From aisle to afterparty: wedding shoes brides swear by
When it comes to wedding planning, the spotlight is often on the dress. But what about the wedding shoes that carry you through the day? From teary-eyed vows to dance floor twirls, your shoes are with you every step of the way (excuse the pun).
So, we took to Instagram and asked real brides to weigh in on one of the most hotly debated bridal topics: can you really have both comfort and style when it comes to wedding shoes? Spoiler: The answer is yes — and the best part? You don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.
Shoes by Pink Inc
Comfort is queen (according to 67% of brides)
Let’s get straight to the stats.
It’s no surprise that comfort remains a top priority. When asked how important comfort is in their choice of wedding shoes, 67% of brides said it’s very important. Many of our respondents put it plainly: “No blisters on my big day.”
Another 29% said comfort was somewhat important, suggesting a willingness to compromise for the right look. Just 5% said they prioritised style over all else, embracing fashion at any cost.
For most, however, the dream shoe is one that doesn’t require a compromise at all.
View this post on Instagram
Wedding shoe changes: yay or nay?
Wedding wardrobes are becoming increasingly dynamic, with many brides opting for an outfit change after the ceremony, often from a traditional gown into something shorter or more relaxed for the reception. But what about the shoes?
In our poll, 43% said they planned to keep the same dress and shoes on all day, suggesting the importance of choosing a pair that can comfortably last 12+ hours. Meanwhile, 20% said they’d be switching shoes to suit their second look, and 26% said no — they’d change the dress but keep the same shoes. The remaining 11% were still undecided.
The data reflects a practical approach: even if a second look is on the agenda, shoe changes aren’t a given.
Real bride recommendations
The best endorsements come from women who’ve been there. Here’s what brides had to say about the brands they chose, and whether those shoes lived up to the comfort promise.
- Bared: Described as “very comfy” by multiple brides.
- Bella Belle: Popular for style and durability; one bride noted hers lasted 12 hours.
- Pink Inc and Novo: Both flagged as stylish and surprisingly wearable.
- Dancing GaGa: Another yes on comfort.
- And, of course, Louboutin got a mention, though without a comfort verdict (we can guess which category that one might fall into).
Shoes by Sophia Webster
Heel heights: moderation wins
Gone are the days when towering stilettos were the norm. Only 8% of brides said they were going for a high or very high heel. Instead, most are opting for something more manageable: 44% chose a medium heel, and 39% are going small. A further 8% are skipping heels altogether in favour of flats.
Whether that’s a block heel for outdoor stability or a dainty kitten heel to extend wear time, lower heels seem to be winning the practicality vote.
Style without the sacrifice
While the idea of sacrificing comfort for style may have once been standard, the current trend leans toward smart, functional design. Many brands are responding with wedding collections that prioritise structure, cushioning, and support, without compromising on design.
Textural details, sculptural heels, and delicate embellishments now sit alongside arch support, soft linings, and breathable materials. Brides no longer have to choose between shoes that look good in photos and ones that hold up after five hours on the dance floor.
View this post on Instagram
The results are in: comfort is the new luxury in wedding shoes
Your wedding day isn’t just about looking good: it’s about feeling good, too. The right wedding shoes can carry you through every moment, from the aisle to the afterparty, without leaving you counting down the minutes until you can take them off.
As our poll revealed, most brides are no longer willing to suffer through pinched toes or sky-high heels that only look good in photos. Instead, they’re choosing smart, well-made footwear that still delivers on style. Whether it’s a low block heel with hidden padding, a sculptural sandal with arch support, or a delicately embroidered flat, the new generation of wedding shoes proves you don’t need to compromise.
In the end, comfort and style aren’t opposing forces – they’re the new standard. And if you’re still deciding what to wear on your feet, take it from the brides who’ve been there: beautiful wedding shoes that feel as good as they look do exist.
View this post on Instagram
Ready to find your perfect wedding shoes?
At Easy Weddings, we work with a curated selection of trusted wedding shoe suppliers offering everything from elegant heels and embellished flats to comfort-first designs made for dancing all night. Whether you’re after something classic, bold, or low-key luxe, you’ll find styles that suit every wedding dress and every kind of celebration.
Browse our directory to discover wedding shoes that look the part and go the distance — because your big day deserves shoes that feel as good as they look.
