the perfect wedding shoes

Your shoes play an important role in setting your overall wedding day. Ideally, they should be a perfect combination of style and comfort, and should fit like a glass slipper.

stepping out

Here's the golden rule for finding the perfect shoes for your wedding day: start the search as soon as you have chosen your gown!

You will discover that a huge range of beautiful bridal shoes is available: from mules, boots, and court shoes to sling backs and sexy ankle straps, with finishes in satin,  damask, brocade, pearlised leather, and trims that include beads, lace, ribbon and embroidery. You can even have your shoes covered or dyed to match your gown. Your choice in shoes will set you apart on the day, ensuring that you look radiant from head to toe.

every step of the day

However, you should bear in mind that your shoes will be with you every step of the day: as you walk down the aisle; stand during the ceremony; possibly kneel at the altar (at which point your guests may be able to see the soles of your shoes, so be sure to
peel off any price tags); as you have your wedding photographs taken; meet and greet your guests; and dance at your reception. Of course your shoes must be beautiful, but they must also be comfortable and fit your feet securely.

paying the price

When you find the perfect pair of shoes, it's worth paying the price. You may well regret purchasing a cheaper pair that doesn't fit quite as well or is not exactly the style you
wanted. One way of offsetting the cost of your shoes is to select a pair that you can either wear again just as they are, or dye another colour after your wedding day.

a specialist boutique

Wedding shoes should be well designed and of very high quality. Make sure they are fitted correctly in order to grip your heel and allow room for your toes. Your feet may swell slightly as your wedding day progresses, so ensure there is a little extra room in your bridal shoes.

A number of bridal gown stores stock wedding shoes, but for the best selection and expert advice, visit a specialist boutique. They know bridal shoes like no other and can help you select shoes that will not only suit your bridal ensemble, but will also fit extremely well and will remain comfortable throughout the day.

exquisite style - expedient design

lf you don't usually wear very high heels, avoid them on your wedding day. High heels can be hard on your feet and legs if you aren't used to them, and a stumble or a
sprained ankle is the very last thing you want. So, no matter how much having that extra height might tempt you, don't succumb! Remember, when it comes to bridal shoes, there are no rules on heel size or toe shape. You should choose to suit your personal taste and comfort.

You will also need to find shoes for your attendants. It is well worth scheduling a trip together to your bridal shoe retailer. You can then be assured that your attendants' shoes fit correctly, match their gowns and complement your own shoes.

perfect match

When searching for shoes take a swatch of your dress fabric so you can make an exact colour match. If you can't find a perfect match for you or your bridesmaids, consider getting shoes dyed or covered. And for a look that's a little different, try some decorative shoe clips. They're a fabulous way of personalising your shoes, so don't be afraid to add your own touches.

getting to know you

Purchase your shoes well in advance so you can wear them around the house. This will allow you to get used to the feel of your shoes, as well as break them in. To prevent them getting dirty, you may want to wear clean socks over them. If the soles are slippery, scuff them gently on a rough surface (a concrete path or driveway is perfect), or score them very gently with the tines of a fork. This will prevent them from sliding on carpet or slippery tiles and will make you feel much more secure on the day.