Finding the best bridal shoes means balancing style, comfort, and practicality — because your wedding shoes need to look beautiful in photos, work with your dress, and still feel good after hours of standing, walking, and dancing. You might want sky-high heels with delicate straps or sparkly details, but you also need a pair that won't leave you counting down the minutes until you can take them off.
Luckily, bridal shoes have come a long way from stiff satin pumps that only look good under a dress. Our team tested more than 50 pairs of shoes, including platforms, pumps, sandals, slingbacks, flats, and dance-floor-ready sneakers, to find the styles that actually deliver on both looks and comfort.
Whether you're looking for simple white heels, romantic embroidered pumps, sparkly ballet flats, or something a little edgier for a second look, these are the best bridal shoes for every dress, venue, and wedding-day plan.
And for more of our rigorously tested guides to the best footwear, see our articles on the most comfortable heels, the best flats, the best travel sandals, and more.
If this sounds like you…
- You want a tall, glamorous platform that still feels steady and walkable: Inez Camilla
- You want a cool, sculptural sandal that looks elevated but can still handle a long wedding day: Nomasei Baghera Sandals
- You want a reliable open-toe heel that you can wear for hours of standing, walking, and dancing: Naturalizer Joy Dress Sandal
- You want a romantic, photo-ready heel with delicate bridal details that can peek out from under your dress: Eve Ivory Butterfly Heels
- You want a timeless pointed-toe pump, but you need more comfort, support, and toe room than that silhouette usually offers: Scarlett 75 Pumps
- You want one polished, comfortable bridal shoe that can be styled a few different ways: Alterre White V Mule
- You want a sparkly, elegant slingback that still feels supportive, secure, and easy to walk in: Inez Mia
- You want extra height without feeling like you're suffering through a traditional high heel: Margaux Platform Sandal
- You want a super affordable, festive block heel — especially one that can double as your something blue: Amazon Bow Knot Heels
- You want a comfortable flat for dancing, changing into after the ceremony, or wearing all day: Everlane Day Mary Jane
- You want a cute, comfortable second-look shoe that can carry you through the dance floor: Vivaia Christina
- You want a sleek, high-heeled pump with more cushioning, softness, and flexibility than the average dress shoe: Vida Half D'Orsay
How I evaluated each bridal shoe
- Comfort: For the purposes of testing, I stood and walked around in each pair for at least four hours, including a little dancing. This helped me determine whether the style was comfy enough to wear for an entire ceremony and reception.
- Fit & Support: I also assessed each shoe's supportive features, such as heel stability, arch support, and cushioning. Additionally, I considered how each shoe style might fit a range of feet, from narrow to wide.
- Versatility: In order to determine how versatile each shoe is and what types of celebrations they might be best-suited to, I tested them out on a range of surfaces. This included my home tile and carpet, as well as concrete and grass outside.
- Visual Appeal: The design and shape, quality of the materials, and unique details are just a few factors that can contribute to the visual appeal of a bridal shoe. I took these into consideration when evaluating the photo-readiness of each style.
- Break-in Time: Not every bride has time to "break in" their shoes before the big day. I made sure to take note of whether or not each style was comfortable right off the bat, or needed a little initial wear.
- Rewearability: Many brides would rather invest in a pair of shoes they'll be able to wear again after the big day. So, I also took into account whether each style might work for other post-wedding occasions.
Best overall: Inez Camilla
Who it's perfect for: The Inez Camilla is for brides who want the big, glamorous high-heel moment without spending the whole day thinking about their feet. The silver metallic and cream satin finishes feel festive and bridal, the block heel keeps you steady, and the platform makes the 3.9-inch height feel way less scary than it sounds.
Who should skip it: Skip these if you have extra-wide feet or bunions, since the toe strap doesn't have much stretch, and this style doesn't come in Inez's roomier widths.
Inez is already a favorite with the Business Insider Reviews style team, and the Camilla is one of the best examples of why. Style editor Samantha Crozier has worn her pair to three weddings so far, and writes in her Inez review, "I can't say enough great things about these platform heels. They tower at 3.9 inches, but the platform keeps the pitch shallow and the weight off of your toes." She also said that when she wore the Camilla to a wedding, "I was able to wear them for the full five hours of the ceremony and reception. This included a standing cocktail hour and a full two hours of dancing. At the end of the night, my feet were totally fine — not a blister or an ache to be felt."
Senior associate style editor Gabrielle Chase had a similarly strong first impression. "After breaking mine in on a night out in New York (with no blisters!), I've decided these are the pair I'm bringing to a Rhode Island wedding next month (and the many more nuptials sure to follow)," she writes in her Inez Camilla review. That kind of repeat-wear potential is exactly what makes the Camilla such a strong bridal pick: They're special enough for the aisle, but not so precious that you'll never wear them again.
A lot of the comfort comes down to the Camilla's shape. Its platform and gentler slope keep your foot from being pushed into an extreme angle, so your weight is more evenly distributed rather than concentrated on the balls of your feet.
The Camilla still feels like a real high heel, not a sneaker in disguise. Gabrielle said that after seven hours, "the cushioning isn't as responsive as the Vivaia heels I've tried," so these aren't completely pain-proof. But for something this tall, shiny, and wedding-worthy, it's impressively wearable — and that's why I'd make it the best overall bridal shoe.
Best customizable: Alterre White V Mule + Marilyn Strap
Who it's perfect for: This is one of those rare bridal shoes that feels as good as it looks. It's polished enough for the ceremony, comfortable enough for a full wedding day, and sturdy enough that you won't feel wobbly on your feet. The block heel, cushioned midsole, and optional ankle strap all add support, while the interchangeable straps let you keep the look simple or add a little personality.
Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a very traditional pump or a barely-there sandal. The convertible design is part of what makes it fun, but it may feel like too much if you prefer a totally simple, no-fuss shoe.
What sets Alterre apart is that the brand offers removable and interchangeable straps, thus offering countless ways to customize your footwear. I love that I can pop on the ankle straps in seconds simply by pushing the holes down onto the patented studs built into the bottom of the shoes. And then I can also take them off or swap them out just to achieve a different look.
The Alterre White V Mule is designed with comfort in mind, with an extended point, cushioned foam mid-sole, and block heel. I tried it both with the ankle strap and without, and found that I felt equally comfy in both — although the strap offers a slightly more formal look, as well as little extra support and stability on more slippery surfaces. Because the block heel flares out with a slightly wider base, I feel super sturdy and confident walking in these. I also appreciate that the point is extended to give my toes a little extra room.
I'm between sizes and followed Alterre's advice to size up to the next whole size, which turned out to work perfectly. Pro tip: To give these shoes a pop of personality, consider adding on a statement-making gold metallic or glittery strap.
Best slingbacks: Inez Mia
Who it's perfect for: Brides who love the elegance of a slingback but need more comfort and security than the average pair provides. The elasticized ankle strap helps create a flexible fit, while the plush insole, arch support, grippy sole, and 2.8-inch heel make these feel polished without being punishing.
Who should skip it: Anyone who wants a flat, a true low heel, or an adjustable strap.
Inez has impressed me time and again — and I'm not alone. Not only has the brand made our list of the most comfortable heels, but it also happens to offer some of the best ankle boots, too. So, needless to say, I wasn't surprised to find that Inez makes one of the most beautiful bridal shoes I've ever laid eyes on. It's glamorous but understated, covetable but comfortable.
I'm a big fan of slingbacks, but what makes these special are the elasticized ankle straps that stretch for a flawless, personalized fit. The Mia also boasts a proprietary plush insole with arch support to stave off aches. And did I mention that 2.8 inches is my new not-too-high but not-too-low Goldilocks heel height? It flatters my legs without making my feet cranky. Finally, the leather sole with rubber insert provides ample grip on basically any flooring.
Personally, I adore the silver woven version, which is sparkly without being too showy or over the top and has a glam old Hollywood vibe. These accommodate my wide feet nicely, but I'm confident they would fit and flatter narrower feet just as well.
Read our full Inez review.
Most elegant: Bella Belle Eve Ivory Butterfly Heels
Who it's perfect for: These are for the bride who wants their shoes to have a real moment. The butterflies, embroidery, mesh, and delicate pointed toe are incredibly romantic, especially if your dress has a slit or a shorter hemline where the shoes will actually show.
Who should skip it: They're probably not the pair for someone who wants the most practical or secure shoe possible. The heel is thin and 3.5 inches high, and the ankle strap may need additional holes for a tighter fit. They're beautiful, but they're definitely a style-first pick.
If you're in the market for delicate, romantic heels that are specifically designed for stylish brides, you have to check out Bella Belle. All the heels are beautifully designed and bridal-specific — think pearl motifs, satin bows, and sparkly straps.
"I opted to test their Eve Ivory Butterfly Heels; with a thin, 3.5-inch stiletto, these seemed like the riskiest pair. But I was pleasantly surprised to find that neither the height nor the thinness of the heel was an issue. I walked a mile in them to test, and while I felt a little bit of soreness, the shoes are so cute that I'd wear them anyway.
I love the fluttery 3D chiffon butterflies and embroidered florals. The pointed toe is elegant, and the mesh material is a style detail that I love. In fact, this is a pair that I'm considering for my own wedding next year.
Being really nitpicky, I wish the vamp were a little higher so it fully covers the toe cleavage. I also needed to use a leather puncher to create more holes to really secure the straps around my ankle. But all in all, these are a pair of truly stunning shoes that would look beautiful peeking out from underneath a wedding dress." — Samantha Crozier, style editor, Business Insider Reviews.
Best sculptural sandal: Nomasei Baghera
Who it's perfect for: These are perfect for someone who wants a cool, sculptural sandal that still feels wearable for hours. The soft leather, memory-foam padding, and sturdy block heel make them a great option for weddings where you'll be standing, dancing, and maybe moving between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Who should skip it: Skip these if you really need the locked-in feel of an ankle strap. The V-shape is flattering and leg-lengthening, but it won't feel as secure around the ankle as a traditional strapped sandal.
"The day my best friend got married, I wanted to wear shoes that I could feasibly stand and dance in for at least six hours, and ended up choosing these gold, goddess-like sandals from mid-range luxury brand Nomasei. I risked wearing them right out of the box before I could break them in, and packed six Band-Aids assuming I'd need them all. Reader, I'm happy to report that I shuffled and slid to my heart's content and only sustained one tiny heel blister the entire night.
Their V-shape creates a leg-lengthening effect, which I found more flattering than any sandal with a ankle strap. They're made with a leather that's so soft and flexible that they felt like a second skin. Thanks to the memory-foam padded insoles, I could walk comfortably without getting the metatarsal pain I usually get when I wear heels for too long. Another bonus: when the wedding moved outdoors, their block heels were sturdy enough for grass and too thick to get caught in the slats of the patio, as I saw happening with some of the stiletto-clad guests.
The elegant Baghera sandals pair perfectly with a bridal gown or wedding guest dress, but I loved them so much that next I'm excited to dress them down with some ragg socks and jeans." — Gabrielle Chase, senior associate style editor, Insider Reviews
Best pump: Scarlett Chase Scarlett 75 Pump
Who it's perfect for: This is the pair for brides who want a classic pointed-toe pump, but don't want their toes to suffer for it. The toe box is a little roomier than most pointy pumps, and the cushioned footbed gives them more support than they look like they'd have. They're polished, timeless, and easy to picture with almost any wedding dress.
Who should skip it: Skip these if you're trying to keep your shoe budget low, or if you know you'll want something strappy, flat, or super soft right out of the box. They started off a little snug before molding to the foot.
You can never go wrong with a 3-inch pointed-toe pump — and these timeless beauties would work for a wide variety of wedding dresses, from all-lace mermaid styles to silky slips and full-skirted princess-style ball gowns. While I tested them in a blush pink patent, they also come in other bridal-ready options like a gorgeous bone croc and versatile nude nappa.
When I first slipped the Scarlett 75 Pumps on, they felt a tad snug — but miraculously, within minutes of standing and walking in them, it felt like they expanded and molded to my feet for a flawless fit. Whereas most pointy pumps squeeze my toes, these are thankfully made with a slightly wider toe box.
Scarlett Chase shoes are handmade in Italy, so you know the quality is on point — but what really sets them apart is the thoughtfully designed built-in support system. That includes a patent-pending, orthotic quality cushioned footbed for maximum comfort. The shoes are engineered to distribute weight and pressure more evenly, and I could definitely feel the difference during testing — my feet weren't nearly as miserable as they would normally be after a few hours of wear.
I also love that the heel strikes a nice balance between a streamlined stiletto and a chunky block heel — it looks sleek while still feeling practical.
Best open-toe: Naturalizer Joy Dress Sandal
Who it's perfect for: This is the safe bet in the best way. It's a comfortable open-toe block heel with a padded, supportive footbed and enough stability for a long wedding day. It also comes in a ton of colors, so it's great if you're hunting for a very specific bridal shade.
Who should skip it: Skip it if you don't like open-toe shoes or want something that feels more delicate or formal. The heel is also 3.5 inches, so even though it wears comfortably, it's still not a low heel.
These open-toe heels got the hard-won top spot in our guide to the most comfortable heels. They beat out almost every other pair because of their padded footbed, stable heel, versatile style, and huge variety of colors. If you're looking for a specific shade, make sure to check all the links above, since you can often find unique, wedding-ready colorways like a pastel lilac or metallic tones.
Here's what style editor Samantha Crozier said about them: "You can see how thick the padding is by just looking at it. The insole is contoured to your foot, providing arch support and taking pressure off the balls of your feet. The heel itself is a whopping three-and-a-half inches, but they absolutely do not feel that high when you wear them.
I've recommended these to tons of friends as the perfect wedding guest (or even wedding day!) shoes, and have gotten countless post-event texts about how amazingly painless these are. I've personally danced the night away in these heels at least half a dozen times."
Best budget: ISNOM Bow Knot Heeled Sandals
Who it's perfect for: This is the affordable pick that still feels fun and festive. The bow detail makes it feel party-ready, and the low block heel keeps it practical.
Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a luxury shoe or something very sleek and minimal. The bow gives them a sweeter look that may not work with every dress.
If you're on a tight budget or you already splurged on your dress, rest assured, you don't need to spend a lot on bridal shoes — these ultra-affordable block heel sandals are a stellar option. They come in a number of wedding-appropriate hues, like white, nude, and gold; they're surprisingly well made, and they only cost $50. I bought these in blue for my recent baby shower, but they could also easily serve as your "something blue" on the big day (though they also come in white, gold, and other traditional bridal colors).
Even while wearing these Bow Knot Heels for five hours on a hot and humid day at seven months pregnant, my feet remained happy — and if that's not a testament to the comfort, I don't know what is. The organza fabric and cross-knot bow design give these a party-ready flair, but they're also sensible, too, thanks to the block heel, which is a sensible 2.36 inches, and an adjustable ankle strap. I found that they fit true to size, and I got a ton of compliments on them.
Best flats: Everlane Day Mary Jane
Who it's perfect for: This is the shoe for brides who refuse to be uncomfortable, especially for dancing. It's soft, secure, and easy to wear straight out of the box, with enough cushioning and traction to get through a long night. It's also a strong second-look shoe if you want to change out of heels later.
Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a traditional bridal heel or something sparkly and formal. These are chic and comfortable, but they lean casual compared with the rest of the list.
Everlane's line of Day Gloves has long been our holy grail of comfortable flats. They won our top overall award for the best flats, and nearly everyone on our team swears by them.
Executive Editor Sally Kaplan is so devoted to them that she wore the Day Mary Janes to her wedding. In her Everlane Mary Jane flats review, she wrote about how these were a godsend for post-ceremony dancing and celebrations.
She writes: "I ended up dancing the night away in these with no discomfort, and I've worn them so many times since with casual jeans and T-shirts. The insoles have a little bit of cushioning, and the strap across the midfoot keeps the shoes secure on your feet.
The backs of the heels are soft enough that they won't cause blisters, even when worn straight from the box. The soles are made of rubber with a lot of traction, which makes them great for walking, and I had zero break-in period for these shoes — they went from the packaging to the dance floor without a single sore spot!"
Though Everlane no longer stocks the specific blue velvet color that Sally wore to her wedding, you can get the Day Buckle Mary Jane in wedding-ready colors like blue and pink satin. Or stick to the original Day Mary Jane, which you can get in white.
Best platforms: Margaux The Platform Sandal
Who it's perfect for: This is for brides who want height without feeling like they're balancing on stilts. The platform makes the 3.5-inch heel feel lower, and the block heel plus ankle strap help with stability. It's also especially good if you need narrow, medium, or wide width options.
Who should skip it: Skip it if you don't like the look or feel of platforms, or if you want a closed-toe shoe. The open-toe style feels more spring/summer than winter wedding.
As a general rule, I don't tend to bother investing in heels that are higher than 3 inches (at least not since I turned 35). That said, I couldn't resist testing the Margaux Platform Sandal — even though the heel is 3.5 inches, it feels a lot more like 2.5-inch heels thanks to the 1-inch platform. I was truly blown away at how comfortable these are, and not just because of the platform. They also feature a 5-millimeter layer of foam on the insole, which makes wearing these feel like walking on a cloud.
Margaux's shoes are nothing if not high-quality, and like their other products, these are made with premium Italian nappa leather. I tried the sandals in gold nappa, but they also come in a stunning rose nude and classic ivory. The best part? These shoes are available in three different widths — medium, narrow, and wide — so you can get the best fit for your foot shape. I felt incredibly stable walking around in these, in part because of the block heel and thick adjustable ankle strap.
Due to the open-toe style, I'd say these are a great pick for spring and summer weddings. These also get points for versatility: They're a perfect shoe for vacation dinners, date nights, and cocktail parties alike.
Style writer Jada Wong wore the slightly lower version of these shoes to her wedding. She writes in her City Sandal Review: "I wore the Margaux City Sandal right out of the box for my wedding, and even after 10 hours, my feet didn't hurt or get any blisters."
Best high heel: Antonia Saint The Vida Half D'Orsay
Who it's perfect for: This is for the bride who wants a sleek, high-heeled pump that still has comfort features built in. The soft leather, cushioned design, and grippy outsole help make the 3.5-inch heel feel more manageable than a typical high heel.
Who should skip it: Skip it if you know you'll want a low heel, block heel, or flat by the end of the night. It's thoughtfully designed, but it's still a high heel — so it may not be the most practical choice for grass, uneven ground, or nonstop dancing.
If you've never heard of Antonia Saint New York, this brand makes high-quality, handmade shoes in Spain with sustainable materials and a number of strategic comfort-promoting design features. That includes the patented SoftSurround System — which cushions your feet from every angle (even on the straps).
The moment I slipped my feet into the Vida Half D'Orsay, I could feel the nappa leather stretching around the widest part of my foot — no squeezing or pinching whatsoever. Even though these heels are a whopping 3.5 inches, they don't feel quite so high, probably due in part to the patented SoftSurround System, which cushions my feet from every angle. Lining the upper is an impossibly soft ultrasuede material, and I feel very secure walking in these thanks to the traction-grip outsole.
Did I mention that Antonia Saint wraps all their heels in nylon to prevent unsightly nicks? Genius.
Best second look shoe: Vivaia Square-Toe Lace-Up Sneakerina (Cristina)
Who it's perfect for: This is perfect for brides who want a cute, comfortable backup shoe — or who just don't want to wear heels at all. It has the ease of a sneaker with the softness of a ballet flat, and the ribbon laces make it feel more elevated than a regular sneaker.
Who should skip it: Skip it if you want your wedding shoe to feel formal, structured, or traditionally bridal. These are stylish and comfortable, but they're still much more relaxed than a pump, sandal, or embellished flat.
If a sneaker and a ballet flat had a lovechild, it would be the Vivaia Christina. And with a breathable mesh upper, this particular iteration is ideal for carrying you through a sweltering summer reception or epic dance battle. The Cristina is proof that you don't have to sacrifice style for the sake of comfort: The lace-up style feels laidback while the sheer ribbon gives these shoes an elevated, elegant edge.
I've consistently been impressed by Vivaia's shoes when it comes to comfort, and this particular style is no different. The square toe box is plenty roomy, the elastic back wards off blisters, and the suede-like integrated insole feels like a dream underneath my feet. I can — and have — worn these all day into the night with no issues whatsoever.
That said, they're also a perfect pair to keep on hand if you plan to change out of heels after your ceremony. You can dance the night away without a care in the world. We love the white mesh, but there are also fun satin shades like light pink, blue, ivory, and yellow for a pop of color under your dress.
And while this probably goes without saying, their versatility is practically unmatched. The Cristina is a phenomenal travel shoe, and works equally well to dress down suiting as it does to dress up a distressed pair of jeans.
Read our full Vivaia shoes review and check out more of our favorite ballet sneakers.
A guide for defining your wedding day needs
Before you shop, it's a good idea to consider your wedding's specific demands:
- Venue: At your ceremony and reception, will you be walking on gravel, grass, hardwood, or sand? The surface can help dictate what type of shoe makes the most sense: A wedge, block heel, or flat is better for sand, grass, and gravel, whereas tile and wood flooring can accommodate a slimmer heel.
- Schedule: Do you plan to wear the same shoes from your ceremony to your reception? Or might you want to slip into something a little comfier to dance the night away? We have options that allow you to do both.
- Dress Length: Keep in mind that a floor-length gown won't offer much visibility for your shoes, whereas an ankle-length, tea-length, or shorter style will put your footwear prominently on display. As such, you might go for a statement shoe if your dress is on the shorter side.
- Personal Priorities: Are you most concerned with getting epic detail shots of your bridal look? Or is lasting for several hours on the dancefloor more important to you? Asking yourself these questions can help you narrow down your shoe search.
How to find the perfect wedding day shoe
- Start breaking in your shoes before the big day: At least about two weeks or so before the wedding, you may want to start wearing your bridal shoes around the house. This will help you to figure out whether or not you can realistically wear them for the entire wedding (or need a second pair to change into after the ceremony). It also helps you break in the shoes so you can avoid blisters. Wearing them with thick socks can help to stretch out any areas that are pinching.
- Bring your shoes to fittings: It can be helpful to buy your bridal shoes sooner rather than later once you've chosen your dress, and then bring them with you to every fitting. This way, whoever is in charge of alterations can get a more accurate idea of how much, if at all, the length needs to be adjusted. Not to mention, the height and style of shoes you're wearing can change your posture and the way you walk, which can inform other adjustments the seamstress may need to make.
- Don't be afraid of a little color: Who says bridal shoes have to be white? Blush pink and baby blue can add some playful visual intrigue to an otherwise white ensemble.
- You can't go wrong with a platform: If you love the way high heels look but not the way they feel, a platform offers the perfect solution — giving you additional lift while also helping to ensure more even weight distribution on your feet.
- Have a plan B: Particularly if you're planning an outdoor wedding where conditions depend on the weather, or if you're hoping to stay on the dance floor for the entirety of your reception, you may want to have a more practical backup pair of bridal shoes you can change into — say, some fun sneakers or flats.
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