Welcome to Aisle Style, a week-long series that features the most untraditional wedding fashion trends, bridal designers behind the coolest wedding looks, and brides who walk to the beat of their own “Canon In D.” Buck the tradition and say I do to personal style — the aisle is yours.
With wedding gown hemlines traditionally grazing the floor, bridal shoes often remain an afterthought. But that doesn’t mean some brides-to-be don’t want something fun to walk down the aisle in.
Over the past few years, as bridal trends have become less traditional — with everything from minis to ultra-high slits and pantsuits now in the mix — the opportunities to balance out the wedding look with accessories are plentiful. Take, for example, Nicola Beckham’s nuptial look in 2022, which included a pair of sky-high Versace platforms.
Brands are taking notice, too. Israeli bridal designer Pnina Tornai, for example, recently released a shoe collaboration with Naturalizer that’s anything but traditional, with big bows and bold colors found throughout the lineup, while Singaporean label Charles & Keith dropped bridal-ready sneakers.
Whatever the style, it’s clear that brands and brides alike are looking to step out of their comfort zone with wedding-ready footwear. Ahead, take a look at some of the best non-traditional bridal shoes out there.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Blythe Leather & Satin Bead-Embellished Sneakers
If comfort is your priority, pearl-embellished sneakers will take you from the altar to the dance floor.
Charles & Keith Blythe Leather & Satin Bead-Embellished Sneakers – White, $, available at Charles & Keith
Wandler Electra Platform Glittering Silver
The platform craze is not over, so go on and add five-plus inches to your wedding style.
Electra Electra Platform Glittering Silver, $, available at Wandler
Dolce Vita Nashe Booties
No ranch (or horse!) is needed to get married in a pair of trendy cowboy boots.
Dolce Vita Nashe Booties, $, available at Dolce Vita
Nomasei Adora Sandals
While most brides want the shoes to go unnoticed, we say these Nomasei sandals are the right pair to shine bright on your nuptials.
Nomasei Adora Sandals, $, available at Nomasei
Nine West Million Ankle Strap Heeled Sandals
Feathers are one of bridal fashion’s top trends for 2023, from dresses to accessories, and clearly, shoes.
Nine West Million Ankle Strap Heeled Sandals, $, available at Nine West
Aristocat Satin Ballet Flats
The mood for 2023 is bridal but make it balletcore, and flats are an essential to channel this ultra-feminine trend.
Sleeper Aristocat Satin Ballet Flats, $, available at Sleeper
Naturalizer x Pnina Tornai Amour Dress Sandal
For the bride that’s going for a “more is more” aesthetic, these Viva Magenta-esque shoes (also available in white and black) definitely add the right amount of boldness and glamour to any gown.
Naturalizer Amour Dress Sandal, $, available at Naturalizer
Neous Gunite Pump
Sometimes giving a classic shoe like a kitten-heel pump a small twist (see: cut-out detail on this pair) is the best way to break bridal rules.
Neous Gunite, $, available at Neous
Dr. Martens 8065 Leather Mary Janes
Brides into ’90s grunge style, take note of these wedding-ready Mary Jane shoes.
Dr. Martens 8065 Smooth Leather Mary Jane Shoes, $, available at Dr. Martens
Loeffler Randall Emilia Pleated Bow Sandals
You’ll be so golden (and comfy!) in these uber-comfortable sandals, adding a pop of metallic to an otherwise minimal palette.
Loeffler Randall Loeffler Randall Emilia Pleated Bow Sandals, $, available at Shopbop
Steve Madden Utopia Sandal
From clips to tops, butterflies have conquered fashion trends once again, giving brides a chance to channel their Y2K dreams.
Steve Madden Utopia Sandal, $, available at Steve Madden
Eleftheria Bridal Mid Wedge
Speaking of the ’00s… It’s true: wedges are also trending in 2023. Make them part of your big day, too.
Ancient Greek Sandals Eleftheria Bridal Mid Wedge, $, available at Ancient Greek Sandals
Betsey Johnson Candy Boots
If boots are your comfort shoe, who says they can’t be present on your wedding day? Try pearls or rhinestones to add some bridal style.
Betsey Johnson Blue by Betsey Johnson Boots, $, available at Zappos
Sam Edelman Terra Slingback Heel
The silver metallic trend is one of the year’s most versatile styles, proving it also has a place in your bridal wardrobe.
Sam Edelman Terra Slingback Heel, $, available at Sam Edelman
Cult Gaia Shannon Feather-trimmed Mules
For the party-minded, there’s always a way to bring the dance floor to the altar, and feathers are just the right detail to add to do so.
Cult Gaia Shannon feather-trimmed leather and PVC mules, $, available at Net-A-Porter
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