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Updated Oct 14, 2024The Best Wedding Guest Shoes Based on Your Top Searches
Show off your moves in some comfortable shoes—and look good doing it.
Graphic: Natalie Romine
Wedding season is fun, but it can also be, well, tough on your feet. Wedding guest shoes present a conundrum: They have to be both stylish and comfortable enough for a long day and night on the dance floor. Plus, they have to match the dress code, which can vary by season and formality (check out our guides for wedding guest dressing for help in that arena).
So, where to begin? You may be searching for a pair of classic black pumps for a black-tie event, strappy sandals for a beach wedding, or, maybe just comfortable wedding guest shoes. We rounded up our top picks for the best shoes for wedding guests based on some popular search-engine inquiries, and have plenty of shoppable links for you to check out. So, why wait for the other shoe to drop? Let's jump right in.
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In this article…
- Where to Find Cute & Comfortable Wedding Guest Shoes
- 12 Best Heels for Wedding Guests
- 12 Best Flats for Wedding Guests
- How to Choose The Right Shoes for a Wedding Guest
Where to Find Cute & Comfortable Wedding Guest Shoes
When it comes to finding comfortable shoes for wedding guests, these are a few of our favorite places to begin the search. They have stylish options for any dress code, plus, they all offer shipping straight to your door. Browse through their sites and get ready to hit 'add to cart'!
Margaux: Thought size inclusivity only pertained to clothing? Think again. Margaux offers wedding guest shoes for everyone sizes 3 through 14. Plus, all of their styles are available in standard, narrow and wide, making it easy to find just the right fit.
Aerosoles: Aerosoles are 'designed for those who do it all'. So, if you're looking for a pair of comfortable shoes you can on wedding days and work days, this is the brand for you. Not to mention, they have plenty of options under $100.
Reformation: Stylish and sustainably made? What more could you ask for! You probably know Reformation for their trendy wedding guest dresses, but did you know they also carry shoes? That's right—they're a one-stop shop for all your wedding guest attire needs.
12 Best Heels for Wedding Guests
When getting ready for a wedding, or any special occasion for that matter, heels might seem like the obvious choice to complete your look with. It makes sense, really. The extra boost in height that they give you can mean the difference between tripping over fabric the whole night, or staying in the clear. Not only that, but they also look really elegant (but you already knew that). The problem is that weddings require you to be up on your feet throughout much of the day (I mean, you were planning on hitting the dance floor, right?). The good news, however, is that you don't have to resort to slipping off your shoes at the end of the night. There are plenty of heels for wedding guests that offer both style and comfort.
We love supportive styles, like block heels, wedges and platforms, which offer all the height of a pair of stilettos, without any of the discomfort. Of course, you can never go wrong with a classic set of kitten heels either. But, since you're the one on the guest list, we'll let you decide which are the best heels for wedding guests. Keep scrolling to browse our shoppable picks, then seamlessly shop your faves with the click of a button.
Margaux The City Sandal in Saddle Nappa
Photo: Margaux
Size Range: 3 - 14 (Available in Narrow and Wide)
Review Spotlight: "Love these shoes! They are so stylish and super comfortable. I wore them and stood all night and my feet didn't even hurt the next day. Perfect shoes for summer!" - Amy B.
Dolce Vita Bev Heels in Gold Metallic Leather
Photo: Dolce Vita
Size Range: 5 - 15 (Available in Wide)
Review Spotlight: "These are great! I need heels with an adjustable strap because I have such narrow feet. I have always felt Dolce Vita shoes run wide, especially their loafers, which I always go a half size down. Not these though–Perfection!" - Stephanie
Sam Edelman April Platform Sandal in Sand Raffia
Photo: Sam Edelman
Size Range: 5 - 11
Review Spotlight: "Sam Edelman's shoes are always a win. These are comfortable, cute and sexy too. Also good quality. I always keep coming back to Sam Edelman when I need shoes."
Reformation Maize Platform Sandal
Photo: Reformation
Size Range: 5 - 11
Review Spotlight: "Wore these to a Spring wedding. So comfy! I danced for hours with no discomfort or blisters. Great purchase, highly recommended." - Hamrony, Anthropologie
Sézane Fausta Clogs in Natural Heritage
Photo: Sézane
Size Range: 5 - 11
Review Spotlight: "First of all, these are SO comfy. I'm a real estate agent and sometimes can walk up to 3 miles a day during showings. I've really struggled to find shoes that are both comfy and cute. These fit the bill!" - FlexPointe, Reddit
Reformation Wade Kitten Heel in Black Satin
Photo: Reformation
Size Range: 5 - 11
Review Spotlight: "They are exactly as pictured. The heel is the perfect height for an upcoming wedding. They're beautifully made. They will be my go-to event shoe!" - ShoppinginMN, Anthropologie Reviewer
Loeffler Randall Camellia Champagne Pleated Bow Heel
Photo: Loeffler Randall
Size Range: 5 - 12
Comfy block heels and luminescent bows make the Camellia heels the perfect dance floor shoe. However, do note that they run on the smaller side. Reviewers recommend sizing up a ½ size for average width feet and one full size for wider feet.
Naturalizer 27 Edit Faith Pump in Black Leather
Photo: Naturalizer
Size Range: 5 - 12 (Available in Wide)
Review Spotlight: "I am absolutely amazed at how comfortable, and fashionable these shoes are! They exceeded my expectations. They are true to size. They were so great I bought them in nude as well." - MOGcamp
By Anthropologie Thong Kitten Heels in Dark Brown
Photo: Anthropologie
Size Range: 5.5 - 10.5
Review Spotlight: "These flip flops are a MUST-HAVE! They are super cute and they go with everything. You can dress them up or down." - Jenny T.
Lulus Aribaa Light Nude Lace-Up High Heel Sandals
Photo: Lulus
Size Range: 5 - 11
Review Spotlight: "These were so stunning with my dress, and I was able to dance for hours at the wedding I attended. They are THAT comfortable." - Leona L.
Maeve Strappy Wedge Heels
Photo: Anthropologie
Size Range: 5.5 - 10.5
Review Spotlight: "I purchased these shoes to complete my outfit for a May wedding. I wore teal with gold accents…and these shoes completed the look perfectly! They fit true to size and are sturdy." - Lucy
Betsey Johnson Mari Sandals in Champagne
Photo: Betsey Johnson
Size Range: 5 - 11
Review Spotlight: "They felt comfortable enough to wear for hours and dance in! I was the only person at the wedding that was able to keep their shoes on until the night's end!" - Laura D.
12 Best Flats for Wedding Guests
If there was ever a time when you should be totally honest with yourself, it's when you're picking out a pair of wedding guest shoes. Sure, there are plenty of comfortable options with a heel, but if you're not used to walking (or dancing) in them, it could be a recipe for disaster. Flat shoes, on the other hand, are always a safe bet when it comes to spending long hours on your feet.
A pair of sandals can offer just what you need in terms of style and comfort. Plus, more elevated pairs—especially ones with embellishments—can look just as elegant as a pair of heels. Of course, they're not the only option when it comes to flat shoes for wedding guests. Ballet flats, loafers and mules are all great choices as well. So, if you're ready to say goodbye to sore feet, you're in luck. We've rounded up all the best flats for wedding guests. Browse through our shoppable picks and get ready to dance the night away!
Reformation Mirella Flat Sandal in Black Suede
Photo: Reformation
Size Range: 5 - 11
Review Spotlight: "No slipping and stays on foot when walking. Really like the shoe." - Ragsi, Anthropologie
Dolce Vita Reyes Ballet Flats in Ivory Leather
Photo: Dolce Vita
Size Range: 5 - 15 (Available in Wide)
Review Spotlight: "Color is spot on and amazingly soft! I never hesitated putting these beauties on the next day for work, afternoon downtown, meeting and a Broadway Lights Play with the Hubbie! Worth every penny. Now, what color to buy next?!" - Christy D.
Loeffler Randall Izzie Champagne Leather Knot Sandal
Photo: Loeffler Randall
Size Range: 6 - 12
According to reviews, the Izzie sandals run true-to-size and are designed to fit slightly snug on the feet, so as to not slip off while you're on the move (or on the dance floor).
Kelly & Katie Nymie Sandal in Cognac
Photo: DSW
Size Range: 6 - 11 (Available in Wide)
Review Spotlight: "I walked three miles one day in these sandals and they were very comfortable. Plus, they're cute with dresses, shorts and jeans. I highly recommend them." - Ellie
Margaux The Demi Flats in Ballet Pink Nappa
Photo: Margaux
Size Range: 3 - 13 (Available in Narrow and Wide)
Review Spotlight: "Love the fit and color! I walked a few blocks and they didn't need any break in time, plus they felt great after almost an hour of being on my feet (walking, standing etc). I should've sized down by a half for a snugger fit." - Sharath K.
Aerosoles Jacky Sandal in Tan Faux Leather
Photo: Aerosoles
Size Range: 5 - 12
Review Spotlight: "Very nice for casual to semi-dressy spring and summer looks!" - Sonja N.
Jewel by Badgley Mischka Ohara Minimalist Crystal Adorned Flats in Champagne
Photo: Macy's
Size Range: 6 - 9.5
Review Spotlight: "I love these. Purchased them to wear to my son's wedding. Read the reviews, I am a 9 1/2 and sometimes wear a 10, the 9 1/2's were perfect. Danced all night! They were very comfy and gorgeous! I would like to get them in another color!" - Kathy
Guilhermina Slingback Flats in Oxford
Photo: Anthropologie
Size Range: 5.5 - 11
The secure heel strap on these flats ensures that they'll stay in place all day long (even through hours of dancing). Anthropologie reviewers recommend sizing up in them, since they run more on the narrow side.
Reformation Millie Lattice Flat Sandals in White
Photo: Anthropologie
Size Range: 5 - 11
Review Spotlight: "Love these shoes! They're very versatile and go well with everything from skirts and jeans to dresses. They were a bit stiff at first but after wearing them for a whole day they loosened up and are so comfortable now. I've gotten so many compliments and they can really dress up a simple outfit." - DeeBB
Aerosoles Patchin Loafer in Eggnog Pebbled Leather
Photo: Aerosoles
Size Range: 5 - 12
Review Spotlight: "I don't usually wear this style shoe but I LOVE these! Not too square or round. I also love the little gold accent." - Mandi H.
Jessica Simpson Rajiv Sandal
Photo: DSW
Size Range: 5 - 12
Review Spotlight: "Fits great! They're the perfect dress shoes for the days you don't want to put on heels." - Jassy
Lulus Westan Silver Metallic Rhinestone T-Strap Sandals
Photo: Lulus
Size Range: 5.5 - 10
This sparkly flat sandal is a great choice for a summer wedding—especially one in grass or sand. Based on reviews, we recommend sizing up by a half size to ensure the most comfortable fit.
How to Choose The Right Shoes for a Wedding Guest
Obviously, there's no set-in-stone answer here, as each event has its own unique dress code and aesthetic. However, there are a few places you can find clues about what shoes to wear to a wedding. Check the invite for any attire notes, then explore the couple's wedding website; many couples today are choosing to share attire ideas through mood boards and photos. When in doubt, use these expert tips to help guide your search:
Heels vs. Flats
Now that you've scrolled through our favorite shoppable looks, you've seen firsthand just how many stylish heels and flats are out there. Now comes the hard part: Deciding on just one pair. The good news is that no matter the dress code, there are no rules when it comes to your heel height. It's all about your personal preference here. So, if strutting around in a set of stilettos sounds like something you're up for, we say go for it! On the other hand, if you're worried about sore feet stopping you from being able to show off your moves on the dance floor, a pair of flats or sandals may be the safer bet. No matter what you choose, it's never a bad idea to spend some time breaking in your wedding guest shoes prior to the event.
Season & Venue
In addition to the dress code, you should also consider location, season and venue when deciding on a pair of wedding guest shoes. Will you be indoors or outdoors? Walking through grass or sand? Spring and summer weddings call for open-toe sandals, floral styles and bold colors, while fall and winter weddings are great places to step into black, booties and closed-toe shoes.
Color
Most people know that you should never wear a white dress to a wedding, but whether or not the same rule applies to shoes is a little more ambiguous. According to The Knot's Fashion and Beauty Editor, Lauren Whalley, white shoes are typically a-okay, unless of course you're attending a wedding with a stricter dress code, such as white-tie or black-tie. As for other colors, well, it totally depends on what you'll be wearing! A pair of neon sandals can add the perfect pop-of-color when paired with a black linen dress for a beach wedding. On the other hand, a pair of classic black pumps might be all you need to top off a glitzy floor-length gown for a formal wedding.
