20 Flat Wedding Shoes for Brides to Feel Comfortable on Their Big Day
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Comfort may reign supreme in your everyday footwear choices, but it’s arguably even more important when it comes to the wedding shoes you wear on your big day. Unless you choose to endure the pain that often comes with wearing high heels, you shouldn’t have to wince down the aisle or miss out on hours of prime dance floor time because of sore feet and achy arches. Not to mention, if you have a backyard or beach wedding, stilettos are even more difficult to walk in on grass or sand. With the right pair of wedding flats, however, you can avoid these situations without sacrificing personal style.
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“Some of today’s brides may be in flat wedding shoes, but they still want them to be just as chic as if they were wearing high heels,” says Gabrielle Hurwitz, founder of Gabrielle Hurwitz Bridal Styling. “That might mean an interesting silhouette, luxe embellishments or even a pop of color.”
And a growing number of brands are certainly rising to the challenge. Alongside established bridal shoe companies, a growing number of designers — both icons like Manolo Blahnik and emerging favorites such as Instagram-famous label Mach and Mach — now carry ultra-elegant ballet flats, dressy flat sandals and even some embellished sneakers suitable for the wedding processional. And for anyone seeking under-$200 wedding flats, a variety of mid-tier favorites like Birdies are getting in on the action, too.
What to consider when looking for stylish and comfortable flat wedding shoes
Style: “Long wedding gowns with trains typically cover most of the shoe, so focus on the toe box first and foremost,” says Carrie Goldberg, founder and creative director of luxury styling firm CLG Creative. Look for pairs featuring front embellishments like all-over glitter, lace, crystals and classic pearls. Bolder brides may also opt for pairs with fringe or feather details, the latter being an especially big bridal footwear trend as a growing number of weddings are expected to take place this year. If you’re opting for a shorter wedding dress or cropped jumpsuit, feel free to show off a cool ankle wrap or chunky embellished sandal. And “for a more elongated look [especially for petite brides], look for pointed toe silhouettes that will give the illusion of being taller,” Hurwitz adds.
Comfort: Generally speaking, it’s important to choose flat wedding shoes with a cushioned underfoot to ward off foot fatigue. If you’re someone that has common foot conditions like flat feet or high arches, however, California-based podiatrist Dr. Najwa Javed encourages you to “always buy a shoe with a stable sole to help support the arch of the foot.” If you have wide feet, opt for shoes that come in a wide size option or that “have a soft upper that will help reduce pinching for wide feet,” she notes. And as for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, look for styles with a flexible midsole and padding in the forefoot — as well as options that can accommodate an insole — for extra support.
Fit: “In terms of fit, you don’t want your wedding flats to be too small that they pinch your toes by the end of the night, but you also don’t want them to be so big that you’re slipping out of them and getting blisters,” Hurwitz says. Also, keep in mind your feet will likely swell after standing all day (and as you drink champagne), so it’s a good idea to shop for wedding flats when your feet are at their largest, like after a long day in your work shoes. Shoes with pointed toe boxes will fit more narrow than square or rounded toe styles, meaning if you have bunions, you’ll likely want to avoid pointed toe styles altogether, unless you can find them with flexible uppers or in wide width sizes. And once you decide on a pair of flat wedding shoes, Hurwitz recommends breaking in your wedding flats a few months before you wear them on the big day to ensure they’re the comfiest they can be. With leather flats, consider using a leather shoe stretch spray if needed.
Wedding Venue/Theme: “I think it’s important to think about the formality of the event and the setting of the wedding itself,” Hurwitz advises. “For a more casual beach or outdoor wedding, a strappy pair of wedding flats is a great choice. If you want a little extra wow factor, look for a pair with embellishments, like pearls or beading along the straps. But for a more formal indoor or ballroom wedding, I recommend a closed-toe wedding flat in satin or lace to fit the dress code.”
Wedding Apparel Material: “Remember that crystal details on wedding shoes can snag delicate silks and tulles,” Goldberg says, so you may want to avoid embellished styles if your dress, jumpsuit or skirt falls into this category.
The most popular colors for wedding flats for brides
White & Ivory Wedding Flats: Traditional brides will gravitate towards these classic finishes. White is the most recognizable complement to a classic blanc gown, but off-white still keeps things neutral while offering a slight twist. Just make sure your shoe isn’t drastically whiter or warmer than the tone of your gown, Goldberg says.
Silver and Gold Wedding Flats: These are great for adding a pop of shine underneath your dress and are easy to style for other formal occasions past your wedding day.
Blue Wedding Flats: Whether in a deep jewel tone or delicate robin’s egg shade, these flat wedding shoes offer a fun way to incorporate “something blue” into your look. Like metallics, these are easier to style in various tones with your wedding apparel, according to Goldberg.
Tan and Nude Wedding Flats: These are slightly more untraditional, yet still just as versatile as white options.
To help make this one decision easier, we rounded up 20 stunning pairs fo flat bridal shoes that are perfect to wear on your wedding day. Take a look below.
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Top Bridal Flats
Best Classic Wedding Ballet Flats: Sarah Flint Natalie Flats
Best Embellished Wedding Sandals: Jewel Badgley Mischka Ornamented Sandals
Best Dressy Slingbacks: Blue by Betsey Johnson Molly Flats
Best Pink Bridal Style: Stuart Weitzman Embellished Buckle Slide Sandals
Best Budget Style: Nina Solita Sandals
Best Gold Bridal Sandals: Jimmy Choo Narisa Sandals
Best Casual Slingbacks: Kate Spade Veronica Flats
Best Custom: Margaux Custom Bridal Flats
Best Ankle Wrap Style: Brothers Vellies Tyla Sandals in Dove
Best Bridal Sneakers: David’s Bridal Lace Crochet Sneakers
Best Statement Bridal Style: Mach and Mach Double Bow Ballerina Shoes
Best Fringe Bridal Flats: Lulus Maelie White Satin Fringe Slide Sandals
Also Consider Best Budget Style: Dream Pairs Ankle Strap Sandals
Best Bridal Flip-Flops: Bernardo Miami Pearl Sandals
Most Comfortable Bridal Flats: Birdies The Swan
Sarah Flint Natalie Flats
Best Classic Wedding Ballet Flats
Colors/Finishes: Whit Lace, Black Vachetta Leather, Saddle Vachetta Leather, Navy Suede, Chocolate Leopard Haircalf, Gunmetal Lamé, Light Pink Snake Embossed Nappa, Mademoiselle Cerise Fabric, Black Filigree Suede, Lavender Suede
Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
You can’t go wrong with a timeless white flat like Sarah Flint’s Natalie. Courtesy of the Italian-made brand worn by everyone from Amal Clooney to Meghan Markle, the style offers a low vamp and asymmetrical bow detail for a slightly modern twist — plus, three millimeters of padding to cushion your steps. The style is available in smooth leather and suede finishes, but if you want to add more texture to your look, go for a gunmetal lamé or lacy version. “Sarah Flint’s signature ballet flat gets the bridal update in a beautiful lace without sacrificing any of the features that make it great, like a rubber bottom to minimize slipping and extra padding for increased comfort,” Hurwitz says.
Courtesy of Sarah Flint
Sarah Flint Natalie
Jewel Badgley Mischka Ornamented Sandals
Best Embellished Flat Wedding Sandals
Colors: Silver, Champagne, Navy
Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Designer Badgley Mischka’s more affordable line, Jewel, makes some of the best bridal flats and heels on the market that won’t cost you a fortune. Topping out at $102, this style offers an elevated take on the classic flat ankle strap sandal done in a metallic synthetic finish with crystal embellishments at the toe. Complete with a lightly padded footbed and adjustable buckle detail, these wedding flats are beloved by customers for their lasting comfort. As one shopper says: “This was just what I needed. I used these as my flat options for my wedding reception. I was able to dance all night long without my feet hurting!” Pick your pair in silver, navy or champagne to match your shoes to the theme of the after-party (aka flowing bubbly).
Courtesy of Amazon
Jewel Badgley Mischka Ornamented Sandals
Blue by Betsey Johnson Molly Flats
Best Dressy Slingback Bridal Flats
Colors: Navy, Black, Gold, Red, Silver, Ivory
Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
From the designer who specializes in bold, whimsical fashion, these Betsey Johnson flats are striking yet elegant. The shoe’s satin upper is decked out in pearl and crystal accents that will offer some major bling when peeking out from underneath your dress or jumpsuit. Plus, the padded footbed adds plushness and an elasticized slingback strap helps comfortably keep feet locked in place. The ornate style is available in classic colors like ivory, but also comes in bolder options like this rich navy blue if you’re looking to switch things up.
Courtesy of Zappos
Blue by Betsey Johnson Molly
Stuart Weitzman Embellished Buckle Slide Sandals
Best Pink Bridal Flats
Colors: India Pink
Sizes: 5-11.5, including half sizes
For a fun pop of color beneath your white or ivory-colored wedding gown or the perfect complement to a blush-colored number, these bubblegum pink slides from classic brand Stuart Weitzman are not to be missed. A glittering buckle detail set atop a suede upper gives these a high-glam feel, while a roomy square toe and smooth leather lining help keep feet comfortable. Bonus: These are also perfect for dressing up casual outfits on the weekends and while on vacation.
Courtesy of Bloomingdale's
Stuart Weitzman Embellished Buckle Slide Sandals
Nina Solita Sandals
Best Budget Flat Bridal Sandals
Colors: Alamo Tan
Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Dress shoe brand Nina has been crafting comfortable, chic and wallet-friendly bridal shoes for decades and continues to churn out a range of traditional to contemporary silhouettes for every type of bride. This sleek suede sandal offers just enough bling for those who want a dose of sparkle but nothing too glitzy. And not only are the front straps eye-catching, but they also help keep feet secure, as this style is backless. Additionally, a super low heel makes these easy to wear during every part of your big day. “Fun and comfortable shoe,” writes one reviewer. “I can dress it up or down; great buy.”
Courtesy of Nina
Nina Solita Sandals
Jimmy Choo Narisa Sandals
Best Gold Flat Bridal Sandals
Made in Italy
Colors: Gold
Sizes: 5-13, including half sizes
The maker of those iconic strappy sandals also offers some pretty flats and slides for anyone looking to save their arches. Jimmy Choo’s opulent Narisa sandals are made with metallic lamb leather and chunky knotted straps that will add an arty touch to your look. A square toe and slender contrast heel give them wearability and sturdiness, too. According to Mytheresa.com, these wedding flats tend to run a bit small, so consider ordering a half size up.
Jimmy Choo Narisa Sandals
Kate Spade Veronica Flats
Best Casual Slingback Bridal Flats
Includes a breathable, tennis shoe-inspired upper
Colors: Parchment, Black, Sunglow and Fresh Greens
Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
A go-to for casual outdoor spring or summer weddings, Kate Spade’s Veronica flats feature a breathable perforated upper — inspired by tennis shoes! — to keep even sweat-prone feet cool and comfortable. Staying true to the brand’s aesthetic, these are still more polished than sporty however, dressed in supple Nappa leather with a sleek pointed toe and dainty front bow detail. They also have an elasticized ankle strap to help you get the perfect fit and a sheep leather lining designed to feel oh-so smooth and slightly cushy for hours spent on your feet. We recommend grabbing these wedding flats in Parchment white for the big day.
Kate Spade Veronica Flats
Margaux Custom Bridal Flats
Best Custom
Handmade
Colors/Finishes: Ivory Satin, Ivory Nappa Leather, Ivory Suede, Blush Satin, Blush Nappa Leather, Blush Suede, Ivory Lace, Powder Satin, Powder Suede, Metallic Leather
Sizes: 3-14, including half sizes and narrow, medium and wide width options
Known for its super wearable flats and loafers, cult-favorite luxury shoe brand Margaux offers custom-made, comfortable bridal flats that are sure to wow. The label allows you to customize two of its best-selling ballet flats (a pointed toe and rounded toe style) in a variety of aisle-ready finishes, including metallic leather, satins in soft pastels and ivory-colored lace. You can also choose between three insole colors and personalize your look with the date of your wedding or initials. Each pair is handmade in Spain with fine materials sourced from Italy and comes in inclusive sizing, from three to 14. Plus, these dainty flats are even available in narrow to wide width options to suit your specific foot shape. Keep in mind these will ship to you within 12 weeks, so make sure not to wait until the last minute to order them.
“I bought these flats to wear as my ‘something blue’ in my wedding, and they are gorgeous,” writes one reviewer. “The blue color is beautiful, and the flats fit true-to-size. They are very comfortable, and I have no concerns about wearing them for my entire wedding day. I added our wedding date on the bottom, and it is the perfect touch.”
Courtesy of Margeaux
Margaux Custom Bridal Flats
Lulus Maelie White Satin Fringe Slide Sandals
Best Fringe Bridal Flats
Colors: White, Light Nude, Pink
Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Even if you’re not the boho type of bride, these Lulus fringe sandals are still sophisticated for many types of ceremonies. They’re done in all-over sleek satin with an almond toe and two tiers of wispy fringe on the upper. And priced at just $24, they’re also a perfect option if you’re looking for some cute, wallet-friendly bridal slides that you can sport from getting ready to walking down the aisle and busting a move on the dance floor.
Courtesy of Lulus
Maelie White Satin Fringe Slide Sandals
Brothers Vellies Tyla Sandals in Dove
Best Ankle Wrap Bridal Flats
Made using traditional African design techniques
Colors: White
Sizes: 5-12
“Perfect for a beach wedding, these strappy Brother Vellies sandals are effortlessly cool,” Hurwitz says. “And the best part? You can absolutely wear them again after your big day.” Like the rest of the brand’s offerings, these wedding flats are handmade by artisans around the globe using traditional African design techniques, meaning you’ll get a pair that’s totally unique and supports equitable work practices, too. The luxe, minimalist style offers boho vibes with its strappy ankle ties and gets a modern touch via croc-embossed leather details on the sole. Wear them to say “I do” and with breezy dresses and jeans all summer long.
Courtesy of Brothers Vellies
Brothers Vellies Tyla Sandal in Dove
David’s Bridal Lace Crochet Sneakers
Best Bridal Sneakers
Colors: White
Sizes: 5-11
Instead of opting for ballet flats or strappy sandals, more casual brides may go the wedding sneaker route. This pretty lace pair from the experts at David’s Bridal are made for the every part of your big day — and beyond. It has a synthetic crochet upper that’s ideal for warm weather and classic front laces with contrast metal eyelets. Customers say these are spacious and even run slightly wide to allow extra room for feet that may swell throughout the day.
“These were a life saver for my after-party and rehearsal dinner,” writes one reviewer. “I would recommend investing in these, they were super comfortable and easy to put on. They didn’t last beyond the wedding as they were super dirty after we were walking around all night, but worth the $30 for the comfort.”
Courtesy of David's Bridal
David’s Bridal Lace Crochet Sneakers
Roger Vivier Viv Cotton Crystal-Buckle Slide Sandals
Colors: White
Sizes: 5-11
It’s easy to incorporate the every-poplar ugly sandal trend into your wedding day wardrobe with a glitzy take on the silhouette. This version from storied French luxury shoe brand Roger Vivier certainly hits the mark with its smooth calf leather upper and signature buckle details done with crystal accents. It’s also complete with a recessed footbed and toothed outsole for even comfort and stability, especially when walking on any slick surfaces.
Courtesy of Neiman Marcus
Riger Vivier Viv Cotton Crystal-Buckle Slide Sandals
Mach and Mach Double Bow Ballerina Shoes
Best Statement Bridal Flats
Colors: Clear
Sizes: 35-37, including half sizes
New It-girl-favorite footwear brand Mach and Mach has been slaying the party heels game lately, and these statement ballerina flats from the label are just as lustworthy. The made-in-Italy style is dressed in PVC with a signature crystal Double Bow detail, a single large gemstone at the toe and matching crystal accents throughout to effortlessly complement that stunner on your finger. While these beautiful wedding flats are definitely some of the most expensive shoes on our list, we guarantee you’ll be super proud to own them and wear out for other special occasions. (They’re so pretty in fact, they can even be a glamorous accent to your home decor when you’re not sporting them.)
Courtesy of Farfetch
Mach and Mach Double Bow Ballerina Shoes
Manolo Blahnik Hagasi Flat
Colors: Blue, Black
Sizes: 4-12, including half sizes
“For the bride who wants her classic Carrie Bradshaw moment but doesn’t want to be teetering on stilettos all night, these are a fabulous flat wedding shoe option, Hurwitz says, adding that “the range of colors allows you to tie in your wedding design if you’re feeling a little adventurous.” A flat take on the Sex and the City character’s iconic wedding shoes, the made-in-Italy silhouette includes a recognizable blue satin upper, jewel detail and pointed toe. For additional wearability, these have a smooth leather lining and padded insole.
Farfetch
Manolo Blahnik Hagasi Flat
Dream Pairs Ankle Strap Sandals
Also Consider Best Budget Bridal Sandals
Colors/Finishes: White, White/Pu, Black, Black/Pu, Gold, Gold/Pu, Nude Nude/Pu, Red, Silver, Royal Blue
Sizes: 5-11
Another great affordable sandal option comes courtesy of popular Amazon-owned label Dream Pairs. Backed by over 3,500 four and five star reviews, the strappy silhouette is available in both smooth Pu leather and rhinestone-embellished versions in various neutral, metallic and jewel tones to suit any bridal style. Four thin straps at the ankle help keep feet locked in while a zipper at the heel allows for easy on and off. And, they’re finished with a super slight wedge heel and cushioned latex insole for extra supported steps.
“They’re so comfortable, the straps are not stretchy but they fit just right and they’re absolutely gorgeous,” writes one shopper. “I’m in love. I bought these for my wedding day and I’m so excited to wear them. These fit true to size for me. No missing stones, very sturdy and have some grip to them.”
Courtesy of Amazon
Dream Pairs Ankle Strap Sandals
Bernardo Miami Pearl Sandals
Best Bridal Flip-Flops
Colors: Off-White, Black
Sizes: 6-11, including half sizes
While there are a growing number of supportive flip-flops on the market these days, finding a stylish, dressy flip-flop that won’t kill your arches can feel like an almost impossible feat. But thankfully, Bernardo makes the perfect wedding flats for your beach wedding, tropical getaways and even everyday outings when you feel like getting a little fancy. The silhouette features a faux-leather, pearl-embellished upper and full-length padded footbed. We love that the look offers dimension, too, with its double front straps and row of pearls in different sizes.
“Gorgeous sandals,” wrote one reviewer. “I have lots of issues like high arches and plantar fasciitis — wore them all day and they seemed good!!”
Courtesy of DSW
Bernardo Miami Pearl Sandals
Birdies The Swan
Most Comfortable Bridal Flats
Colors/Styles: Jeweled Gunmetal Sparkle, Jeweled Gold Sparkle, Jeweled Ocean and Jeweled Raspberry, as well as four classic finishes and Crystal Bracelet styles in five colors
Sizes: 5-12
Ultimate comfort meets opulence in Birdies’ The Swan. These editor-approved women’s slippers from the celebrity-loved shoe brand give us major Great Gatsby vibes with their all-over glitter finish and contrasting crystal accents formed into the prettiest brooch-like design. (For something a little less blingy, you can also try the Swan featuring a velvet upper and bracelet-like strap across the vamp.) Underfoot, you get the brand’s silky, quilted footbed and seven layers of cushioning that make it feels as if you’re walking on clouds.
Courtesy of Birdies
Birdies The Swan
Bella Belle Lulu Pearls Wedding Flats
Handmade
Includes extra padding for comfort
Colors: White
Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Having a hard time deciding on exactly what style of bridal flats to choose? This stunning white option from wedding shoe brand Bella Belle offers a few eye-catching designs in one look. The pointed-toe, low vamp style features a decorative T-strap hand-strung with pearls and crystal rings and silky satin ankle ties for a lovely mixed media effect. The ties are also ideal, as they offer extra security without the rubbing or chafing that can come with stiff leather alternatives. And like all the brand’s pairs, these feature extra layers of padding underfoot, too.
“These are the most beautiful and comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn,” writes one customer. “They held up amazingly, never rubbed or gave me blisters (even with 12+ hours of wear) and looked so good in pictures. Cannot recommend these enough!”
Courtesy of Bella Belle
Bella Belle Lulu Pearls Wedding Flats
Titi Adesa Dídì Slide
Handcrafted in Italy
Colors/Finishes: Rose-Gold Leather, Ivory Kid Leather, Fuchsia Suede, Chartreuse Satin
Sizes: European 36-43
Brides who crave understated glamour and appreciate supporting small businesses should turn to Titi Adesa for beautiful investment pieces. Founded in 2019, the luxury footwear label and 2021 winner of FN’s Emerging Talent Award carries a series of hand-crafted, classic silhouettes with subtle edge — offering the perfect balance of versatility and flair. One standout from the label is its Dídì Slide, a sleek pointed toe mule featuring a partial PVC upper and dainty braided details. For both comfort and style, it also has an under one-inch heel and signature lavender-colored genuine leather insole. Although it comes in eye-catching fuchsia suede and ribbed chartreuse satin, we think the ivory leather and glittering rose gold versions are perfect for weddings. The site suggests these styles run up to a full size big, so make sure to order down.
To top it all off, the brand provides young, aspiring female designers in under-served African communities with resources like educational sponsorship and mentorship — making any purchase from the brand a truly feel-good buy.
Courtesy of Titi Adesa
Titi Adesa Dídì Slide
Jeffrey Campbell Niko Sandals
Best to Wear Pre and Post-Ceremony
Colors: Pink
Sizes: 6-10
If you decided take the plunge on those lofty heels for the ceremony, you’ll probably want to wear something else while getting ready and during the after-party. Instead of going barefoot or opting for some run-of-the-mill slip-ons, try these cute sandals from Jeffrey Campbell. Perfect for the woman with bold style, the pair falls right in line with current bridal footwear trends, featuring a plume of billowing feathers on the upper. These also have a sleek yet wearable square toe and durable EVA sole. Show them off in all their glory with a short reception dress and pack them in your suitcase to pair with breezy coverups and robes for your honeymoon.
Courtesy of BHLDN
Jeffrey Campbell Niko Sandals
Meet the Author
Sam Peters is the senior style commerce editor at Fairchild Media Group (FMG). She previously oversaw Footwear News’ shopping vertical for three years, where she became an expert on the latest footwear trends and innovations by testing and reviewing shoes in a wide range of categories — from athletic to streetwear styles. Prior to her role at FMG, she has written about wedding trends, including bridal fashion, for Bridal Guide.
Meet the Experts
Gabrielle Hurwitz is the founder of Gabrielle Hurwitz Bridal Styling, where she dresses clients in some of the best wedding flats. She was previously the head of editorial strategy and social media at wedding resource site Style Me Pretty for over three years.
Carrie Goldberg is the founder and creative director CLG Creative, a creative consulting agency and luxury styling firm with a focus on everyday and bridal fashion. She was formerly the weddings and travel director at HarpersBAZAAR.com, where she oversaw the site’s Bride channel and travel and dining content and styled fashion and bridal editorials for BAZAAR.com.
Dr. Najwa Javed is a Silicon-Valley based podiatrist and founder of E’mar Italy, a luxury heels brand focused on creating wearable elevated styles. Her shoes all feature a patent-pending inlay that uses biomechanically-designed arch inclines to redistribute pressure, and many are designed to be comfortable wedding or everyday heels.
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