What type of bridesmaid shoes are most comfortable?

Shoes that don't have a very high heel, plenty of arch support, and a padded foot are going to be the most comfortable options. Look for platforms, block heels, wedges, or flats over stilettos and sky-high footwear.

How will I know if my bridesmaid shoes will be comfortable?

Make sure you wear your bridesmaid shoes before the big day, at least once or twice. This can help stretch them out, and will also give you a warning if they're way too uncomfortable to wear. You can also buy accessories to make your shoes more manageable, such as shoe insoles for extra padding. If you're unsure where to start, we already did some of the work for you! Our list above features styles that we tested in the real world, as well as options that we heavily researched.

Do bridesmaids buy their own shoes?

It can be confusing or awkward figuring out what the bridal party pays for in a wedding. It is customary for the bridal party to pay for their own outfits (dresses, tuxedos, and shoes). As far as hair and makeup expenses, sometimes the bride will foot the bill for this, and other times the bridesmaids will be expected to take care of their own beauty expenses.

The 26 Most Comfortable Bridal Party Shoes of 2023

baby blue wedding shoes with floral details — Photo by Jacqueline Benét

For the bride and members of the bridal party alike, a wedding is a very exciting but long day. Depending on the size of the event, bridesmaids could be in their gowns, hair, and makeup from the morning until midnight. This also extends to footwear. While you may not be in your shoes every moment of the day, you will be wearing them quite a lot—during endless photos, standing for the entire ceremony, and for a greater portion of the reception. So, ideally, you'll want your bridal party shoes to be as comfortable as possible.

In fact, comfort should really be the number one priority when shopping for a pair of bridesmaid shoes. Trust us, the last thing you want is for your feet to be hurting as you walk down the aisle or hit the dance floor. Therefore, it's important to consider what styles and silhouettes you feel most comfortable and confident walking in. If you've never worn stilettos, go for a more practical shoe like pretty flats or wedges. It's also important to consider the venue. If the ceremony will be on grass or sand, you may need to re-think those heels.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options for every type of wedding formality, location, and aesthetic that are both stylish and comfortable. To help narrow down your search, we've researched the most comfortable bridal party shoes and have even tested a few for ourselves at real weddings. We made our final selections based on comfort level (duh!), size range, price point, style, and overall quality.

Read on for the best comfortable bridal party shoes.

NATURALIZER True Colors Vera Ankle Strap Sandal

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These Naturalizer sandals come in a large variety of colors, they're versatile enough to go with almost any kind of dress, and they get rave reviews online. The low block heel is sturdy and gives height without feeling too wobbly, and the contoured insole with arch support is comfortable enough to wear for hours on end. These shoes check all the boxes for comfortable bridal party shoes which makes them our top overall pick.

Price at time of publish: $120

Size: 4-12 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 18

AndrÃ© Assous

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If your bridal bestie is getting married at the beach, you can't go wrong with a good pair of espadrilles. We love the balance of beach aesthetics and understated elegance in this pair. We’ve worn these wedges on several tropical vacations, and although the heel is high, the thick raffia sole kept us comfortable. The slip-on style made them easy to get on and off, and the leather upper fit tightly to help avoid slipping. These are perfect for a stunning seaside venue with an ocean view.

Price at time of publish: $329

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

Courtesy of Steve Madden

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If you're looking for a one-shoe-fits-all option, this is it. We've worn Steve Madden's Lilah Heel to several weddings, and they never disappoint. The tan shade has made them easy to pair with every formal outfit, but they're also available in white and black. The thick block heel kept us comfortable for hours, and the two cross-straps help keep our feet secure while still making them easy to slip off before hitting the dance floor.

Price at time of publish: $70

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: 3

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These flirty, delicate shoes feature crinkled taffeta bows and a slim ankle strap that are fun, feminine, and so pretty to photograph. They're also a great option if you're wearing a short dress that shows off your feet. One tester wore these to an outdoor wedding and loved that they were a stylish and incredibly comfortable option. She also loved that these can be worn on grass and felt great after wearing them for hours on the dance floor.

Price at time of publish: $395

Size: 6-10 | Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: 6

Alterre

View On Alterreny.com

Block heels are the ultimate solution to making high heels more comfortable, as they provide a sturdier platform to stand on. Plus, they're a safer bet for ceremonies taking place outside. We wore these to a wedding on gravel grounds, and these were the perfect choice.

The 3-inch heel wasn't uncomfortable but also gave us enough height. These have a substantial block heel that kept us stable, even while walking down the gravel aisle. We wore these all day and night, and we could still walk in the morning! Plus, the pretty pleated satin and nude shade go with all kinds of bridal party dresses. The best part? These have removable ankle straps—you get two styles in one purchase!

Price at time of publish: $277

Size: 6-10 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: 1

AndrÃ© Assous

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If your bride is getting married directly on the sand, you'll need to go with a shoe option that has a flat sole. If you're not one for flats or sandals, consider going with a platform wedge like this one from André Assous. We've worn these platforms to several beach settings. They elevated our outfits while still allowing us to walk seamlessly through the sand, making them a foolproof choice for seaside nuptials.

Price at time of publish: $330

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 3

Steve Madden

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For formal weddings and dresses in darker tones like black, navy blue, or forest green, these heels should be your go-to. We've had these shoes for several years and wear them regularly—from formal events to elevating a more casual outfit. The ankle strap and block heel make them easy for us to walk long distances in if needed, and we love how the suede black finish creates a luxurious look and feel.

Price at time of publish: $80

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: 2

Courtesy of Naturalizer

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Simple and minimalist, these basic pumps are a must-have for almost any bridesmaid. They come in five different shades, including neutrals and fun pops of color, and a wide variety of sizes (as well as narrow or wide options). The pointed toe makes them sleek while maintaining Naturalizer's signature comfort at the forefront.

Price at time of publish: $120

Size: 5-13 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: 5

Courtesy of Marc Fisher.

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A low-block heel makes these Marc Fisher LTD shoes stable, comfortable, and versatile, meaning you'll definitely wear them again. They come in 18 different colors—some neutral and some bright and fun—so if you're trying to match your dress, you'll likely be able to find a suitable option for you.

Price at time of publish: $160

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 18

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Stay ultra-comfortable without sacrificing style. These block-heeled sandals are a great basic for weddings and beyond, as the slingback and "S" shaped strap are playful and worthy details. These come in a beige, black, white, or bright pink hue to suit a variety of bridal party dresses and styles.

Price at time of publish: $55

Size: 6-12 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: 4

Birdy Grey

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These neutral-colored heels are a classic choice that can be worn at almost any type of wedding, not to mention you can wear them again and again after the big day. The low-block heels are comfortable and the adjustable ankle strap offers added support for a variety of outdoor surfaces and venue floors.

Price at time of publish: $49

Size: 6-10 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 6

Naturalizer

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If sandals are your favorite style, don't worry! You can still wear them for more formal occasions like your best friend's wedding. For a more elevated sandal look, opt for these sparkly Naturalizer sandals. The crystal detailing provides some subtle shimmer, and the straps and low heels keep them comfortable from the aisle to the after-party.

Price at time of publish: $100

Size: 4-13 | Heel Height: 2.25 inches | Colors: 6

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If you're going for a classic and elegant vibe, your search stops here. These d'Orsay pumps have a bit of a vintage feel to them, and they're a feminine pick that would look pretty with both a short or long dress. They come in a variety of colors, and while the heel is slim, it's not too high for a stable and comfortable fit.

Price at time of publish: $140

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 2.75 inches | Colors: 10

Courtesy of Bella Belle

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Covered in sequins and embellished crystals, these shoes will catch everyone's eye, even under a long dress. They're made with extra padding for comfort, so even if the heel is a little high, you should be able to manage just fine. Pair these with sparkling diamond accessories for an extra luxe touch.

Price at time of publish: $419

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: 1

View On Birdies.com

Make your look even more stylish by opting for this pair of flats from Bridies. We love this crystal-encrusted shoe that feels at once luxe and fancy. The inside cushioning feels "cloud-like," and the no-slip rubber sole will allow you to dance with ease.

Price at time of publish: $165

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 15 millimeters | Colors: 15

Courtesy of Dillards

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What makes these otherwise classic heels unique is the allover crystal embellishments that are sure to sparkle under the wedding venue lights. Plus, they have a low heel, back heel support, and ankle strap for maximum comfort.

Price at time of publish: $109

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 2.25 inches | Colors: 5

Courtesy of Bella Belle

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Beach weddings and ceremonies held on a lawn call for flat sandals, but there's no reason they have to be boring. These embellished sandals from Bella Belle feature some sparkle and shine, and while they're flat to the floor, they're still lightly padded.

Price at time of publish: $195

Size: 6-11 | Heel Height: 0.5 inches | Colors: 1

Courtesy of Jimmy Choo

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You don't have to spend a lot on bridesmaid shoes, but if you choose to, these Jimmy Choo pumps are an excellent choice. The glittery fabric is incredibly eye-catching and glamorous, especially for black-tie events. We love the idea of wearing these for winter weddings with a snowy backdrop.

Price at time of publish: $775

Size: 4-13 | Heel Height: 3.3 inches | Colors: 1

Courtesy of Dillards

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Kitten heels are another heel height that provides comfort. These come in three different hues and have the Antonio Melani High-Frequency Comfort Sock, which is a molded arch pad, layered comfort heel pad, comfort ball pad, and perforated toe area. Your feet will thank you at the end of the night!

Price at time of publish: $98

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 2.1 inches | Colors: 3

Courtesy of Aerosoles

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These mule shoes are on-trend and a more casual option, should the dress code allow you to wear them. What's interesting about this pair, is that they have a unique diamond pattern that disperses friction away from the foot for added comfort.

Price at time of publish: $99

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 2.25 inches | Colors: 6

Loeffler Randall

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This beautiful botanical floral print shoe features a 2-inch heel to give you just the right amount of life. The blocked heel and padded footbed ensure a comfortable shoe that will keep you dancing well into the afterparty. For optimum comfort, they recommend you size up a half size for average-width feet and one full size for wider feet. These shoes prove that low heel shoes can be both comfortable and stylish.

Price at time of publish: $350

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 2 inches | Colors: 6

Zappos

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These ultra-comfy slip-on flats are perfect for those needing extra width in their shoe. They come in wide and extra wide (along with narrow and medium) and go up to size 12. In addition, they are available in 20 different colors, ranging from black to blue and metallic. The anti-odor lining features cushioning and even arch support for comfort.

Price at time of publish: $100

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: Flat | Colors: 20

COurtesy of DSW

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If you are looking for a wedding day wedge that doesn’t have a raffia or cork sole for a more formal wedding, this Hemesta wedge sandal is a perfect choice. The 3-inch wedge will give you a lift, while the padded footbed and adjustable strap ensure a comfortable fit. This shoe is available in a variety of colors, including nude, black, and even a floral print.

Price at time of publish: $70

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: 6

Nordstrom

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These braided trim sneakers are perfect for a beach, outdoor venue, or a more casual wedding. The woven espadrille platform gives this white sneaker an upgraded look, while the cushioned footbed ensures a comfortable fit.

Price at time of publish: $89

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 0.6 inches | Colors: 1

Lulus

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This strappy heel is under $35, but the comfort and style make it look much more expensive. The 2.5-inch block heel and cushioned insole ensure a comfortable fit. This shoe also comes in a wide variety of colors and fabrics (including suede and embellished with rhinestones), so you have plenty of variety to choose from.

Price at time of publish: $32

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 17

Revolve

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For those who want shoes that are both comfortable and strappy, look no further than these Sam Edelman gladiator sandals. The small heel and lace-up design can be dressed up or dressed down, depending on your wedding venue. This shoe is also available in several color choices. You can enjoy the wedding day looking polished and feeling comfortable.

Price at time of publish: $130

Size: 5-10.5 | Heel Height: 1.2 inches | Colors: 4

What to Look for in a Comfortable Bridesmaid Shoe

Heel Height

When looking for comfortable bridesmaid shoes, you should really focus on the heel height, the type of heel, and how much support they have. Higher heels are almost always going to be a little more uncomfortable, especially after wearing them for hours. A 2.5" heel is a near-perfect option that offers a good mix of comfort and some height, such as the Naturalizer True Colors Vera Ankle Strap Sandal.

Venue and Location

Use the venue and destination of the wedding as a guide to the type of shoes you should wear as a bridesmaid. Will you be walking down the aisle in the grass at an outdoor garden location? If so, opt for styles with thick block heels or go with flats, such as the Birdies The Swan Snow Crystal Bracelet. Beach weddings call for espadrilles, while venues on gravel will require added support around the ankles.

Material

Shoes made with materials such as suede or leather are softer and less likely to cause blisters than shoes made out of materials like lucite or plastic. Shoes made out of softer materials, like leather, will also form to your feet and become more comfortable as you wear them (which is why it is important to break in your shoes before the big day). Some shoes even have an antimicrobial lining, such as the SoftWalk Sonoma Flat.

Style

Block heels, kitten heels, and wedges are not only comfortable choices, but they work well for every dress code. What's more, you can choose formal flats, such as the Birdies The Swan Snow Velvet Crystal Bracelet flats if heels are a no-go for you. Look for padding inside the shoe regardless of the heel, and always remember to test out your shoes before the big day.

FAQ

What type of bridesmaid shoes are most comfortable?

Shoes that don't have a very high heel, plenty of arch support, and a padded foot are going to be the most comfortable options. Look for platforms, block heels, wedges, or flats over stilettos and sky-high footwear.
How will I know if my bridesmaid shoes will be comfortable?

Make sure you wear your bridesmaid shoes before the big day, at least once or twice. This can help stretch them out, and will also give you a warning if they're way too uncomfortable to wear. You can also buy accessories to make your shoes more manageable, such as shoe insoles for extra padding. If you're unsure where to start, we already did some of the work for you! Our list above features styles that we tested in the real world, as well as options that we heavily researched.
Do bridesmaids buy their own shoes?

It can be confusing or awkward figuring out what the bridal party pays for in a wedding. It is customary for the bridal party to pay for their own outfits (dresses, tuxedos, and shoes). As far as hair and makeup expenses, sometimes the bride will foot the bill for this, and other times the bridesmaids will be expected to take care of their own beauty expenses.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Jessica Booth is a freelance writer and formerly served as an editor for seven years. Her work has been featured in Bustle, Insider, Redbook, and Refinery29.

Chloe Caldwell is a Commerce Writer for Brides who specializes in shopping and lifestyle topics. She has six years of journalism experience writing about all things fashion, beauty, travel, and wellness.

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