While everyone loves shopping for bridal accessories, it can be a challenge when there are so many options particularly when it comes to your wedding shoes. One major decision is balancing style and comfort. Here are five tips for looking for wedding shoes to help attain that balance.

Find Your Wedding Dress First

While it might be more fun to start shopping for accessories before you find your dress, you need to find your dress before you start thinking about your shoes. Not every shoe will look appropriate for a particular dress. Heel height is an important consideration. You will need the shoe before your final fittings. You also want your footwear to complement your dress in style, color, and embellishments.

Consider the Location

Location matters when looking at the shoes you want for your wedding. If you’re doing a traditional wedding in a church or indoor hall, you have a little more flexibility when it comes to your bridal footwear. If you’re getting married in an outdoor location, heel height and style may play a more important part of your decision.  For example, a stiletto heel might not be the best shoe for a ceremony on grass; a chunky heel may be a better choice.  Alternatively, a flat or some sort of sandal would be appropriate. Likewise, for a beach wedding, sandals are your safest choice.

Put Your Comfort First

Make sure the shoes you are considering are also comfortable. You don’t want your wedding day shoes to pinch your toes, nor do you want them to be too big. Be sure to wear them regularly so they will mold to your feet. Consider an alternate pair of shoes for your reception, particularly ones that will allow you to move comfortably on the dance floor.

Shop Around for Different Styles

As noted above, once you’ve selected the style of shoe you want, go to a store and try them on. While trying them on, walk around the store as long as you need to. You want them to feel comfortable before leaving the store. It’s okay to explore two or three different stores before purchasing the shoes you want for your wedding day.  Most wedding shoe stores are used to brides shopping around and they may be willing to hold a pair for you for a week or so while you continue to shop.

Consider Having A Backup Pair

Broken heels happen when you least expect them, so you want to make sure you have at least one pair of backups for your primary wedding shoes. Ensure the backup pair are similar enough so that they work with your dress without needing emergency alterations. Again, as noted above, keep your location in mind when selecting your backup pair.

Consider these tips when shopping for your wedding shoes. If you’re in the market for a bridal gown, check out our bridal collection.