5 Tips for Killer Wedding Shoes that Don't Kill your Feet
Blame it on Sex and the City or Christian Louboutin, but it seems that wedding shoes have gotten taller, skinnier, and harder to walk in. And those pointy pinchers can take a serious toll on the soles. A typical wedding day from start to finish can include up to 10 hours of standing, and there’s nothing cute about hobbling off to your honeymoon covered in blisters.
If the past year has told us anything about foot fashion, it’s that more than ever, comfort is important to women. At the 2018 Golden Globe Awards, Millie Bobby Brown sashayed across the red carpet in sparkly kitten heels, while female powerhouses like Gal Gadot brought flats back, prioritizing support, strength, and balance over sexy. And with Serena Williams unabashedly sporting sparkly Nikes at her nuptials, it’s only a matter of time before foot health will be more than an afterthought for brides.
Thanks to innovative technology and some out of the stiletto thinking, there are plenty of emerging styles that don’t channel that orthopedic look. Toms, most known for philanthropic canvas slip-ons, carries bridal products from wedges to lacey spins on the classic canvas flat, while Kate Spade has elevated bedazzled Keds to whole new tier.
No matter what designer you choose to outfit your hooves, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind. To ensure we provide the best intel, we asked Dr. Wendy Nach, a podiatrist with over 29 years in her rearview, to sum up her go-to recipe for happy feet.
Heel Height in Moderation
"Because of the angle in your foot in relation to the ground, extremely high heels can put stress and pressure on the ball of the foot, causing discomfort and injury. Up to three inches can work so don't think you need to wear slippers."
Check out this Brand: Bella Belle
Be Style Smart
"Certain styles like platform soles or wedges are more gentle because they distribute the pressure and stress to counteract a steep heel angle. Open toes and sandals also work because they allow the toes to move and breathe."
Check out this Brand: Castañer
Material Matters
"An inflexible, hard, and rigid material can make a shoe more likely to rub and cut. Select flexible materials that have some “give “ like leather, suede, and silk. Avoid faux leather. (Sorry eco-friendly/vegan brides.) If you’re not sure about the material, just feel it between your fingers and see if it stretches a little bit. Materials that stretch will be kinder to your feet."
Check out this Collection: BHLDN
Amp Up the Comfort
"Try placing a gel or felt pad in the shoe just behind the ball of your foot. This will help shift pressure behind your metatarsal to disperse it off the most sensitive spot."
Check out this Brand: Alice Bow
Give the Feet a Rest
"No matter how comfortable shoes may feel when you first slip them on, after they’ve been on your feet for a while, you’re probably going to start feeling them. Dancing will add even more wear and tear. And if you're in pain, chances are your guests are struggling right along with you. Try offering foot-friendly favors like flat and foldable ballet slippers."
Check out this Brand: Rescue Flats