For long-wearing comfort, aim for styles with a slight platform to keep your arch straighter in the shoe. Block heels are also usually more comfortable, as the heel covers more surface area and provides better stability. “Look for pumps with a platform under the ball of the foot,” suggests Dr. Nelya Lobkova, certified surgical podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City. “If you plan on buying a heel that’s above three inches, I would recommend going with a chunky heel.”
For brides who would rather wear flat shoes or are planning an outdoor or beach wedding, there are plenty of options, from slip-on ballet styles to slingback dress pumps that fulfill both style and comfort requirements. For high-heel lovers, look for premium materials like supple leather and soft satin, extra cushioning, and a spacious toe box.
There’s no need to sacrifice comfort for style, as our top choices are beautiful and sure to keep you content on your feet and free from aches and pains. Whether you’re after platform heels with all the embellishments, a classic satin pump, or an understated ballet flat, we’ve rounded up the 25 best options for the rehearsal dinner, wedding, and reception.
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Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Courtesy of Sophia Webster
Pearly Whites
Dolce Vita Kanika Pearl Mid Heels
Dolce Vita’s Kanika heels are finally back in stock, so don’t hesitate to jump on these. The timeless style makes them a must-have for any incoming events or occasions.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Vanilla Pearl
Material: Textile, synthetic, leather alternative
Heel height: 2.3 inches
Customer review: “GORGEOUS! Purchased for a bridal shower, very comfortable and classy! I have a wider foot and sometimes stray away from pointed toe shoes, but these fit just right!”
These Manolo Blahnik Hangisi flats feature the brand’s classic show-stopping crystal-embellished buckle, making these shoes a stand-out choice that’ll add all the sparkle you need.
Sizes: 6-12
Colors: White
Material: Leather
Heel height: 0.5 inches
Customer review: “Loved the style of these flats! They are so pretty to wear! A beautiful shoe from every angle. I really love looking at the beautiful crystal brooch on the shoe.”
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Ritz and Glitz
Sophia Webster Coco Glitter Crystal-Heel Pumps
If you’re looking for sparkle on your big day, turn to Sophia Webster’s glittering heels. This pair is perfect for dancing the night away, thanks to a crystal little kitten heel.
This elegant pointed-toe slingback pump has a delicate buckle-fastening adjustable ankle strap, low kitten heel, and supple leather lining, making them the perfect option for a comfortable and chic bride.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: White
Material: 100% leather (Calf)
Heel height: 2 inches
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A Dainty Sandal
Nina Gaby Slide Sandal
These low-heel sandals with delicate bows are set on a cushioned footbed and wrapped block heel, making them a top choice for comfort. These would be ideal for a beach or spring/summer wedding, and you can keep them in your closet to wear after your big day!
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: White
Material: Synthetic lining, leather sole
Heel height: 1.5 inches
Pearls and Lace
Jimmy Choo Sacora 85
If you’re seeking a romantic ivory option, consider this Jimmy Choo sandal with a pearl adorning the V-cut peep toe. The ankle strap offers plenty of heel support, making this the perfect heel to say “I do!”
Sizes: 4-13
Colors: Ivory
Material: Lace, leather
Heel height: 3.3 inches
Customer review: “Beautiful shoes. Well made and so pretty. Comfortable and easy to wear.”
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A Satin Slipper
Loeffler Randall Leonie Cream Ballet Flat
“Go flat! Pick a fun color or a patent black to elevate elegance,” says Lobkova. In other words, this is your sign to take advantage of the ballet flat renaissance.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: 7 options
Material: Viscose, silk, bovine leather
Customer review: “They are wearable, walkable, and so chic…they fit exactly like ballet shoes from when I was a kid—super comfortable and no blisters.”
Trendsetting Sparkle
Alexandre Birman Isla Crystal Bridal 85
For something both timeless and trendsetting, go for the Isla Crystal Bridal 85 heel. The artfully curved stiletto heel gives the shoe a modern twist, and the crystal ornament set over moiré fabric makes this the perfect shoe for fashion-forward brides.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Off-White
Material: Leather, moiré, metal
Heel height: 3.4 inches
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Marriage Material
Larroudé Ines Pump
An editor-approved style, these slingback heels from Larroudé are equipped with memory foam cushioning and an adjustable ankle strap. A sensible and stylish option even after “I do.”
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 10 options
Material: Leather
Heel height: 2.5 inches
Customer review: “I got these in two colors and tbh I want them in all the colors. The front is def slightly wider than the luxury fashion houses and the memory foam makes walking a whole lot more comfortable…highly recommend!”
Something Blue
Badgley Mischka Kamilah Pumps, Azure Blue
Just in case you’re still on the hunt for something blue, consider this satin blue Badgley Mischka pump with an eye-catching beaded detail. These Old Hollywood-esque pumps have a leather lining and adjustable strap, maximizing comfort and allowing you to dance with ease all night long!
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Azure Blue, Soft White, Black
Material: Satin, leather
Heel height: 3.15 inches
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A Delicate Kitten Heel
Reformation Stacy Heeled Sandal
The Stacy Heeled Sandal from Reformation is a charming kitten heel that has a flattering almond toe and a bow detail on the upper. These versatile sandals aren’t just for your big day—they can also become a staple in your shoe closet.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: White Patent, Powder Pink Croc, Espresso Suede
Material: Bovine leather, patent finish
Heel height: 2 inches
Day-to-Night Drama
Alexandre Birman Clarita Platform Bridal 120
For the bride seeking heels with some drama, look no further! These Alexandre Birman heels feature a charming bow and some ankle-strap bling. Though they look sky-high, the platform provides stability and makes them comfortable for day-to-night wear.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: White
Material: Satin seta royal
Heel height: 4.7 inches
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Romantic Lace
Stuart Weitzman Stuart Felicity 85 Pumps
These pumps feature a sharp pointed-toe, garden lace, and leather trim, with a feminine bow detail at the vamp. For brides who want an elegant lift and wearable comfort, these are ideal for a vintage-inspired or lace-adorned wedding dress.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: White, Black
Material: Lace, lacquered Nappa leather
Heel height: 3.25 inches
Customer review: “This is the most comfortable heel in my closet. Felicity is well-cushioned with a perfectly finished leather lining. The heel is “balanced” and encourages “best posture”; it is comfortable to stand, walk, dance, and “work a room” while hosting an event…”
These classically elegant slingback pumps have a graceful, pointed silhouette adorned by a crystal-embellished decal resembling a swirling sun. The soft arch strap and low heel make these shoes comfortable for long periods of standing and dancing!
Sizes: 6-12
Colors: White
Material: Calf leather, rubber sole
Heel height: 2.36 inches
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The Timeless Classic
Sarah Flint Perfect Pump 85
Follow the advice of Alexa Chung, and stick to the classics. Timelessly elegant, you’d never know that this Sarah Flint pump houses a wide-fitting toe box, contoured arch support, a secure steel stiletto, and 6mm of extra padding. Plus, if leather’s not your thing, these lifesaving heels are also available in white satin.
Sizes: 4-13
Colors: 24 options
Material: Calf leather
Heel height: 3.3 inches
Customer review: “These pumps live up to their name: perfect. I had stopped wearing high heels after spraining my ankle a decade or so ago. I couldn’t bear the idea of wearing flats to my daughter’s, wedding so I bought the Sarah Flint 85s thinking I would switch to flats after the ceremony and photos. To my surprise, I ended up wearing them all night and even for the car ride home. I have never worn a more comfortable pair of heels…comfortable right out of the box.”
A Touch of Pink
Reformation Noreen Slingback Pump
The pale pink heel and tiny bow accents add a touch of pastel and femininity to these Reformation pumps.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Almond, Black, Scarlet, Navy, Gold/Silver
Material: Bovine leather
Heel height: 3 inches
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Gold-Toned
Gucci Horsebit Sandal
These block heel sandals were a hit amongst reviewers, even apart from all the Gucci loyalists. Perfect for a bridal shower or elegant bachelorette, the gold horsebit adds just the right touch of shine.
Sizes: 4-12
Colors: White, Black
Material: Leather
Heel height: 3 inches
Customer review: “I am searching for comfy shoes to wear for my wedding so I chose these sandals…usually designer shoes run narrow on me and I can’t stand having a tight strap across the instep, but these fit across my instep nicely with a little bit of leeway.”
Arch Support System
Sarah Flint Wedding Perfect Block Sandal
Nobody does worry-free wedding shoes quite like Sarah Flint. These lacey block heels check all the boxes for top-tier comfort: a stable block heel, anatomical arch support, extra footbed padding, and an expanded toe-box.
Sizes: 4-13
Colors: White, Black, Gold, Sand
Material: Satin, leather
Heel height: 2.3 inches
Customer review: “I love these shoes! I have finicky feet but went to a 6 hour event including dancing and loved these sandals!”
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Pearls, Pearls, and More Pearls
Betsey Johnson Sidny Ivory
If you plan to switch to sneakers before the dancing starts, these pearl-studded sneakers by Betsey Johnson are an impeccable choice! The platform offers a slight lift to give you some height while still maximizing comfort.
Customer review: “These shoes are enjoyable, beautiful, and super comfortable. And I love that they can be found in wide widths. It’s hard to find good shoes that are wide, and here are some amazing ones!”
A Satin Sandal
Margaux City Sandal
A tried-and-true sandal gets a bridal makeover in wedding-worthy satin and a crystal buckle.
Sizes: 4-12.5
Colors: 14 options
Material: Satin, leather
Heel height: 2.5 inches
Customer review: “Lovely sandal. It is perfect for my son’s wedding. At first I thought the heel strap was too big, but then I realized the straps slide and got the perfect fit. Can’t wait to wear them”