What shoes should the mother of the bride wear?

The mother of the bride should wear shoes that make her feel comfortable, confident, and stylish. Some popular styles to choose from are kitten heels, mules, block-heel sandals, flats, and pumps. If you're unsure about your purchase, it's a good idea to run the style by the bride and groom.

What are some of the most comfortable mother of the bride shoes?

Styles with supportive and stable silhouettes like block heel sandals, kitten heels, and flats will be the most comfortable. Look for shoes with supportive ankle straps and padded footbeds for added comfort and stability. We especially love the Loeffler Randall Dahlia Pearl Pleated Bow Heel .

What colors should the mother of the bride avoid wearing?

While there are no rules as to what color shoes the mother of the bride should and shouldn't wear, it's best to check with the bride if you're not sure about your shoe choice. Generally, it's a good call to go with a color that complements the hues in your outfit or one that matches the overall wedding theme.

20 Best Mother of the Bride Shoes of 2023

mother of bride shoes — Photo by Paris Tews

Once you've secured your mother of the bride outfit, it's time to find the perfect pair of shoes to complete your ensemble. But finding a pair that's fashionable and comfortable can be challenging, to say the least. Fortunately, we've found plenty of wedding-worthy shoes that are so fashionable and supportive you won't want to take them off!

When it comes to mother of the bride shoes, there are so many gorgeous options to choose from. If you're a pro at walking in heels, then opt for elongating pumps or stilettos. The height will improve your posture and consciously help you carry yourself more gracefully. Plus, it will give you a little lift and an even bigger boost of confidence. Pumps are best for indoor weddings with flat surfaces to glide on, while lower heels, mules, block-heeled sandals, and kitten heels are incredibly timeless and comfortable for any formality or venue. For added security, opt for shoes with an ankle strap–ideal for ceremonies on uneven landscapes like the beach or a mountaintop.

To help narrow down your search for your dream mother of the bride shoes, we've researched and selected the top options, keeping style, comfort, formality, and budget in mind. If you love a little sparkle and glamour, strut your way down the aisle in the Badgley Mischka Cher II Embellished Pumps. Looking for something simple and chic? Our favorite picks are the Stuart Weitzman Aleena Metallic Leather Wedge Mules and the Sam Edelman Hazel Pumps.

Read on for the best mother of the bride shoes for every style and season.

Our Top Picks

Best Flats:

Jewel Badgley Mischka Flats at Amazon

Jump to Review

For a Summer Wedding:

Loeffler Randall Pleated Bow Heel at Bloomingdales

Jump to Review

Most Feminine:

Seychelles Neve Heels at Anthropologie

Jump to Review

Most Classic:

Badgley Mischka Kitten Heel Pumps at Nordstrom

Jump to Review

Most Unique:

Jimmy Choo Slingback Pumps at Jimmychoo.com

Jump to Review

Most Timeless:

J.Crew Colette Slingback Pumps at Jcrew.com

Jump to Review

For a Beach Wedding:

Castañer Carina Wedge Espadrilles at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Color:

Jennifer Chamandi Satin Slingback Pumps at Net-a-Porter

Jump to Review

Most Comfortable:

Margaux The City Sandal at Margauxny.com

Jump to Review

For a Subtle Statement:

Vince Camuto Jacolina Heel at Vincecamuto.com

Jump to Review

Nordstrom

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Macy's

Size range: 5-9 | Runs: True to Size | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted with receipt

This Badgley Mischka pair proves that comfortable flats are anything but frumpy. Mixed crystals shimmer and shine along the strap while a pointed toe elongates the leg.

Price at time of publish: $89

View On Bloomingdales View On Loefflerrandall.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size range: 5-12 | Runs: Small | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 14 days of delivery

Walk down the aisle in style with these Loffler Randall sandals. In a versatile metallic hue, this pair can be worn with virtually any mother of the bride outfit. Plus, it features an ankle strap and low-block heel for added support and comfort.

Price at time of publish: $350

Courtesy of Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

Size range: 6-10 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

It doesn't get more feminine than this dainty kitten heel mule. Equal parts classic and comfortable, you'll be dreaming up excuses to wear this pair long after the wedding weekend is over.

Price at time of publish: $139

Badgley Mischka Women's Carrie Crystal-Embellished Kitten Heel Pumps

Courtesy of Bloomingdale's

View On Nordstrom View On Neiman Marcus View On Bloomingdales

Size range: 5-12 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 90 days of purchase

Exude pure elegance and class in these timeless black kitten heels. The crystal embellishment adds the perfect pop of sparkle for when your toe peeps out of your floor-sweeping gown.

Price at time of publish: $235

Courtesy of Jimmy Choo

View On Jimmychoo.com

Size range: 4-13 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted

A low-block heel is a go-to choice for an ultra-comfortable shoe that still feels special. For the mother of the bride who loves to experiment with style, these dramatic and trendy fishnet slingbacks are ones you'll surely wear time and time again.

Price at time of publish: $775

Courtesy of J.Crew

View On Jcrew.com

Size range: 5-12 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Returns accepted within 30 days of purchase

You can never go wrong with a simple yet classic suede shoe. This beautiful blush style goes with everything and is a timeless choice for weddings and formal occasions.

Price at time of publish: $238

View On Amazon View On Net-a-Porter View On Bloomingdales

Size range: IT35-IT41 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 28 days of delivery

For casual seaside nuptials, espadrilles are a stylish and practical choice. This woven wedge practically screams beach wedding and comes in an array of gorgeous colors to suit your style and the venue aesthetic.

Price at time of publish: $135

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

Size range: IT36-IT42 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 28 days of delivery

These gorgeous heels are sure to turn heads. They're perfect for taking you from the ceremony to the after-party, and the vibrant green hue will add a fun pop of color to any outfit.

Price at time of publish: $950

View On Margauxny.com

Size range: 4-12.5 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Free shipping for orders exceeding $100 | Return policy: Free returns accepted for orders exceeding $100

Between the block heel, secure ankle support, and open toe, we've truly never seen a comfortable look so good. With an array of neutral colors to choose from, we're obsessed with this versatile go-to shoe.

Price at time of publish: $298

Courtesy of Vince Camuto

View On Vincecamuto.com

Size range: 5-12 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Free shipping for orders exceeding $50 | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of purchase

For a more understated statement, opt for these black snake-skin pumps. The uniquely shaped heel makes it instantly recognizable. Plus, the stunning color options make it hard to choose just one.

Price at time of publish: $110

Bella Belle USA Open Toe White Ribbon Heels

Courtesy of Bella Belle USA

View On Bellabelleshoes.com

Size range: 5-11 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Free standard shipping for US orders | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

Both sleek and feminine, this silky ribbon-adorned heel is having us do a double take. Plus, its wrap detail is sure to keep you feeling comfortable and secure all day long.

Price at time of publish: $335

Dolce Vita

View On Dolcevita.com

Size range: 4-15 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping for orders exceeding $150 | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

The Noles Heel is available in everything from blush, natural raffia, cork, tortoise, metallic gold, and silver! With its simple and streamlined design, there's an option for every look imaginable.

Price at time of publish: $100

Courtesy of Margaux

View On Margauxny.com

Size range: 2.5-13.5 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Free shipping for orders exceeding $100 | Return policy: Free returns accepted for orders exceeding $100

Simply slip on these flat mules for an effortless option. Adorned with a bow, these Margaux mules are an easy way to elevate a comfort-centric look.

Price at time of publish: $238

DSW

View On Lulus View On Dsw.com View On Macy's

Size range: 6-11 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Returns accepted but return rates vary

Pearls are always a chic and classic choice. The eye-catching ankle detail makes this statement shoe equally secure and comfortable as it is stunning.

Price at time of publish: $119

Stuart Weitzman Aleena Metallic Leather Wedge Mules

Courtesy of Stuart Weitzman

View On Gilt.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size range: 5-11 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted

A wedge sandal is probably one of the most comfortable shoe styles out there. We love this one in particular for its minimalist aesthetic and versatility. This style could easily be worn with a chic pantsuit or a short mother of the bride dress.

Courtesy of Nina Shoes

View On Dsw.com

Size range: 6-11 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Returns accepted but return rates vary

This sparkle-embellished heel screams timeless elegance. The small heel provides a little lift while keeping you comfortable from the moment you walk down the aisle to the last song on the dance floor.

Price at time of publish: $80

Courtesy of Steve Madden

View On Stevemadden.com

Size range: 5-12 | Runs: Small | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

Whether the wedding day is outside on a beach, farm, mountaintop, or you just simply don't like heels, we've got you! These shimmering strappy flats instantly elevate a flat-shoe option.

Price at time of publish: $90

Alex Marie Halmar Multi Ankle Strap Leather Block Heel Sandals

Courtesy of Dillard's

View On Dillards.com

Size range: 5.5-11 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Returns accepted for full-priced items

This multi-colored block heel is all things fun and playful. We love the untraditional pop of color to add to such a joyous celebration!

Price at time of publish: $80

Badgley Mischka Women's Cher II Embellished Pumps

Courtesy of Badgley Mischka

View On Nordstrom View On Bloomingdales View On Zappos

Size range: 5-11 | Runs: True to size | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 90 days of purchase

If you're anything like us, shoes just may be your favorite accessory. So make it known! These crystal-encrusted Badgley Mischka pumps do just that. Pair them with a simple slip dress and let the shoes do the talking–and walking!

Price at time of publish: $265

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Nordstrom

Size range: 4-14 | Runs: Small | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted

A beige pump is as timeless as ever. This pair is a failsafe option for a mother of the bride shoe that you can wear again long after the wedding day. Plus, a tan shoe goes with everything.

Price at time of publish: $140

What to Look for in Mother of the Bride Shoes

Comfort

A beautiful pair of shoes serves as the perfect finishing touch to any mother of the bride outfit. While you'll want to select a pair of shoes that are stylish and season-appropriate, you'll also want to make sure that they're comfortable and supportive, too. After all, you'll be on your feet all day and the last thing you want is to pick a pair of shoes that will pinch and squeeze your feet. Certain silhouettes like sandals with block or low heels and ankle straps will always be a practical and stylish choice–especially for garden or beach weddings.

Style and Formality

You'll also want to consider the aesthetic and formality of the wedding. Black-tie affairs call for more elegant styles, while sandals and casual flats are perfectly suited for laidback beach or garden ceremonies. Looking for something more formal? Opt for satin kitten heels or pumps in rich jewel tones with shimmering embellishments. And for those with traditional tastes, classic pumps in blush or neutral shades are a timeless option that pairs beautifully with all colors and any type of mother of the bride outfit.

FAQ

What shoes should the mother of the bride wear?

The mother of the bride should wear shoes that make her feel comfortable, confident, and stylish. Some popular styles to choose from are kitten heels, mules, block-heel sandals, flats, and pumps. If you're unsure about your purchase, it's a good idea to run the style by the bride and groom.
What are some of the most comfortable mother of the bride shoes?

Styles with supportive and stable silhouettes like block heel sandals, kitten heels, and flats will be the most comfortable. Look for shoes with supportive ankle straps and padded footbeds for added comfort and stability. We especially love the Loeffler Randall Dahlia Pearl Pleated Bow Heel.
What colors should the mother of the bride avoid wearing?

While there are no rules as to what color shoes the mother of the bride should and shouldn't wear, it's best to check with the bride if you're not sure about your shoe choice. Generally, it's a good call to go with a color that complements the hues in your outfit or one that matches the overall wedding theme.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, bridal parties, and more.

The 18 Best Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses of 2023 to Buy Online