The Best Wedding Guest Shoes Based on Your Top Searches
During this wedding boom, you'll probably be attending a dozen or more weddings in the next year or two and that can 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 wedding attire (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 dressy flats, shoes for an outdoor wedding, black shoes, shoes for the beach, or, most commonly, comfortable shoes for wedding guests. We rounded up our top picks for the best shoes for wedding guests based on some popular search-engine inquiries, and have more than 50 shoppable links for you to check out. So, why wait for the other shoe to drop? Dive right in.
What Shoes to Wear at a Wedding
Obviously, there's no set-in-stone answer here, as each wedding has its own dress code and aesthetic. But, there are a few places you can find clues about what to wear. 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. As for footwear, consider location and season in addition to the dress code. 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.
Above all, you should consider comfort. High heels are always stylish, and we've included a few low-heel shoes and dressy flat options that would stun with a wedding guest dress. Plus, we've got men's shoes for both formal and casual affairs.
Most Comfortable Heels for Wedding Guests
"Comfortable shoes for wedding guest" is a top search-engine entry, and it's easy to see why: Weddings require many hours in fancy shoes, and much of that time is spent on the dance floor. So if you want to kick up your heels in style and comfort, look for options with padded insoles, comfort technology or platform heels.
Margaux The City Sandal
Lauded for its comfort level, Margaux is a splurge-worthy label for shoes you'll wear again and again. Its famous City Sandals feature strategically placed straps, cushioned insoles and a walkable 2.5-inch heel. Psst, low heel shoes will almost always offer the highest comfort.
Cole Haan Kaycee Knotted Sandal
Infused with the label's proprietary "3D Lux Comfort Technology" these heels are as easy to walk and dance in as they are pretty in pink. The wide heel makes them wearable on grass as well, which is perfect since the style screams summer wedding.
ALDO Prisilla Heeled Sandal
Sure these may look wildly uncomfortable, but looks can be deceiving. ALDO recently developed a Pillow Walk technology that uses dual-density foam to absorb the impact of each step; additional memory foam lining shortens the "breaking in" period, so you can wear the shoes straight out of the box. Plus, the platform at the toe adds even more stability.
Naturalizer Joy Dress Sandal
Rated by customers as a 4.6 out of 5 on the comfort scale, these shoes are specifically designed to match the natural contours of a woman's foot. But most importantly, they're high in style: We love the watercolor-inspired floral and clear heel for a spring wedding at a botanical garden.
Aerosoles Callan Pump in Silver
Who knew labels created with comfort in mind made such fashion-forward shoes? There's no better example than this disco-ready design, complete with closed-toe, dual platforms and a flexible outsole. You're sure to get Saturday Night Fever.
Birdies The Songbird
Slide right into these oh-so-comfortable wedding guest shoes with no heel; an über-chic blush pompom is all the glam you need. We love these with patterned silk pants for a high-fashion take on loungewear; it's the perfect rehearsal dinner or welcome party look.
Low Heel Shoes for Wedding Guests
When it comes to comfort, low heel shoes for wedding guests will always be top of the list—but luckily, the look is also super on-trend. From kitten heels (1.5 to 2 inches) to more typical low heels up to 3 inches, these are a great starting point when you want to be dressy but not tower over the crowd.
Dolce Vita River Pearl Heels
Pearls are everywhere in bridal right now, and that even extends to the guest list. This chic shoe features pearl-embellished straps and a surprising croc-embossed square heel. Bonus: The style is made with recycled materials to quite literally create a smaller eco footprint.
Kate Spade Soiree Slingback Pumps
Nothing says celebration like a Champagne cork pop! Kate Spade adds a flute-full of whimsy to the retro patent leather slingback with a Champagne cork heel. These are more than just comfortable low heels for dancing—they're a conversation piece.
Reformation Gigi Strappy Mid Heel Sandal
This simple sandal offers the silhouette of stilettos without the heel height. Available in two nude shades, black and gold, there's an option to match any wedding look; and the asymmetrical thong strap adds interest. Pro tip: This silhouette is naturally narrow, so go up a 1/2 size for wider feet.
Raye Foxx Boot
Need a low heel for a winter wedding? Look no further. This off-white pointed-toe bootie has a chic chain detail across the foot; zipper and elastic panel for easy removal; and a delicate 3-inch heel.
Lulus Swayy Light Nude Suede Rhinestone Ankle Strap Heels
A tiny step up—literally—from a flat, this faux suede low heel shoe has a pointed-toe silhouette and adjustable ankle strap, both adorned with sparkly rhinestones. Pair these with chandelier earrings to play up the jewels.
High Heel Shoes for Wedding Guests
Whether it's an open-toe sandal style, velvet platforms, classic pumps or knee-high boots, the most common shoes to wear as a wedding guest are high heels. TLDR; the high heel options are endless.
LoveShackFancy x Sophia Webster Lilico Sandal
We're obsessed with this entire collab, which features satin floral print platforms, butterfly-inspired stilettos and other whimsical creations. Our top wedding guest shoe pick, though, is this fantastical floral design, which would stand out beautifully against an LBD or amplify the pastel hues in a springy frock.
Steve Madden Clearer Clear
Need a goes-with-everything option for a slew of summer weddings? It doesn't get more versatile than this minimalistic, leg-lengthening design with a clear plastic upper and lucite heel.
Schutz Peaky Sandal
This light nude 4-inch stiletto will naturally add height, but the knotted crystal detail across the toe is an unexpected touch. This high heel wedding guest shoe works equally well with a busy patterned ensemble or simple black dress.
Mix No. 6 Danyah Pump in Iridescent
Add nostalgic shimmer to your wedding day look with an iridescent pump, lifted on a see-through heel. The pointed toe and silhouette are classics, while the materials are super of-the-moment.
Schutz Maryana Crocodile-Embossed Leather Boot in Sea
In a recent collaboration with fitness brand Bala, Schutz applied new colors to its popular Maryana croc-embossed boot, and we love the new hues for wedding guest shoes. Shop cerulean sea blue or soft sage green to add a pop of color to your look.
Dressy Flats for Wedding Guests
When comfort is paramount, swap out the high heels for a pair of flats—but keep the dress code in mind. These dressy flats for wedding guests will have you on the dance floor all night long.
Custommade Annabella Flats
Available in black with a pearl-adorned bow, or the ever-on-theme silver with an embellished heart at the toe, these pointed-toe leather flats are easy to slip on and off, and elevate any dress for a wedding guest.
Steve Madden Elina Embellished Rhinestone Bow Ballet Flats
More embellishment, you say? Try these rhinestones-all-over ballet flats by Steve Madden, which draw the eye downward to the sparkle on your feet. We recommend a solid dress in a light hue and silver jewelry to let the shoes shine the most.
Jimmy Choo Genevi Flat
A classic flat can be worn with dresses, dress pants, jeans and so much more—so we say, it's always worth a splurge. Go bold with Jimmy Choo's fuchsia satin flats as a wedding guest shoe; the criss-cross crystal straps add a little bling for the big day.
Caroline Constas Harper Flat
A retro style brought into the modern day, these pointy-toe slingbacks have a playful black-and-white polka dot pattern and oversized bow at the toe. Pair them with a solid black dress and bold jewelry, or a minimalistic style in a bold jewel tone.
Journee Collection Renzo Flat
Another pop of color and available in medium or wide widths, this ballet flat has a slightly pointed toe with a gemstone cluster accent. It's rendered in vegan leather so you can look—and feel—good in your style choice. Psst, these are perfect with skinny jeans after the "I do's."
Best Black Shoes for Wedding Guests
Whether it's winter weather that has you going back to black or a formal summer soiree, black shoes for a wedding guest are always a safe bet. Here are a handful of options that rise above the basic.
Sam Edelman Elina Crystal Bow Ballet Flat
You're correct if this shoe seems familiar; we included its embellished-all-over sister in the dressy flats section above. But the shape and silhouette—a pointed-toe ballet flat—are so classic that the black version also makes our list of best black shoes for wedding guests. A crystal-studded bow adds a little shine to this Audrey Hepburn-esque style.
Stuart Weitzman Gemcut XCurve 100 Slingback Pump
Trending now: heels with an architectural curve. Stuart Weitzman nails the look with a teardrop crystal-studded slingback (the crystals are Swarovski and applied by hand, by the way). The low-cut vamp on the shoe's upper would make a lovely mirror to a plunging or V-neck dress.
ALDO Koilla Pump in Black
The classic black pump gets an über-chic update with a rectangular block heel and gold accents at the tip toe and sole. The materials and design were crafted with comfort in mind, making this shoe flexible and foamy for all-day wear.
Lulus Clairee Black Satin Lace-Up Heels
A summery shoe in all black, these heels have a wide band across the toes and sleek straps that tie up the ankle. Wrap them all at the base of your ankle or wind them up the leg for a gladiator-inspired look. Either way, they're sure to be attention grabbers.
Schutz Asya Mirror Leather Bootie
The best black shoes for winter weddings? A bootie is our top choice. This black leather bootie is ultra-unique, thanks to a geometric see-through wedge heel that makes it look like you're walking on air.
Best Gold and Silver Shoes for Wedding Guests
There's something about wearing metallics—be it gold, rose gold, silver or champagne—that makes any fit you go with feel more festive. These sparkly styles are ideal wedding guest shoes that put the "twinkle" in twinkle toes.
Bernardo Belinda Shoe in Champagne Antique Calf
Easy, chic, sophisticated and comfortable—these mid-heel sandals and you are a match made in shoe heaven. We love the champagne-hued leather for a chic finish. Bonus: They're also available in rose gold platinum.
Jessica Simpson Fonilda Sandal in Gold Metallic
A sexy curved heel is just one talking point on these unique metallic platforms, which are rendered in the shiniest gold croc-embossed textile. They're great shoes to wear as a wedding guest, of course, and will carry you straight to the disco afterward.
Loeffler Randall Dahlia Heeled Sandals
The handcrafted pleats are the standout of this shimmering gold shoe, which features an adorable raffia-inspired bow at the peep toe. You can wear this style for weddings all year long: Its silhouette says summer, but the gold detailing is a festive punch for winter weddings.
INC International Concepts Silvee Bow Pumps in Gold Bling
These shoes go both ways: They can be the statement piece of your entire outfit—the rhinestone embellishments and structured side bows sing—or blend in as a neutral under a gorgeous long gown.
Jewel Badgley Mischka Bambi Evening Flat in Silver
A perfect flat in rose gold or silver, the Bambi style features a bejeweled strap across the top that amplifies the metallic leather's shine. We love that these can do double duty as a dressy evening shoe and elevated accompaniment to jeans for the morning-after brunch.
Wedding Guest Sandals
When it comes to destination weddings, you're probably wondering what shoes to wear. Tropical beach weddings require flats to traverse the sand, and warm-weather climates beg for an open toe. Here are a few starting points from designers we love.
Steve Madden Duri Ivory Sandal
Yet another pick with pearls, these flat slides feature heavily embellished criss-cross straps that make a statement in the sand; we picture them with a flowing ivory or floral frock. A modern square toe completes the look.
Raye Esther Sandal
The woven textile of these strappy sandals mimics cork or raffia for a super summery look, and the unique pyramid-like heel evokes images of Egyptian sand. And that's perfect, because they're slim and sleek enough to pack for a destination wedding without taking up too much precious suitcase space.
Abercrombie & Fitch Strappy Heel in Light Blue
Who says something blue is just for the bride? These strappy sandals come in the prettiest shade of light blue—made with luxe vegan leather, no less—and feature a mid-height heel with a supportive ankle strap. Perfect for stepping into spring.
Dolce Vita Noles Heels in Electric Pink Stella
An understated silhouette speaks loudly through color in these sandals made from recycled materials. The thick block heel is ideal for varying terrain at an outdoor wedding and, post-ceremony, the electric pink hue will light up the dance floor.
Reformation Millie Lattice Flat Sandal
In anything but shiny gold, these flats might be too casual for a wedding, but the metallic straps and latticework elevate them for fancy affairs. They're equally beach-and-dance-floor-ready, and you're guaranteed to get lots of use out of them post-wedding, as well.
Closed-Toe Wedding Guest Shoes
Too last-minute to get a pedicure? Snow on the ground? There are countless reasons you might opt for closed-toe wedding guest shoes. Whatever your reason, we've got a shoe for you.
Lulus Zakai Rose Gold Satin Rhinestone Platform Ankle Strap Pumps
Made only for the most daring of wedding guests, these rhinestone ankle strap pumps have a sky-high, 6-inch block heel and tall toe platform for maximum lift. The Mary Jane inspiration is demure, but gets a sexy, glittering twist.
Fashare Bow Tie Back Stiletto
Pretty pumps with keyhole cutouts and a sweet bow detail? Yes, please. Forget your toes and give your ankles their moment to shine (psst, the ankle strap is detachable for a cleaner look). We love these with a structured mini dress in any hue; the shoes come in more than a dozen colorways.
Stuart Weitzman Stuart 100 Stretch Bootie
Have a little—or a lot—of fun in these hot pink stretch booties, which promise to amplify any wintry ensemble. The stretchy sock silhouette and pointed toe are super modern; pair them with an equally striking and structural dress.
Mango Asymmetrical Satin Pumps
Asymmetrical sides give these classic pointed-toe pumps a chic update for wedding guest shoes. They come in a half dozen solids, but we suggest embracing your wild side in cheetah print—just be sure to tone down your outfit so it doesn't clash.
ALDO Solanti Sling Back High Heel
If you need a closed-toe option for a summer wedding, here's a clear favorite. The synthetic upper is transparent blue to match the clear blue sculptural heel; you'll be swimming in a sea of compliments as blue as your footwear.
Wide Fit Shoes for Wedding Guests
Many heels can be wildly uncomfortable for those with fuller feet, but fortunately, there are dozens of shoe labels that cater to exactly that. Here are our top five picks.
ASOS Design Wide Fit Scarlett Bow Detail Mid-Heeled Shoes in Magenta Velvet
ASOS duplicates nearly all its shoe designs with wide-fit counterparts, including these perfectly on-trend pink velvet slingbacks. The sculptural stiletto heel is a favorite detail.
Torrid Woven Embellished Heel Sandal
Our pick for a destination wedding guest shoe, the dual woven straps on these 4-inch heels are studded with crystals for a shiny finish. Extra cushioning provides all-day comfort, even in the heat.
Jessica Simpson Irbella Platform Sandal
A platform sandal to go with any style of wedding guest attire, this beige and clear option practically disappears on your foot, while adding lots of invisible height.
Comfortview The Sidney Bootie
Available in medium, wide and double wide widths, this chic metallic bootie will get you over the holiday hump. Wear it to winter weddings then rewear it again and again for office parties, New Year's Eve and other celebrations. And, it pairs perfectly with both dresses and jeans.
Betsey Johnson Mari Sandal
Sparkly embellishments and low block heels are currently on-trend shoe features, and this Betsey Johnson style embraces both. Whether they're set against black, white, navy or metallic champagne—all color options in this style—the rhinestones make the loudest statement.
Men's Casual Shoes for Wedding Guests
Wedding dress codes are loosening up these days, but that doesn't mean you can go in your gym sneakers. These casual options offer the best of both worlds.
Banana Republic Nicklas Leather Sneaker in Cognac Brown Leather
Featuring the sole of a sneaker and the refined, cognac brown leather upper of a dress shoe, these men's wedding guest shoes check all the boxes. And, inside, they're infused with a few comfort-tech features, like a temperature-regulating ability that was originally developed for NASA.
Mercanti Fiorentini Woven Penny Loafer
A unique woven texture sets these penny loafers apart from the crowd. These look great sockless with wheat-colored slacks and a linen button down for beach weddings, or can be dressed up with a dark gray suit.
Nike Blazer Mid '77 Premium
For weddings where the dress code says to let your personal style shine, we love a nostalgic high-top sneaker. No one does it better than Nike, of course. These 1970s-inspired tennies come in two cool color combos: off-white and navy or a deep maroon brown that veers a little dressier.
Nordstrom Peter Flex Penny Boat Shoe
A classic boat shoe is just the ticket for weddings on the water, especially one in a deep blue hue. These suede leather slip ons are soft, chic and comfortable.
Wolf & Shepherd Crossover Loafer
Wolf & Shepherd is a shoe line developed by a pair of former Division 1 Track & Field athletes, looking to put a comfortable, futuristic spin on the classic dress shoe. Their crossover loafer is case in point: Cushioned insoles have memory foam layers lined with soft sheepskin leather—but from the outside, they imitate a dressier shoe.
Men's Dress Shoes for Wedding Guests
From tuxedo slippers to polished leather Oxfords, you'll get endless use out of a classic dress shoe. Here are our top five favorites.
TAFT The Jack Shoe in Eden
There's no end to the ways in which women can make a statement with their wedding guest shoes, but for guys, the options are more limited. TAFT is changing the game with a bold shoe for men, featuring a metallic floral textile across the middle of the foot. If that's too loud, there's a monochromatic black version with contrasting materials—but we say go bold.
Paul Stuart Giordana Monk-Strap Leather Shoes
A classic dress shoe you'll wear again and again is definitely worth the price point. You can't beat Paul Stuart's refined monk-strap design, with a classic pointed toe and supple walnut leather that will age like a fine wine.
FRYE Paul Cap Toe Boot
The practicality of a Chelsea boot and the look of a dress shoe come together in this FRYE style, rendered in rich black leather with a sturdy Goodyear-welted sole. Rock it under dress pants for an outdoor wedding in the woods.
ALDO Bowtie Bit Loafer
Geometric studs are an edgy embellishment to this classic black bit loafer. It's a great shoe for the sockless tuxedo look that's on trend, and ideal for a summertime black-tie affair.
Cole Haan Lenox Hill Cap Toe Oxford
Always a go-to, Cole Haan knows how to take care of feet—and look good doing it. These polished leather Oxfords will pair well with a perfectly tailored custom suit, and can be worn again and again to dress up jeans and a blazer post-nuptials.