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The 15 Best Shoes For Wedding Guests

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by Andrea Gale
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Bustle / Amazon

I once attended a wedding held in a muddy and remote Icelandic canyon. By far, the most challenging element of event preparation was deciding on proper footwear. Whether you’re headed to a wedding that doubles as an outdoor adventure or an elegant ballroom gala, the best shoes for wedding guests take into account the essential elements of the event — namely, dress code, venue, and season — all while seamlessly blending with your wedding guest dress (or other outfit of choice).

Dress code is the most important factor when selecting a shoe for your wedding ‘fit, so start your search there. A formal or black-tie wedding is the time for sky-high stilettos, delicate straps, and luxe details like crystals, glitter, and jewels. Casual weddings — especially those held during the daytime — call for more relaxed shoes. This is the moment for your lower, less formal heels in bright, fun colors. You can even consider an espadrille or strappy gladiator-inspired sandal. Cocktail attire lands somewhere in between, but you can never go wrong with simple yet elevated styles, like a classic, open-toed heeled sandal.

Once you’ve got the dress code nailed, consider the venue and season. Is the wedding held outside or inside? A beach or garden wedding (or a muddy Icelandic canyon), for example, is perhaps not the place to bust out your favorite stilettos that’ll sink into the ground — opt for a chunkier heel or wedge, instead. For fall and winter weddings, you’ll probably prefer a closed toe or closed heel cup to keep your feet warm in the dash to the venue. Better yet, look for a shoe with some degree of traction that can handle wet or cold conditions to prevent slips.

Read on to shop 15 of the best shoes for wedding guests on Amazon Fashion — and don’t forget to round out your accessories with a nuptial-ready handbag or clutch.

1

These Versatile, Casual Sandals With A Comfy Low Heel

Champions of versatility, you’ll wear these heeled sandals by Amazon Essentials for way more than just weddings. With a low, 2.25-inch block heel, a closed heel cup secured by a buckle-fastened ankle strap, and a memory foam lining, these shoes are comfy enough to wear at the office but polished enough to wear for casual weddings. The faux suede is rich enough to be worn for winter weddings, while the color is versatile enough to take you through the warmer months, as well. (But they’re available in a variety of colors and materials, if you don’t love this color/material combination.) Hidden elastic on the backstrap and a traction grip on the outsole offer extra comfort and security.

Enthusiastic review: “These shoes are lovely, so comfortable and so pretty. I ordered a size 7 Wide and I was happy they even had a wide option because you know how that can be ! . The heel isn’t too tall which I like a lot. I’ll be ordering these in other colors. They’re a must girlies! Can’t wait to pair these shoes with cute outfits.”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 10.5 (available in wide sizes)
  • Available colors: 7

2

A Pair Of Splurge-Worthy Sandals That Work For Almost Any Dress Code

You’ll wear these black high-heeled sandals by Stuart Weitzman to so many weddings over the years that the price is easily justified (cost per use, right?). Made of real leather, with a 4-inch heel and a slender, minimal ankle strap featuring a buckle closure and a matching toe strap, these shoes will pair with all your black-tie gowns, cocktail attire, and simple daytime slip dresses. (And they’re available in an equally sophisticated neutral shade if you’re not feeling the black.) If you’re not sure what shoes to wear to that upcoming wedding, the answer is probably these.

  • Available sizes: 4.5 — 11
  • Available colors: 2

3

These Colorful PVC Heels For Daytime Weddings

Leg-lengthening “naked” shoes have been popular for a while, and these PVC mules are a colorful twist on the trend — and they’re perfect for any casual and/or daytime wedding. The block heel clocks in at just a little over 3 inches, so you can comfortably dance the day away, and the polyvinyl sole has two clear straps to keep your feet secure; and since they’re mules, you can easily slip them on and off. Choose from five pretty, mermaid-inspired colors: pink, green, gold, silver, and purple.

Enthusiastic review: “Fits perfectly. Super comfortable. Can wear em all day!”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 9.5
  • Available colors: 5

4

A Pair Of Classic Black Pumps At An Amazing Price

Everyone needs a pair of classic black pumps — and at under $40, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better value than this pair. They feature a closed toe, 4-inch heel, and a patent leather finish that’s appropriate for cocktail and black-tie weddings. The thermoplastic rubber sole has a padded insole for extra comfort, so you can dance the night away. And they come in 26 colors and finishes (including a pretty watercolor-inspired floral print) if you’re in the market for something other than black.

Enthusiastic review: “These are some of the most comfortable heels that I have ever worn and I have worn a LOT! I appreciate the arch support that you get even while wearing heels. I also like that they do not rub the back of my achilles heel or right below my ankle, like a lot of other shoes do. They pump is also quite beautiful. I sure hope the seller keeps these in their inventory because I will be a customer for life!”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 11
  • Available colors: 26

5

Editor’s Pick: A Pair Of Minimalist-Chic Mules That Come In 18 Colors

Finding the shade or finish for a wedding shoe can be stressful, but these strappy, square-toed mules by The Drop come in 19 colors — from cherry red to clear to snakeskin — so you’re sure to find one you love for your upcoming casual wedding. They’re made from polyurethane with a synthetic lining, with slip-on straps; and the square 3-inch heel and toe are just a little bit ’90s minimalist in all the best ways.

Editor praise: “These are by far my favorite sandals right now. I have the black studded pair, and the double straps help keep them in place while walking. Plus, the heels are on the wider side, making the shoes shockingly comfortable. I can’t wait to buy more colors.” — Bustle Editor Amanda Fama

  • Available sizes: 5 — 13
  • Available colors: 19

6

These Designer-Looking Gold Heels You Can Wear All Year Long

These chunky gold heels are the sort of classic and versatile shoe that can take you through every seasons and most dress codes. The chunky, 3.15-inch heel won’t sink into grass, and feels surprisingly comfortable for dancing. These metallic gold finish pairs equally well with floaty summer dresses as it does rich winter velvets, and the pleated finish and oversize bow detail add texture. Keen eyes may notice that these are a dead-ringer for Loeffler Randall sandals — but at about $56, they’re much more affordable. And if you don’t love the gold, you have 26 more metallics, solids, and prints to choose from.

Enthusiastic review: “I am so happy with these shoes! I've been looking for a Loeffler Randall dupe to wear for my wedding, and these are perfect! I ordered the blue and the color is as expected based on the photo. The shoes also fit true to size. I love the style so I will probably order another color for myself!”

  • Available sizes: 5.5 — 14.5
  • Available colors: 27

7

This Pair Of Wedge Espadrilles For A Casual Summer Wedding

If you’re headed to an outdoor or beach wedding, these wedge espadrilles by The Drop are just the thing to keep you looking cute while preventing your heels from sinking into the ground. They feature wide faux-leather straps with a buckle ankle closure, and a chunky, textured synthetic sole that’s perfect for walking through sand. Wear them with shorts and a floaty tank to brunch the next day.

Enthusiastic review: “I ordered a size 7 and it fits just right. Note that the sandal has a narrow width; size up for wider widths. I like that the soles have cushioning and are comfortable for walking. The sandal appears much more expensive than its price! It completes many of my outfits! I was compelled to also purchase the black color!!!”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 13
  • Available colors: 5

8

These Glittery Heels That Are Ready To Party

These 3-inch glittery heels are precisely the sort of fun yet elegant shoe you’ll want to wear to all your formal and black-tie weddings. The glitter is a show-stopping detail, but they also have a rubber outsole for traction and lightly padded faux-leather insole to keep your feet comfy (lots of standing at weddings, after all!). The criss-cross ankle straps with a buckle fastener looks gorgeous peeking from beneath your gown or cocktail dress; a simple, single-toe strap completes the look. Not a glitter person? You have nine more colors and materials to choose from, including a handful of luxurious satin options in rich jewel tones.

Enthusiastic review: “Very cute shoe for the price and very comfortable. I have worn these to two weddings now and have worn them all night long! I would recommend them if you needed a good cheap lower height heel for an event.”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 11
  • Available colors: 10

9

Some Strappy Sandals With An On-Trend Flared Heel

If you love the flared heel trend, try out these strappy shoes by Steve Madden. That au-courant flared 4.5-inch heel isn’t the only detail to recommend these sandals — they also feature a dramatic wraparound ankle strap and a square open toe with a dainty and minimal toe strap. They’re made of faux leather with a synthetic lining and sole, and the vibrant color can take you from daytime summer weddings to evening, whether you pair them with busy prints or simple solids. Note that these run small, so size up if you’re between sizes.

Enthusiastic review: “They are super cute, the heel is very [comfortable]. After reading some reviews went up a half size and they fit perfectly. Aslo have a very narrow foot so for someone who has a wider they could be small.”

  • Available sizes: 5.5 — 10
  • Available colors: 7

10

A Pair Of Extra-Comfy Mules With Chunky Braided Straps

A pair of on-trend heels that are also comfy? These mules by CUSHIONAIRE are here to prove it, thanks to a thick, 2-inch block heel that keeps you stable and a memory foam-padded insole. The double-braided straps are perfectly extra. Contrast the shoe’s chunky silhouette by wearing them with a floaty chiffon or slinky slip dress for all your daytime and summer weddings.

Enthusiastic review: “These babies fit so fine. I have narrow feet and they fit like a glove. They are so secure and I like that I don't feel like I'm going to slip out of them.”

  • Available sizes: 6 — 11 (available in wide)
  • Available colors: 5

11

These Closed-Toe Pumps Designed With Comfort In Mind

Every detail of these closed-toe pumps adds to their comfort and versatility. The heel measures 2.75 inches (perfect for those who prefer a lower heel); they also feature ultra-comfy cushioned soles and they’re available in medium and wide widths, so you can customize your fit. A traction sole offers extra stability. Made from synthetic material with a slip-on fit, the closed toe and heel are contrasted by a single criss-cross strap with elastic goring for an extra touch of flexibility, and another dainty (yet functional) detail to recommend these shoes for your daytime and semi-formal weddings.

Enthusiastic review: “These were a good purchase. For a girl who NEVER wears heels, I was able to rock these for 5+ hours on my first time wearing them at a wedding. For me, all heels are uncomfortable, and I’ll be honest, after some time so we’re these. However I didn’t get any blisters so I count that as a win, and I left the wedding with my heels still on which may be a first for me.”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 11 (available in wide sizes)
  • Available colors: 5

12

These Candy-Colored Heeled Mules From Coach

How adorable (and on-trend) are the puffy straps of these candy-colored sandals by Coach? Made from real leather with a leather lining and upper, these heels are great for daytime, semi-formal, and summer indoor weddings. The square toe is a modern take on a ’90s classic, and the thin, 3.5-inch heel is pure elegance. And since Coach is known for quality, you know you’ll hold onto these for years to come.

  • Available sizes: 5 — 11
  • Available colors: 5

13

A Pair Of PVC Pumps You Can Wear To Formal Weddings

Love the look of PVC shoes but need something formal enough to wear for black-tie weddings? Consider these ultra-cool, pointed-toe pumps. The dramatic, flared crystal-clear heel clocks in at a sophisticated 3.5 inches, and a cushioned footbed offers extra comfort. The PVC upper is embellished with gorgeous crystals, making them totally appropriate for elevated affairs — in fact, one reviewer bought these to wear on their own wedding day. Some shoppers mention that these run small, so you may want to grab a size up.

Enthusiastic review: “Love them! Amazing and super comfortable!”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 12
  • Available colors: 9

14

A Pair Of Puffy Platform Mules For Daytime Weddings

The heels on these fun platform mules by Sam Edelman are extra chunky, so if you wear them to a beach wedding, no need to worry about sinking into the sand. They feature a wide, pillowy faux leather upper in a slide-on mule style. The heel measures 3.75 inches, high enough that you can wear these to a casual evening wedding. Don’t put these away when the wedding’s over: They’ll look just as cute with a pair of straight-leg denim or a floaty sundress.

Enthusiastic review: “These shoes are fabulous!! They are comfortable and the strap is tight so they feel very secure. They are easy to walk in. Just like wearing any heel, the ball of your foot will be sore after a while. The cushion does feel good for a while though. Overall, I adore these platforms.”

  • Available sizes: 5 — 11
  • Available colors: 7

15

These Pearl-Adorned Sandals That Make A Major Statement

You can’t guarantee that the wedding will be fun, but in these statement heels by Betsey Johnson, at least your feet will be. Made of faux leather with a polyurethane sole, they have crystal and pearl ankle straps with a zip closure for easy on-and-off, while a flared Lucite heel is complemented by an on-trend square toe. The delicate ankle strap is the perfect minimalist counterbalance to all that drama.

  • Available sizes: 5 — 12
  • Available colors: 3

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