Whilst the wedding dress is the centre of attention (and rightly so!), bridal shoes deserve equal attention when it comes to your wedding day. Whether you've chosen a mini dress to showcase your pedicure or a floor-length gown, the perfect bridal shoe will help you confidently glide down the aisle.
SKY HIGH STILETTOS
Simple yet sexy, the stiletto pump is the ideal choice for understated brides. The slender heel and pointed toe-box elongates the body whilst helping you walk, or should we say - glide - angelically down the aisle. When shopping for a timeless stiletto, one man (brand) springs to mind; the red-soled wonder, Mr Christian Louboutin.
There are five Louboutin stiletto styles to choose from for your big day, so to help you say ‘I Do’, we created a quick Luxe 101 of our recommended Louboutin stiletto heels to take you from the ceremony to the dance floor and beyond.
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LOUBOUTIN KATE
Coined the mainstay of the Louboutin collection, the Kate stiletto pump (named after Kate Moss) is characterized by a plunging silhouette that shows a touch of toe cleavage, to deliver a subtle hint of sex appeal appropriate for any occasion. The Kate pump is available in multiple tapered heel heights; 55mm (2.1”), 85mm (3.3”) & 100mm (4”), so you can tailor how high you wish to be - or can handle.
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LOUBOUTIN SO KATE
The stereotypical younger sister to the Kate, the So Kate stiletto pump is more daring but equally as sophisticated. Both styles feature the same narrow, elongated toe box, however, the So Kate is only available with a 120mm (4.7”) heel height. The higher heel leads to a slightly more pronounced arch and pitch than the original Kate, which gives the So Kate a sultry edge.
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LOUBOUTIN PIGALLE
The Louboutin Pigalle stiletto is a great choice for brides looking to add some Parisian flair to their bridal look. An ode to the famous Parisian District, the Pigalle follows a more traditional stiletto silhouette with a slightly thicker heel width. Compared to the original Kate pumps, the Louboutin Pigalle features a (much) shorter toe box and low-cut vamp to maximize toe decolletage. Pitch-wise, the Pigalle shares the same pitch as the So Kate to create the desired arch we all love from a stiletto heel. The Pigalle is also available in 85mm (3.3”) or 100mm (4”) heel heights.
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LOUBOUTIN IRIZA
If you’re looking for a stiletto pump with a little more intrigue, the Iriza is for you. A classic Louboutin shape but with a revealing half d’Orsay cut-out, the Iriza stiletto is classic, yet contemporary all at once. Bonus, the Iriza is available as a heeled pump and a flat, so you can slip into something comfortable yet elegant to dance the night away.
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LOUBOUTIN HOT CHICK
Finally, the Hot Chick - the most quirky of the Louboutin stilettos. The Louboutin Hot Chick features a seductive scalloped edge that mimics a Cupid's bow, delivering a romantic twist perfect for a wedding. Ideal for wearing both under a long dress or showcased with a shorter number, the Hot Chick also shares the same shorter toe-box as the Pigalle. Like the So Kate, the Hot Chick is available in only one heel height with a stunning 100mm (4”) heel.
SHIMMERING SANDALS
Elegant and effortless, a heeled sandal is a popular bridal choice. One of the most versatile options, a pair of heeled bridal sandals work perfectly for any bridal aesthetic. From sleek ankle straps; to those that delicately snake up your ankle; to extravagant wings or bows - a-la-Jimmy Choo and Sophia Webster; a heeled sandal is an exquisite option for a wedding day.
Sophia Webster's bridal range also goes one step further to up the bridal ante. The bridal collection features "Wifey For Lifey" screen printed across the soles in metallic blue. Not enough blue? Dare to bare a pair of full-blue sandals for your wedding day.
PRETTY PLATFORMS
If you aim to reach cloud-9 in the literal sense, then a pair of pretty platforms will help you get there on your wedding day. Best left to heel aficionados; a platform can help deliver a retro or modern aesthetic depending on your overall bridal style. Follow in the footsteps of ever-so-glamourous brides like Ariana Grande, who wore a pair of Giuseppe Zanotti closed-toe platforms for her low-key home wedding. Prefer all-out glamour? Nicole Peltz-Beckham donned the cult Valentino sky-high platforms for her nuptials to Brooklyn Beckham; looking effortless doing so; hats off to you, Mrs Peltz-Beckham.
If you prefer to be down-to-earth, a chunky platform that mimics a flatform shape can always be a great option and is ideal for a long day on your feet.
ELEGANT KITTEN HEELS
Bridal kitten heels make a chic option for brides who don’t want to sacrifice style for comfort. No longer considered a fashion faux pas, a kitten heel is for the relaxed, demure, fashion-forward bride. The shorter heel height provides comfort, whilst still giving slight elevation and formality - perfect for a wedding.
From slingbacks to mules, beautifully crafted kitten heels can add magic to your bridal outfit. Desired for any occasion, but especially for a wedding, Mach & Mach creates footwear befitting a modern Cinderella. What the brand's kitten heels lack in height, they make up with details from the signature crystal double-bows, bejewelled straps, pearl-laden toe-boxes or lace detailing; they are literally a bridal dream.
STATEMENT FLATS
If heels have lost their appeal, firstly - understandable and secondly - don’t panic. Statement bridal flats are becoming ever-popular as wedding festivities become increasingly lavish. A statement pair of bridal flats, be it a pair of ballet pumps, sneakers or sandals - will see you through the wedding festivities.
A key trend for 2023, ballet pumps look the part by creating a classically feminine feel. Adorn with pearls, crystals or covered in full sequins - ballet pumps are for brides who want to slip into an elegant shoe that will match a formal affair.
For brides who want ultimate comfort and want no business teetering on heels; luxury designer sneakers are a cool alternative. The iconic Alexander McQueen sneakers look great in all white with metallic details and can match your new partner or your bridal party - your bridesmaids will thank you! Jimmy Choo heels are a bridal favourite, but the brand’s sneakers are just as special. A pair of white Jimmy Choo sneakers finished in glitter or adorned with crystal embellishments will catch the light and add to your bridal radiance.
PRE-LOVED DESIGNER SHOES
If you want to put your best foot forward on your wedding day, look no further than pre-loved luxury designer footwear. Choosing pre-loved footwear continues the love story of these luxury pieces and is an affordable - plus, sustainable - way to add a touch of luxury to your bridal trousseau. Our handpicked Bridal Edit is full of special pre-loved designer footwear, bags and accessories to get you aisle-ready for your wedding day.
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