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How the flat wedding shoe became such a chic proposition
As brides continue to break from tradition, comfort and ease are coming to the fore. Here, discover the shoe designers proving you don't need height to make an impact.
So, you’ve found the perfect dress for your big day: now, the next step is to find the accessories that’ll complete the look. One of the most pivotal, of course, is your bridal shoes: a good pair will elevate your outfit in more ways than one.
But what if you aren’t so enthused about that elevation (in the literal sense, at least). Whether you’re concerned about comfort or simply prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, a flat bridal shoe can be an entirely chic proposition: in fact, such is the demand, there are now some truly show-stopping options on the cards.
As more and more women turn away from the traditional fairytale to create a day that truly reflects them, sky-high heels are losing their stronghold on the bridal market. Even if you do want a pair of leg-lengthening stilettos for the ceremony, it’s likely you’ll revel in the chance to slip into something more comfortable once the first dance is over.
In fact, the trend for much less traditional bridalwear has been in the works for some time. "Over the last few years, white has become one of the most important investment colours for us across both clothing and accessories and, the feedback we’ve received from the store managers is that women are coming in in increasing numbers looking for something that goes beyond your typical wedding dress and has a fashion edge to it," Browns buying director Ida Peterson previously told us about changing wedding trends.
So, how does one pair a flat shoe with something as special as a wedding dress? (Or wedding suit, of course). The first thing to consider is the fabrication: smooth white leather can work with some silhouettes – a leather Mary-Jane will look perfect with a short wedding dress or sharp tailoring – but for something that can match the femininity of delicate lace or frothy tulle, it’s satin you need. A champagne sheen will feel instantly elegant, whether you opt for a pair of feminine ballet pumps or a classic pointed toe.
Embellishment is another great way to make sure your flats feel extra-special. The current trend for crystal-covered ballerinas transitions perfectly into wedding territory, while brands from Aquazzura to Gianvito Rossi have responded to the demand for comfortable wedding shoes by frosting pointed flats with dazzling crystals. Of course, lace is always a beautiful move, while sweet, fun details – think outsized bows and heart motifs – will punctuate your bridal look with a playful full-stop.
But the most important thing to remember? There are no rules. Whether you switch towering platforms for flats after dinner, walk the aisle in a slender ballerina or go all-out in sparkle-soaked sandals, the choice is entirely yours. You can even do the whole day in trainers, if you so wish (Jimmy Choo has a pair for precisely that.)
The most beautiful flat bridal shoes to wear on your big day
Known for its dazzling bridal collections, Jimmy Choo should be the first place you look for a shoe that shines. These flats are cleverly constructed from translucent tulle, meaning they'll complement fine, gauzy dresses, and dipped in crystals to ensure they're fit for a fairytale day.
For something you're guaranteed to get plenty of wear out of post-wedding, consider a timeless single-strap ballet flat. Gianvito Rossi's are crafted with precision to ensure a flattering fit: note the slender gold buckle, low-cut vamp and gently squared-off toe, which work together to create a chic, gamine feel.
In polished leather, this pair is perfect for punctuating a short and sharp mini dress or even a body-skimming midi.
Inspired by the antique chairs in Christian Dior's elegant home, the Cannage embroidery on these ballerinas is a classic house code. They're cut with a low and round vamp, which elongates the leg, and detailed with a sweet pearl-embellished bow.
Alaïa's coveted Le Cœur collection is made for special moments. The heart-shaped toes on these perspex (read: brilliantly leg-lengthening) slingbacks will peek playfully from your hemline, whether it's a flowing gown or a fun reception dress.
The Manolo Blahnik Hangisi is a shoe that should need little introduction. While you could make like Carrie Bradshaw and don the cerulean satin pair as your 'something blue', this pure white pair comes with maximum versatility. (And if you're tempted by a tiny heel, know they also come with in an easy kitten style.)
The ballerina that sparked a thousand copycats, Miu Miu's slinky satin shoes are perfect for taking you down the aisle – and onto the dancefloor.
Mach & Mach makes special-occasion shoes for magpies: these bow-tipped flats are a signature style. From the cutaway sides to the ultra-slim, super-sparkly straps, they're crafted to ensure an elegant fit, whether you're walking down the aisle or dancing the night away.
Proof that spectacular shoes don't have to come with a sky-high heel, Dolce & Gabbana's lacy slides, complete with glittering embellishment, are worthy of the most princess-level dresses.
Perfect for a chic city wedding, these polished leather flats are sharply pointed and detailed with little more than a discreet crystal buckle. Consider them perfect for grounding an equally minimalist dress.
One for the fashion bride, these patent-leather flats are squared off at the toe for a fresh take on the classically feminine shape. Pair them with an ankle-grazing hemline to ensure those crystalline ribbons can shine.
Want to wear trainers on your wedding day, or perhaps change into them later on? This crystal-studded pair from Jimmy Choo's bridal line is made for just that.
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