What is a bridal bootie?

A bridal bootie is a heeled boot that hits at or below the ankle, covering more of the foot than a pump or stiletto. Low-cut ankle boots can be considered a bridal bootie, too.

When can you wear a bridal bootie?

Bridal booties can be worn year-round, though they are often chosen by brides getting married in the fall or winter as they're warmer than other heels and sandals. Many bridal booties work well in warmer weather , such as lace, mesh, and cut-out designs.

How do you style a bridal bootie?

If you want to show them off, pair yours with a mini, midi, or high-low silhouette. They can also be worn with a full-length gown for just a peek of bootie with every step.

Are bridal booties comfortable?

Depending on your personal preference, bridal booties can be a lot more comfortable than heels. Many brides find bridal booties to be more supportive as they cover more of the foot, especially designs that feature a lower stacked, block, or kitten heel.

20 Best Bridal Booties of 2023

wedding day bridal boots — Photo by India Earl

After saying yes to the dress, shoes are often the next step in your wedding day look. While classic pumps, whimsical heels, comfortable flats (and even sneakers!) are popular choices for brides on their wedding day, we understand that they’re not for everyone! And if you're looking for an alternative choice, bridal booties and ankle boots are a fresh option we love. From romantic lace designs to minimalist leather and glitzy takes, there's an array of options on the market that are itching to be scooped up by brides-to-be.

The 19 Best Wedding Shoes of 2023 for All-Day Comfort

Now, before you assume this shoe is only suited to fall and winter weddings, think again. Full-coverage versions are certainly ideal during the cold weather–think high cut and lace-up styles made from supple suede, luxurious velvet, or embossed metallic leather. However, delicate iterations are just as lovely for spring and summer “I do’s,” such as sheer mesh or fanciful lace.

Suppose you love the idea of a bridal bootie but feel like it doesn’t suit your wedding dress, no stress! Booties are an elegant option to pair with other bridal outfits, be it an engagement party, bridal shower, or rehearsal dinner look. “Bridal booties are a fun way to add extra personality to your wedding day look,” says Andrea Louie Brown, BHLDN’s divisional merchandise manager. “They’re a great alternative to heels (and more comfortable!) and can lend themselves to the boho vibe.”

Pia Panaligan, director of styling and visual design at David’s Bridal, adds, “Booties are my go-to option in all situations! I’m very into the short dress with booties and a long veil for the fashion-forward bride—it’s perfect for a low-key ceremony or any party surrounding the big day. Plus, you can re-wear [booties] after wedding festivities have ended for a date night or girl’s night out.”

Meet the Expert

Andrea Louie Brown is a divisional merchandise manager at BHLDN and is based in San Francisco, CA. She oversees buying for all categories at the brand, working with internal and external teams to curate BHLDN’s full product assortment–from wedding gowns to accessories and lingerie.
Pia Panaligan is the director of styling and visual design at David’s Bridal and is based in Philadelphia, PA. With a thorough knowledge of bridal fashion, current trends, and an acute eye for fit and detail, she articulates the brand's voice each season by styling their digital and print fashion editorials and brand visuals.

If you think a bridal bootie or ankle boot is right for you, ahead, shop the edit of 20 styles for every style and budget.

Best Budget Bootie: Penny Loves Kenny Skylar Pump

Penny Loves Kenny White Bridal Skylar Pump — Courtesy of Amazon

Size range: 10 medium-12 wide | Material: Tulle | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted

Romantic and delicate, this sheer bootie is versatile with a range of wedding dresses, from minimal to intricate. The best part, other than their under $50 price? They won’t catch on tulle layers since they’re sans embellishment.

Most Romantic: Bella Belle Nikki Ivory Lace Embroidered Bootie

Bella Belle Nikki Ivory Lace Embroidered White Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of Bella Belle USA

Size range: 5-11 | Material: Embroidered lace, silk, ribbon, and leather | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of receipt

These delicate booties are pretty as can be and perfect for a classically romantic bride. They pair well with duchess satin and embroidered layers of tulle.

Price at time of publish: $395

Best Wardrobe Staple: Lulus Selenah White Pointed Toe Ankle Booties

Lulus Selenah White Pointed Toe Ankle Bridal Booties — Courtesy of Lulus

Size range: 5-11 | Material: Rubber and vegan leather | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

There’s no better bridal shoe than a style you’ll wear again and again after your wedding. This perfectly sleek (and super affordable!) pair of ankle boots fit the bill, appearing elegant with a wedding gown and stylish with everyday staples like jeans, dresses, and skirts post-nuptials.

Price at time of publish: $44

For the Edgy Bride: Jeffrey Campbell Studd Bootie

Jeffrey Campbell Studd White and Gold Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of Nordstrom

Size range: 6-10 | Material: Leather, studs, and synthetic lining | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within guidelines

Western, but make it glamorous in this gold pair of metallic studded booties. Whatever your venue or theme, this Jeffrey Campbell design strikes a chord.

Best Square-Toe Bootie: Zara Heeled Square Toe Ankle Boots

Zara White Heeled Square Toe Ankle Bridal Boots — Courtesy of Zara

Size range: 5-11 | Material: Poly blend | Shipping: Free shipping on full-priced items for orders exceeding $50 | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of shipment date

A square-toe silhouette makes for a sleek and trendy bridal bootie moment. This leather pair has a slight sheen to it, for a dressed-up appeal that’s perfect with wedding attire.

Most Whimsical: Badgley Mischka Isadora Bootie

Badgley Mischka Isadora White Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of Amazon

Size range: 5.5-11 | Material: Leather, mesh, rhinestones, and floral appliqué | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

Flowers! Rhinestones! Beading! Satin! This bootie has it all and is the perfect complement to a whimsical bridal gown with wispy layers of embellished tulle.

Best Gold Bootie: Mia Becar Allegra Bootie

Mia Becar Allegra Gold Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of Mia Becar

Size range: 35-42 | Material: Premium Italian leather and tulle mesh | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted

If you're looking for a golden heel to wear on your wedding day, this elegant bridal bootie is one to consider. The pointed-toe silhouette features mesh panels for the illusion of a regular pump while providing more support around your entire foot—a winning feature when you're guaranteed to be spending hours in heels.

For a Subtle Statement: BCBGeneration Hedina Bootie

BCBGeneration Hedina White Bridal Bootie with Silver Beaded Detail — Courtesy of Nordstrom

Size range: 5-11 | Material: Beaded and synthetic lining and sole | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within guidelines

Chic, sleek, and subtle—but make it a statement. This white bridal bootie does just that with its polished fit and silver beaded detail along the trim.

Price at time of publish: $169

Best Victorian-Inspired Bootie: Fabulicious Victorian-30/IVSA Lace Bootie

Fabulicious Victorian-30/IVSA White Lace Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of Amazon

Size range: 6-12 | Material: Lace and rubber | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted with exceptions

Bridal booties are synonymous with Victorian style, and this affordable pair perfectly captures the mood for retro-leaning brides. The low block heel is comfortable, too, so you can dance for hours, feeling comfy and supported.

For Subtle Glam: Mioke Pointed Toe Dressy Ankle Booties

Mioke Pointed Toe Dressy Ankle White Bridal Booties with Rhinestone — Courtesy of Amazon

Size range: 4-11 | Material: Rubber and rhinestone detail | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within guidelines

Whether you're toeing the line between aesthetics, or always tend toward simple designs with a distinct feature, these bridal boots come with mass appeal. The sleek white leather feels modern and fresh, with a rhinestone detail for a unique, wedding-ready touch.

Best White Ankle Bootie: Schutz Mikki Mid Leather Booties

Schutz Mikki Mid Leather White Bridal Booties — Courtesy of Schutz

Size range: 5-11 | Material: Leather and rubber | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

Simple and sleek, this white ankle boot is impeccably cut, featuring clean lines and a 2.5-inch heel. It's a must for minimalist brides in the mood for a wedding bootie.

Price at time of publish: $158

Best Shimmer: Dyeables Lotus Metallic Shimmer Bootie

Dyeables Lotus Metallic Shimmer Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of David's Bridal

Size range: 5-11 | Material: Metallic mesh and synthetic sole | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 7 days of purchase

With a glamorous '70s feel, these shimmering booties are golden for the bride searching for a metallic shoe. The cut-outs are an alluring touch, from the mesh panels to the exposed ankles.

Price at time of publish: $70

For the Rustic Bride: Freda Salvador Ace Tavi Suede Booties

Freda Salvador Ace Tavi Suede Bridal Booties — Courtesy of BHLDN / Zappos

Size range: 5-11 | Material: Suede, leather, and rubber | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Return rates vary

Suede ankle boots are perfect for the bride with a bohemian sensibility. They're also an excellent option for rustic venues, fall and winter weddings, or engagement photos taken outdoors.

Price at time of publish: $550

Best Lace Detail: Lulus Mazzy Light Nude Satin Peep-Toe Booties

Size range: 5-11 | Material: Satin, embroidered lace, and rubber | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

This lace embroidered bootie simply exudes elegance and practically screams bridal. Its delicacy and open-toe detail makes it ideal for spring or summer nuptials.

Price at time of publish: $44

Most Striking: Rene Caovilla Galaxia Crystal Mesh Metallic Snakeskin Sandals

Rene Caovilla Galaxia Crystal Mesh Metallic Snakeskin Silver Bridal Bootie Sandals — Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Size range: 6-9.5 | Material: Metallic snakeskin, leather, and rhinestone embellished mesh | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of purchase

If your style veers a bit extra—no shame!—this crystal mesh bootie is assuredly for you. They're particularly killer for a New Year's Eve bride and incredible for upping the ante of any wedding-related looks.

For the Dreamer: Zadig & Voltaire Tyler Vintage Star Bootie

Zadig & Voltaire Tyler Vintage Star White Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of Nordstrom

Size range: 6-10 | Material: Leather, synthetic lining, and star embellishment | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within guidelines

Wish upon a star—or a shoe! These star-embellished white booties are perfect for the dreamer. Plus, the low block heel is super comfortable making it even more of a dream on the dance floor.

Best After-Party Bootie: Betsey Johnson Kyla Bootie

Betsey Johnson Kyla Rhinestone Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of Betsey Johnson

Size range: 5.5-11 | Material: Iridescent rhinestones and rubber | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 90 days of purchase

These booties scream razzle-dazzle, making them perfect for the after-party following a wedding reception. Team them with a mini dress to really show them off, and go even bigger with a rhinestone statement earring!

Price at time of publish: $149

For the Western Bride: Dolce Vita Solei Stud Leather Cowboy Boots

Dolce Vita Solei Stud Leather White Bridal Cowboy Boots — Courtesy of Dolce Vita

Size range: 6-11 | Material: Leather | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

These boots were made for walking—down the aisle! Ideal for a barn or western chic wedding, a pair like these white leather stunners speak for themselves.

Price at time of publish: $295

Best Texture: Matisse Caty Ivory Snake Fashion Booties

Matisse Caty Ivory Snake White Bridal Fashion Booties — Courtesy of Boot Barn

Size range: 6-10 | Material: Leather and suede | Shipping: Free same-day shipping on order exceeding $50 | Return policy: Free returns accepted

But your best foot forward in these textured snakeskin booties. We're sure that you'll find yourself grabbing these statement shoes out of your closet long beyond your wedding day.

Price at time of publish: $215

For the Statement-Making Bride: Steve Madden Viceroy Studded Bootie

Steve Madden Viceroy Studded White Bridal Bootie — Courtesy of Nordstrom

Size range: 5.5-10 | Material: Studs, rhinestones, and synthetic lining and sole | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within guidelines

There's no doubt that all eyes will be on you when you strut down the aisle in these ultra-embellished white stilettos. The flurry of these silver spiky studs and dazzling rhinestones just may steal the show. Talk about a dangerously chic bridal look!

What to Look for in a Bridal Bootie

The best news? Bridal booties complement all kinds of wedding attire, from classic gowns to unique bridal separates and jumpsuits. So, no matter the look you're going for, there's likely a bridal bootie to fit the bill. In fact, use your countless footwear options as an opportunity to truly elevate your bridal look in a way that reinforces the vibe of your nuptials. For instance, Victorian-inspired designs will create a romantic and retro vibe, while glittering booties guarantee an incredibly glamorous look. And if you’re embracing a western theme for your wedding, there are even stylish cowboy-boot-inspired styles that look gorgeous when peeking out from a wedding dress. A black bootie is also a gorgeous way to take your bridal look in an edgier direction–especially if you’re wearing a colored or noir gown. Equally important, take into account the grounds you'll be walking (or dancing!) on. Luckily, booties typically provide a lot of support and comfort. However, some are certainly more secure than others. If you know you'll be outdoors, opt for a block heel or a bootie with lace-up detail. Indoor venues allow for more freedom when it comes to choosing a bootie with a stiletto heel. Whichever bootie you ultimately showcase on your big day, make sure to break them in prior to your walk down the aisle—you can thank us later!

FAQ

What is a bridal bootie?

A bridal bootie is a heeled boot that hits at or below the ankle, covering more of the foot than a pump or stiletto. Low-cut ankle boots can be considered a bridal bootie, too.
When can you wear a bridal bootie?

Bridal booties can be worn year-round, though they are often chosen by brides getting married in the fall or winter as they're warmer than other heels and sandals. Many bridal booties work well in warmer weather, such as lace, mesh, and cut-out designs.
How do you style a bridal bootie?

If you want to show them off, pair yours with a mini, midi, or high-low silhouette. They can also be worn with a full-length gown for just a peek of bootie with every step.
Are bridal booties comfortable?

Depending on your personal preference, bridal booties can be a lot more comfortable than heels. Many brides find bridal booties to be more supportive as they cover more of the foot, especially designs that feature a lower stacked, block, or kitten heel.

Why Trust Us / About the Author

Contributing writer Laura Lajiness Kaupke is a writer and editor with expertise covering all things fashion, accessories, and fine jewelry. With a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and as the former senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report and Pop Sugar, she has extensive expertise sourcing and researching the best fashion items.

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