Is it appropriate for guests to wear white shoes to a wedding?

In general, most social "rules" say that it's not appropriate for anyone but the bride to wear white to a wedding . You might want to avoid white shoes, but you certainly don't have to.

Should your shoes be the same color as your dress?

You can match your shoes to your dress perfectly, but you definitely do not have to. In fact, pairing a solid-colored dress with bright shoes is a fun way to show off your personality and a splash of color. Another option is to wear nude shoes, like Naturalizer True Color Sandal , as they go with all kinds of outfits.

Can I bring a pair of flats to a wedding?

Yes! Heels can get uncomfortable especially when dancing. Stow away a pair of flats in your purse to slip on when you're ready to ditch the heels.

The 18 Best Wedding Guest Shoes of 2023

Getting ready to attend a wedding doesn't just mean you have to find the perfect dress or jumpsuit—it also means you need to find the perfect pair of shoes to complete your outfit. The best wedding guest shoes are stylish but versatile (think something you can wear more than once!), and chic but comfortable. Bonus: It's even better if you can score a pair that you can wear beyond just weddings or evening events.

Thankfully, there are many different styles you can wear as a wedding guest, ranging from stilettos to platforms to low heels and flats. Since the shoes you wear are dependent on the dress code and venue, we researched different types of shoes to go with all seasons, locations, and levels of formality. We looked for designs that keep your feet comfortable and secure as well as high quality materials that will look good through several wedding seasons.

Our Top Picks

Best Clear:

Tony Bianco Fresco Sandal at Revolve

Jump to Review

Best Nude:

Naturalizer True Colors Vera Ankle Strap Sandal at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Metallic:

Lulus Knotted High Heel Sandals at Lulus

Jump to Review

Best Classic:

Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Toe Heel at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Lulus Suede Ankle Strap Heels at Lulus

Jump to Review

Best Block Heel:

Margaux The City Sandal at Margauxny.com

Jump to Review

Best Heeled Sandal:

42 Gold Slide Sandal at Nordstrom

Jump to Review

Best Platform:

Chinese Laundry Platform Sandal at Nordstrom

Jump to Review

Best Feathered:

Lulus Harlee Pink Patent Feather High Heel Sandals at Lulus

Jump to Review

Best Color Options:

Sam Edelman Kia Block Heel Sandal at Nordstrom

Jump to Review

Revolve

View On Revolve

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

These minimalist slide on heels are ideal for a sleek and barely-there look. The clear straps and neutral tone sole make for the ultimate modern touch.

Price at the time of publish: $155

NATURALIZER True Colors Vera Ankle Strap Sandal

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Catherines.com

Size Range: 4-12 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 16

If you have a lot of weddings coming up, it's best to invest in a nude heel, since you can wear them with virtually any outfit. As an added bonus, nude heels make you look instantly taller by blending into your skin. We like this option from Naturalizer since it has one of the most inclusive shade ranges we've seen. It offers 11 different shades of nude plus staple colors like black and white. With an arch supporting insole and slip-resistant sole, these sandals are ideal for feeling comfortable and confident at a wedding.

Price at the time of publish: $110

Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: 9

Add a touch of whimsy and fun to your look with these shimmering gold heeled sandals. The bow detail on the front is adorable and the block heel is comfortable.

Price at the time of publish: $34

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Samedelman.com

Size Range: 6.5-14 | Heel Height: 4 inches | Colors: 30+

There are very few situations where you can go wrong with a classic pair of solid black pumps. These popular Sam Edelman heels are comfortable, simple, and elegant.

Price at the time of publish: $50

Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4 inches | Colors: 21

Stocking your closet with at least one pair of heels you can wear anywhere is always a good idea. These blush suede heels are a great example. The blocked heel gives you more support, the ankle strap is timeless, and the color is versatile. They also come in a variety of different shades as well!

Price at the time of publish: $38

Margaux

View On Margauxny.com

Size Range: 2.5-14 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 11

Featuring a low block heel and supportive straps, this versatile pair can stand its ground on all kinds of terrain, making it ideal for outdoor weddings that can involve walking on grass or gravel. With a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, there's no need to think twice about hitting "add to cart."

Price at the time of publish: $295

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Zappos

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 4

These low-heeled sandals work for any season spring through fall, and they're pretty versatile. The lower block heels makes them more supportive and comfortable, so you can dance the night away with ease.

Price at the time of publish: $130

Chinese Laundry

View On Nordstrom View On Chineselaundry.com View On Shoebacca.com

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4 inches | Colors: 8

If stiletto heels aren't your thing, but you still want some height, go for a platform heel. It's a bit more supportive and steady. These sandals from Chinese Laundry have a nice block platform heel that looks killer and feels even better.

Price at the time of publish: $80

Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4.25 inches | Colors: 5

These feathery shoes are giving vintage Hollywood glamour vibes, and we are here for it! They might not be a wardrobe staple, but they're so fun and would look great with a simple black dress.

Price at the time of publish: $29

View On Nordstrom View On Bloomingdales View On Bloomingdales

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4 inches | Colors: 26

From Dahlia Pink, Riviera Blue Leather, and Roccia Mamba Snake, to this pretty Misty Lilac Leather, there are there are more than 20 colors and patterns to choose from. Plus, the simply strappy detail and comfortable block heel makes this pair a no-brainer.

Price at the time of publish: $140

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Schutz-shoes.com

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4.25 inches | Colors: 7

Sleek and chic, this pair of heeled sandals are any minimalist's dream. Plus, the neutral color options make it easy to pair with any type of look.

Price at the time of publish: $128

View On Amazon View On Stevemadden.com View On Zappos

Size Range: 5-10 | Heel Height: 4.25 inches | Colors: 10

We're hard-core crushing on these rhinestone-embellished black heels. Sleek and chic, the statement bow adds the most gorgeously glam and ultra feminine touch.

Price at the time of publish: $110

Revolve

View On Revolve

Size Range: 35-41 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: Ivory

A strappy detail makes for an effortlessly dramatic look that is equally elongating for your legs. These Ellery sandals prove just that. Need we say more?

Price at the time of publish: $160

Jimmy Choo

View On Net-a-Porter View On Harrods.com View On Jimmychoo.com

Size Range: 34-43 | Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: 4

Is there anything more chic than pearls paired with a neutral pump? We think not. With your choice of black or ballet pink, this patin-leather pair will undoubtedly complete any polished and sophisticated look.

Price at the time of publish: $850

Nordstrom

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Lyst.com

Size Range: 5B-11B | Heel Height: NA | Colors: 5

If a heel isn't your style, or comfort level, opt for flats. We love these classic Badgley Mischka stunners because their neutral tone and timeless look make them a perfect go-to for weddings you'll attend for years to come.

Price at the time of publish: $89

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Net-a-Porter

Size Range: 5-12 | Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: 13

This just may be the epitome of "pretty in pink." Feminine and soft, this blush hue pairs oh-so-beautifully with the textured material, and of course, the Loeffler Randall's signature knotted bow.

Price at the time of publish: $395

Esme Pink Floral Lace-Up Espadrille Wedges

Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4.75 inches | Colors: White, Black, Pink Floral

A beach wedding calls for wedges, so that your stilettos aren't sinking into the sand. This pair from Lulus gives you nearly 5 inches of height, but a generous platform ensures you're still comfortable. Not only are the straps stylish but they give your ankles extra support as well. They do run large, so consider sizing down for the best fit.

Price at the time of publish: $30

Revolve

View On Revolve

Size Range: 6-10 | Heel Height: 2 inches | Colors: 4

A wedding doesn't require towering heels. For those who want something smaller, these kitten heel shoes are a stylish and chic way to go. They also come in black for an even more versatile option.

Price at the time of publish: $178

What to Look for in Wedding Guest Shoes

Comfort

Most importantly, you'll want to wear shoes that you'll be able to stand, walk, and of course, dance the night away in. Know your tolerance when it comes to wearing heels or any other type of shoe that may cause discomfort. If you rock 4 inch heels regularly, great, go ahead and wear them to a wedding, but it's equally ok to wear low heels or even flats like, Badgley Mishka Slingbacks. If you are going for higher heels, opt for platform styles like, Chinese Laundry Theresa Platform Sandal, to make the heel less daunting. You can also buy your own gel inserts and break your shoes in prior to a full day of wear.

Venue

Equally notable, consider the terrain of the wedding venue. While you may wear stilettos to a black-tie event in a ballroom, you'll probably want to opt for flats or block heels while attending an outdoor wedding. With a low block heel, Margaux The City Sandal is our top pick for outdoor weddings. For a wedding taking place on the beach, we recommend wedges like Lulus Lace Up Wedges. The last thing you want to worry about is your heels sinking into the sand.

Style

Lastly, have fun with it! While many wedding guests may prefer to wear a more subdued ensemble in order to not outshine the bride, shoes are a fun yet subtle way to showcase your style and personality. Lulus Feathered Heels are a great way to add some subtle pizazz to your outfit.

FAQ

Is it appropriate for guests to wear white shoes to a wedding?

In general, most social "rules" say that it's not appropriate for anyone but the bride to wear white to a wedding. You might want to avoid white shoes, but you certainly don't have to.
Should your shoes be the same color as your dress?

You can match your shoes to your dress perfectly, but you definitely do not have to. In fact, pairing a solid-colored dress with bright shoes is a fun way to show off your personality and a splash of color. Another option is to wear nude shoes, like Naturalizer True Color Sandal, as they go with all kinds of outfits.
Can I bring a pair of flats to a wedding?

Yes! Heels can get uncomfortable especially when dancing. Stow away a pair of flats in your purse to slip on when you're ready to ditch the heels.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Jessica Booth is a professional freelance writer. With over seven years of editing experience and three years of professional freelance writing experience, her work has appeared on sites such as Bustle, Insider, Redbook, and Refinery29, in addition to her work with Brides.

The 20 Best Wedding Shoes of 2023 for All-Day Comfort