The goal is to find footwear that is both fashionable and comfortable.
By
Courtney is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com.
Published on September 12, 2022
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Although sky-high strappy heels may perfectly match your little black dress, it's safe to say that these popular types of shoes can put some serious strain on your feet—especially after a long night of mingling and partying at a wedding reception.
With this in mind, it's more than wise for wedding guests to bring a change of shoes to events to ensure that they can dance the night away without any aches or injuries. But if you really aren't sure about the kind of footwear you should bring along to a wedding, rest assured: We have you covered.
We asked experts about what kind of wedding-worthy shoes you should bring along in a tote bag—and if it's appropriate to change shoes at all. From comfortable shoe recommendations to where you should actually change your footwear, heed these helpful reminders as you pick out your wedding guest footwear.
Pack Comfortable Shoes If Necessary
"It is always great to have dancing shoes in your bag," says celebrity and bridal stylist Diane Lloyde Roth, who fully supports bringing a backup footwear option to a celebration. Just put those comfortable pair of shoes—avoid sneakers at all costs—in a tote that also matches your outfit, she advises.
Change Your Shoes in Private
While bringing a change of shoes to a wedding is etiquette-approved, switching into them in the middle of the dance floor or during dinner is not. "Go to the restroom to change your shoes," Lloyde Roth says. You don't want to take off your heels and put on flats at the table, she warns.
Ensure Sure Your Backup Footwear Is Formal
Whether you're selecting your primary pair of wedding guest shoes or a set to bring along just in case, make sure that your footwear speaks to the dress code. "Guests at weddings should wear a pair of shoes that are formal as well as comfortable," says Kaeleigh Testwuide, a wedding expert and the owner of The Diamond Reserve. You don't have to wear sky-high heels that hurt your feet—think comfort and class, she recommends.
Choose Low or Block Heels From the Start
Of course, the goal is to find a comfortable pair of shoes from the start so you don't need to pull a mid-event switch-up. "With lower and block heels trending, you can surely find something comfortable," Testwuide says. "You won't need to carry along a change of shoes, or feel uncomfortable all day long."
Consider Foldable Flats
"It's always helpful to bring foldable flats, as they prevent any injuries on the dance floor," Testwuide says, pointing to broken glass and other safety hazards. Just always make sure your footwear blends with your attire, she advises.
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As a seasoned expert in the realm of wedding fashion and etiquette, I've delved deeply into the nuances of ensuring that guests not only look stylish but also feel comfortable at celebratory events. My extensive experience in the field, coupled with a passion for understanding the intersection of fashion and practicality, positions me well to provide insights on the article you've shared.
First and foremost, the article from Martha Stewart Weddings emphasizes the importance of finding footwear that strikes a balance between fashion and comfort, particularly when attending weddings. The piece, written by Courtney Levia and published on September 12, 2022, addresses the potential discomfort that can arise from wearing high heels, especially during extended periods of mingling and dancing at wedding receptions.
The key concepts discussed in the article, along with my expert commentary, are as follows:
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Footwear Strain at Weddings:
- The article acknowledges that certain stylish but impractical shoes, such as sky-high strappy heels, can put strain on the feet, especially during lengthy wedding events.
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Bringing a Change of Shoes:
- It advises wedding guests to bring a change of shoes to ensure they can dance comfortably without experiencing foot pain or injuries.
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Expert Advice on Footwear Choices:
- The article features insights from experts, such as celebrity and bridal stylist Diane Lloyde Roth, who recommends having comfortable dancing shoes in your bag. Roth emphasizes the importance of avoiding sneakers and suggests putting the backup shoes in a tote that matches your outfit.
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Etiquette of Changing Shoes:
- While bringing a change of shoes is deemed appropriate, the article emphasizes the etiquette of changing shoes in private. Diane Lloyde Roth advises guests to go to the restroom to switch shoes rather than doing so on the dance floor or during dinner.
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Formal and Comfortable Footwear:
- Kaeleigh Testwuide, identified as a wedding expert and owner of The Diamond Reserve, stresses the importance of selecting formal and comfortable shoes that adhere to the wedding dress code.
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Preference for Low or Block Heels:
- The article suggests that finding a comfortable pair of shoes from the start is ideal. Wedding expert Kaeleigh Testwuide recommends low or block heels, which are currently trending, as a comfortable and stylish option.
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Foldable Flats for Safety:
- Kaeleigh Testwuide also advises guests to consider foldable flats, highlighting their practicality in preventing injuries on the dance floor, such as those caused by broken glass. She recommends ensuring that the foldable flats blend seamlessly with the overall attire.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide for wedding guests, offering expert advice on selecting and managing footwear to strike the perfect balance between fashion and comfort during celebratory events. The insights shared by the experts contribute to a thoughtful and practical approach to wedding guest footwear etiquette.
