As the summer months draw ever closer, you might be thinking about what to wear for the various wedding receptions looming on your calendar.
Lots of people have doubts about what clothing is appropriate for wedding wear. We worry about dress codes and feeling comfortable – you’ll need that when you’re busting moves with the bride and groom – and of course the unpredictable British climate.
Finding your ideal outfit might require more than a quick iron of last year’s suit or dusting off your best wedding hat, but with our guide to styling cheap wedding shoes, you’ll have your footwear choices nailed in the blink of an eye – without breaking the bank.
Styling cheap wedding shoes for men
When it comes to footwear, there are no wedding shoe police but you’ll find that most people enjoy bringing out their smartest styles for the occasion. Traditional and safe, black leather lace-ups are often the order of the day for men. Don’t feel confined to these boundaries, however – rules are made to be broken!
One tip to consider is wearing black shoes with dark formalwear (excluding navy) and wearing tan or dark brown with lighter colours and navy. Browns are also more suited to casual outfits if the dress code is less strict. On such an occasion, why not break the mould with a stand-out loafer?
What different styles of shoe are available?
When in doubt for a formal occasion, stick with tradition.
The most iconic formal shoe for men is the Oxford, also known as the Balmoral. This silhouette is timeless and uses classic closed lacing – a must-have for your shoe rack. Oxfords have become synonymous with business and eveningwear so they are the ideal addition to finish off a suit.
For a more daring look, consider a buckled style. With classic brogue detailing, this black design from Red Tape is brave, on-trend and will transform the simplest suit.
Can I wear trainers to a wedding?
You might have a burning desire to wear your favourite pair of trainers at all times – don’t we all – but scuffed, tired sneakers will generally look out of place at a formal do. However, if you’re confident the atmosphere will be laid-back or you’re daring enough to make a statement, then go for it.
Just make sure they’re looking box-fresh, and try pairing them with a slim-fit trouser – otherwise, you’re in jeopardy of looking less risk-taker, more mick taker. Check out our Converse collection for a stylish trainer that can be dressed up as well as down.
Handy shoe tips & tricks
If you’ve decided to treat yourself to a new pair of shoes for the big day, it may be beneficial to wear them around the house for about a week before the wedding.
We’ve all felt the pinch that can come with breaking in new shoes and a bit of practice will give your feet a fighting chance at surviving the evening. This will reduce your likelihood of waking up the next day with sore feet or even worse, a blister or two!
Read our guide to breaking in new shoes and if you’ve already fallen foul to blisters, check out this article for treating and preventing them.
It may also be a good idea to gently scuff the soles of your shoes with some sandpaper – this will buff away some of the new-shoe shine and help you to avoid slipping while dancing to the “Cha Cha Slide”.
If you are aiming for a sleek “007” look, polishing your shoes will give you that luxurious finish. Just remember to take the labels off the bottom; you don’t want to spoil the dapper illusion!
Styling cheap wedding shoes for women
The type of shoe you decide to wear may depend on the type of wedding you are attending, its location and your planned outfit. Whether you’re in a church, garden, boat or on a beach, we have a range of footwear suitable for your needs.
The classic stiletto
The word “stiletto” may make your feet ache, but there is nothing to be afraid of! They come in a range of heights to suit any tolerance and a strappy open-toe stiletto can elongate the legs and add a dash of sophistication to any formal outfit.
On the other hand, you should beware if the reception takes place on a grassy or sandy surface – those heels will sink faster than you can say “Titanic”. Although, you may have a height advantage if you want to catch the bouquet!
Choose our rose-gold Truffle Tait sandals for a versatile style which will complement a wide range of dresses.
Comfort and poise rolled into one
Are you looking for a little more stability and comfort? Try a wedge or block-heeled sandal during spring and summer.
With added foot support and extra surface area, heel newbies are sure to find this style more comfortable and you’re less likely to fall over too. Our glittery silver Apache sandals are as much an accessory as they are footwear.
If you’ve got weddings coming up in autumn winter and you’d like a bit more protection from the elements, reach for an on-trend mule instead. Formal yet unusual and daring, this style will make sure you’re the talk of the room (after the bride of course!)
What if I don’t do heels?
Heels may look the part, but they aren’t for everyone – and that’s okay! There are endless options to make your wedding guest outfit stand out from the crowd.
Flat gladiator sandals are feminine, stylish and suitable for the pickiest of feet and almost any location! Your toes may get a bit chilly if you are attending a winter wedding, but you will definitely be ‘best dressed’. Team our minimalist leather Blowfish gladiators with a floaty maxi dress for an enviable boho look.
Ballet pumps are another great alternative to heels and can look just as dressy if you wear them well. Reach for our white Platino pumps in on-trend slingback for a stylish, comfortable look that pops. Nobody will think you’re underdressed.
Handy shoe tips & tricks
If you haven’t quite mastered the art of wearing heels, practice walking in them a few times before the big event. This will break in your new shoes, and make them as comfortable as possible for a long day.
Buy some shoe grips or rub a nail file on the bottom of your shoes if they are a tad slippery. You don’t want to be that guest falling in slow motion on the wedding pictures!
If you’re a footwear pro, you may already know this handy little tip; pack a footwear survival kit in your clutch! You could include things such as plasters and gel inserts to prevent blisters and sore feet.
If you do decide to take the plunge and wear stiletto heels, it may be a wise move to bring a pair of flats or flip-flops with you, especially if you are planning to dance until the early hours.
We want to see your #WeddingStyleWyns. Tag us in your pictures @wynsors_shoes on Instagram if you’re wearing Wynsors footwear and you might see your post regrammed on our page!
