choose the shoes in daylight and together with the fabric of the outfit: ivory next to pure white looks yellowish.
Shape. A closed toe, an ankle strap or an open peep-toe sit differently on the foot.
Buy the pair well in advance and break it in at home, on a soft floor, for an hour or two at a time. For a new pair on the wedding day this is the best insurance against blisters.
What to put in your request
- type of shoe – pumps, sandals, flats, platforms;
- heel height – in centimetres, stable or stiletto;
- size – UK size or insole length in cm (for example, 24.5 cm);
- colour and material – ivory, champagne, satin, leather;
- decoration – crystals, pearls, a bow, none;
- condition – new or second-hand;
- wedding date, so the seller can deliver in time;
- budget, if you want to state it.
Example: “I'm looking for new wedding pumps, ivory, satin, 6 cm stable heel, UK size 5 (insole 24.5 cm). Decoration with pearls, no big bows. Wedding on 23 August, city Ottawa, budget up to $120.”
How to compare offers
Size is the main risk when you buy without trying on. Brands' size charts differ, so compare by insole length. Ask whether you can exchange the pair if it doesn't fit, and whether you can try it on at delivery.
Look at the sole: a smooth sole slips on tiles, so you can ask for an anti-slip pad. For second-hand shoes, ask how many times they were worn and whether the shape has stretched.
How it works on BlaBlaPrice
You describe the shoes once, and sellers answer in the chat with photos, price, terms and delivery time. BlaBlaPrice shows the offer that gives the best value first, and reviews of the seller are next to each one. Sellers see their place among the others and often improve their terms. Your phone number stays hidden until you choose a seller. For details see the “How it works” page, and you can create a request here.
To go with the shoes, look at wedding dresses and bridal accessories. Everything is in one place in the “Wedding” section.
