What shoes should my bridal party wear?

While brides might have a preference as to what shoes their crew wears, there really are no rules. Members of the bridal party can opt for heels, sandals, flats, slides, sneakers , or something else depending on the wedding theme and dress code.

Do bridal party shoes need to match?

No, the bridal party does not need to wear the same shoes. However, the bride and bridal party should discuss footwear before the wedding.

Are black shoes appropriate for the bridal party?

Yes! Many people favor black or nude shoes because they can match any color or style of dress.

The 20 Best Bridesmaid Shoes of 2023

Being in a bridal party seriously fun, from picking the dress you’ll don to dancing the night away with your newly-married best friend. Such a momentous occasion requires the best shoes. In fact, the shoes you wear with your bridal party dress might just be the most important part of the outfit.

Since so many gowns feature a slit, showing off your heels will feel extra important when you’re posing for all the photos. Whether you want to wear sky-high stilettos or simple slides, there are plenty of cute and comfy options you can bring with you for the whole wedding weekend. We've tapped the Chief Creative Director of Nina Footwear, Nina Miner, for some tips about what to look for in a bridesmaid shoe and what trends to look out for this upcoming wedding season.

Meet the Expert

Nina Miner is the Chief Creative Director at Nina Footwear.

When it comes to bridesmaid shoes, it's not a one size fits all situation - literally. Luckily, Miner says that variation in bridal party shoes is becoming more popular than ever. "We're seeing bridesmaids' looks becoming less traditional, where gowns and accessories are coordinating rather than being a perfect match," Miner tells Brides. "If the bride is comfortable giving their bridal party some fashion autonomy, while keeping the look cohesive, they can opt for the same shoe in various colors or different shoes in the same color!"

As for trends? Miner says this year is all about color! "We’re seeing dopamine dressing with bright colors in both clothing and accessories – with footwear featured as the item that finishes the total look," she says. "Footwear in rich, satin from pastels to bright colors, add glamour and elegance while sparkling crystals bring the WOW factor." Now, that's definitely something we can get behind.

To help you with your shoe search, we've rounded up our favorite bridesmaid shoes for every style and budget. Below, 20 gorgeous bridal party shoes you'll wear long after the couple says "I do."

Best Block Heel: Nina Nayley Shoe

Size Range: 5-10 | Heel Height: 2.36 inches

Block heels are always a go-to when it comes to stylish and comfortable footwear. We love that this pair from Nina comes in seven different color options, so there's a shoe for every bridal style.

Price at time of publish: $89

For a Winter Wedding: Nina Contessa Shoe

Size Range: 5-12 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches

Not sure what shoe to put your bridal party in for a winter wedding? Consider this deep navy blue heel from Nina. It's elegant and elevated, plus the heel height is easily manageable.

Price at time of publish: $89

Best Pop of Color: Nina Dalva Ultra Pink Satin Shoe

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4 inches

Looking for a bold and playful shoe for your bridal party? We adore these statement-making pumps, which feature dramatic feather detailing and crystal-embellished straps.

Price at time of publish: $99

Best Sparkle: Stuart Weitzman Amelina Metallic-Stiletto Heel Sandals

Size Range: 4-12 | Heel Height: 2.75 inches

You know what goes with everything? Sparkles. Whether you have your bouquet nailed down or not, this sparkly shoe will be sure to charm any outfit.

Best for a Beach Wedding: Reformation Millie Sandals

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: Flat

This beachside sandal ensures that you will stay comfy on your toes all night long. Plus, these sandals are available in silver!

Price at time of publish: $148

The Perfect Nude: Salone Monet Anita Pump

Size Range: 6-12 | Heel Height: 3.3 inches

You can never go wrong with a classic pump. The best part about Salone Monet shoes is that they come in a variety of different nude skin tones, meaning you’ll always find the right nude for you.

Best Gold Shoe: Loeffler Randall Daliah Bow Low Heel

Size Range: 5-12 | Heel Height: 2 inches

This gorgeous golden number will be the icing on your ensemble. Best of all, the ankle strap ensures the shoe won't slide off as you walk down the aisle.

Price at time of publish: $350

For a Garden Wedding: Lulu's Pink Satin Heel

Size Range: 5.5-11 | Heel Height: 4.25 inches

We can't help but imagine bridesmaids walking down the aisle in these satin strap heels at a garden wedding. The rose-shaped embellishment at the toe is sure to be a hit.

Best Touch of Bling: Jewel Badgley Mischka Evening Sandal

Size Range: 5-8.5 | Heel Height: 3 inches

These fun chunky sandals have just a touch of bling at the front strap, making them a gorgeous accent to peek at under your long gown. Choose between rose gold, champagne, silver, navy, or gold!

Price at time of publish: $99

Best Clear Shoe: Schutz Clear Strap Slide

Size Range: 5-8.5 | Heel Height: 3 inches

One way to make your legs look longer instantly? Clear shoe straps! This trend isn't’ going anywhere, and we love that this pair is breathable.

Price at time of publish: $118

Best Classic Black: Stuart Weitzman Nudistsong Heel

Size Range: 4-12 | Heel Height: 3.25 inches

A must-have classic, this Stuart Weitzman pumps will become a staple shoe in your closet. You’ll reach for it long after the couple has said their “I dos."

Best Pearl Accents: Steve Madden Zelle Shoe

Size Range: 5.5-11 | Heel Height: 4.5 inches

These sophisticated and chic heels feature pearl embellishments along the sole of the shoe. The neutral colors pairs perfectly with any color bridesmaid dress.

Best Platform: Reformation Maize Platform Sandal

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 2.95 inches

A nod to the 70s, these five-inch praline platform sandals will give you all the added height while the flared heel gives you added support. Pair with a short dress to really show off the shoes.

Price at time of publish: $278

Most Affordable: Zara Patent Slingback Heels

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 2.8 inches

Not quite sure what color the bridal party dresses will be yet? Not to worry, you can assign this classic slingback heel to everyone in your crew.

For a Touch of Color: Staud Pippa Heel

Size Range: 5-10 | Heel Height: 4.5 inches

These grapefruit mules will add just a hint of pink to your look for the wedding and beyond. The heel height is just right, guaranteeing a bit of height without sacrificing comfort.

Best Heel: RAYE Sabrina Heel

Size Range: 5.5-10 | Heel Height: 4.5 inches

These are not your typical bridal party shoes! This leather slingback features heel detailing, making for one very chic pair of pumps.

Price at time of publish: $178

Best Wedge: Jeffrey Campbell Appetito Shoe

Size Range: 5.5-10 | Heel Height: 4.5 inches

We love these natural colored wedges for a classic and chic bridal party shoe option. This style allows your bridesmaids to have a bit of height without sacrificing comfort.

Price at time of publish: $130

Best Silver Shoe: Sam Edelman Yaro Block Sandal

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4 inches

Maybe gold isn’t really your thing—not to worry! You’ll still shine bright in this silver pump. You can even choose the width you prefer for ultimate comfort.

Price at time of publish: $130

Best Flat: Guilhermina Ballet Mules

Size Range: 36-41 | Heel Height: 0.25 inches

Who says you have to wear a heel? Opting for this pretty flat means you won’t want to change into flip-flops at the end of the night.

Price at time of publish: $98

The Best Strappy Sandals: Sam Edelman Daffy Sandal

Size Range: 5-10 | Heel Height: 1 inch

Looking for a strappy gold sandal you can wear all night? Look no further than this delicate yet functional sandal that will keep you comfy even for the after-party.

Price at time of publish: $130

What to Look For When Shopping For Bridesmaid Shoes

Searching for the perfect bridesmaid shoe is difficult, and the chances of one shoe working for every bridesmaid are slim. Whether you are choosing a uniform shoe for your bridal party or letting them take it into their own hands, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Miner says that when it comes to style, platforms are the way to go. "The bridal party is on their feet for most of the day, so it's important that their shoes are comfortable and can take them from the ceremony through the last dance," says Miner. "For bridesmaids who are looking for a shoe with height, a platform will cushion the foot, lengthen the leg and add glamour to every look." Nina also says that block heels are a chic and functional choice for bridesmaids. "On many bridesmaids’ short lists are the block heels that have become a chic choice for their styling and added comfort," she adds. Also, a block heel is a great option for a backyard or outdoor wedding with grass.

Keep in mind that heels aren't the only option when it comes to bridal party footwear. If you are having a summer wedding, consider a dressy sandal or for winter a ballet flat. Variation within your bridal party is completely okay and can add dimension to the overall look.

FAQ

What shoes should my bridal party wear?

While brides might have a preference as to what shoes their crew wears, there really are no rules. Members of the bridal party can opt for heels, sandals, flats, slides, sneakers, or something else depending on the wedding theme and dress code.
Do bridal party shoes need to match?

No, the bridal party does not need to wear the same shoes. However, the bride and bridal party should discuss footwear before the wedding.
Are black shoes appropriate for the bridal party?

Yes! Many people favor black or nude shoes because they can match any color or style of dress.