Sole Priorities: Why Comfort-First Wedding Footwear is Taking Over

Finding the perfect wedding shoe is no joke. Some of our brides find their dream shoe before they’ve even tried on a single dress whilst for some, the shoes slip all the way to the bottom of that very looooong wedding prep list.  Whichever camp you sit in, you’ve got something in common: comfort is EVERYTHING.  

Gone are the days when brides endured aching feet and blisters in towering stilettos for the sake of tradition.  2025 is bringing a whole revolution in bridal footwear, comfort is the new couture.  Modern brides are choosing shoes that not only reflect their personal style but promise all-day wearability from the ‘I do’s all the way through to the last dance.  Recently we’ve had brides rock up with everything from edgy Doc Martens and classic Converse to chic embellished flats and even – really truly – bridal Crocs.  The aisle is fast becoming a runway for comfort-forward choices.   

Comfort reigns supreme 

Over the past few weeks in particular, it’s been fascinating to see what brides are actually picking for their big day.  Doc Martens that just peek out under the skirt, pale pink Converse, white Crocs – the focus is all on the shoes they want to wear.  Full skirted dresses make it easy to prioritise comfort because the gown does all the talking, hiding whatever’s on your feet for the sake of the pics.  If the shoes are hidden, why suffer through the pain when comfy flats or trainers will do the trick?  

Footwear visibility drives choices  

Some dresses of course show off a little more.  Higher hemlines or leg slits mean the shoes have to earn their moment.  Our brides are leaning toward sparkly sandals, chunky heels or stylish flats that look and – crucially – feel good.  If the shoe is visible, it has to balance comfort with a touch of wow factor and luckily there are so many options now that fit both briefs.   

From glamour to grit 

Alternative brides are really embracing this trend, pairing ‘unconventional’ footwear with outfits that are just as bold.  Black wedding gowns with black Doc Martens make a real statement, delicate lace dresses with pale pink Converse combine softness with comfort – these choices are all about showing off personality and confidence.  Comfort doesn’t mean compromising style; it means merging glamour with grit.  

The prom parallel 

It’s not just weddings.  Prom night is showing the same shift: photo ready heels may look amazing but after an hour, so many gorgeous prom goers are barefoot or switching to flats to make it through the rest of the night.  Heels rarely make it to midnight and the same is true for bridal shoes – comfort wins every single time.  Why carry an extra pair with you when you can choose ease from the very beginning?  

Comfort isn’t location specific 

It can feel a little intimidating to go against centuries of tradition and choose comfort over style, but we’ve got you covered, whatever type of do you’re going for.  

Outside weddings 

If the majority of your wedding is outside, comfort is a non-negotiable. You could go for supportive (but still glam) wedges, some sparkly flats or pair of trainers to keep you running around the great outdoors all day long. Those Crocs would work well here too.  

Destination do’s  

Getting married on a far flung beach? You’ve got it made.  A pair of glittery flip flops, espadrilles or beach sandals are perfect for you, and they won’t have to last long - toes wiggling into the warm sand is the best bit of a beach wedding… almost.  

 

All about the dancing 

If you’re planning the party of a lifetime with dancing til dawn, you’re going to want to stay on your feet til that very last song.  Wedding trainers or a pair of comfy ballet flats will make sure you out-boogie your guests.  

 

Cool and quirky 

This trend was made for a quirky, alternative wedding.  If your vibe is cool, relaxed and a little bit out there, you can really make your footwear part of the theme.  This is where those DMs and Converses come into their own.  Not ready to go fully flat? A low block heel in a bold contrast colour will keep all eyes on your feet.  

 

Rustic weddings 

A good pair of cowboy boots will fit right in.  Enough said.  

 

Keeping it traditional 

Even if you’re planning a totally traditional big day, your feet don’t have to suffer.  Try kitten heels, a pair of pointed flats or low bridal sandals instead of a sky-high stiletto.  

 

Perfect prom shoes 

The same principles apply if you’re looking for prom shoes. You’re going to be on your feet for a long time, those toes need to be properly looked after.  The great thing is that anything goes! Trainers, boots, flats and anything in between.  Choose comfort and personality first.  

And in practice?  

For Brides: Start by thinking about how visible your shoes will be, your venue, the style or your dress and how long you’ll be wearing the.  Comfort should be a priority, not an afterthought.  

For Stylists: Go armed with a variety of options from glittering flats to chunky heels to quirky Crocs to make sure every personality is covered.  

For Photographers: We want all of our brides to choose comfort but just in case, capture those shoe-focused shots early in the day, before anyone switches to something kinder on the feet.   

Shoes don’t have to hurt to look amazing.  Happy feet make happy brides and we’re so chuffed that modern bridal (and prom) fashion is catching up with that.   

Ready to choose comfy?  Us to.  Get in touch with the Lily’s team and let’s make your feet happy.