How I Found the Perfect Wedding Shoes Before Saying “I Do”

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The countdown to my summer 2024 wedding is on–114 days away to be exact, not that I’m counting. With the “big” things sorted–venue, band, photographer, florals–now comes the fun part: the fashion. Whether you’re a bride, plan to be one, or are surrounded by a few, then you know the importance of securing the dress. Have you had a dream dress in mind since you were a child, inspired by your favorite Disney princess? Are you repurposing your mom’s vintage gown from the ’80s with its puffed sleeves and delicate lace? Or did you simply try one on in a store and instantly fall in love? No matter how you got there, nothing beats the feeling of slipping into a wedding dress and knowing it’s the one.

My Wedding Shoe Wish List:

• The Shimmering Slingback: Manolo Blahnik Hangsi satin crystal-buckle halter pumps, $1,195
• The Sleek Satin Sandal: Loeffler Randall Jackie satin sandals, $295
• The Kitten Heel: The Row silk kitten-heel slide sandals, $920
• The Bare Sandal: Aeyde Mikita leather sandals, $425
• The Block Heel: Staud Solange block-heel sandals, $350
• The Pearl Pick: Jimmy Choo Sacaria pearly-stud platform sandals, $2,050
• The Crystal Choice: Miu Miu satin slingback pumps, $1,550
• The Ballet Flat: Magda Butrym leather-trimmed embroidered mesh ballet flats, $1,055

While I won’t give you details just yet about the dress I chose (my husband-to-be could be reading this), I can tell you one thing: it lends itself perfectly to a dazzling, statement wedding shoe. I, of course, had a few in top contenders in mind—but didn’t want to play favorites. I wanted to cast a wide net to make sure I wasn’t missing out on anything fabulous, trying on everything from glittering, pointed-toe pumps from Jimmy Choo to sleek, strappy heeled sandals from The Row. Come along with me on my journey, below.

The most dreamy wedding flats.

My pile of shoes in the dressing room.

Like many fashion brides-to-be, I started out my search at Bergdorf Goodman. As I made my way up to its glossy, manicured shoe floor, I had an open mind and a more-the-merrier attitude when starting my selection. To no bride’s surprise, I instantly gravitated towards Manolo Blahnik, opting to try on its signature Hangsi style in both heeled slingback and ballet flat forms. As much as I love high heels, there’s something especially elegant, and not to mention comfortable, about stepping into a ballet flat on your big day.

Pointed-toe pump perfection.

After starting strong with the classics, like the aforementioned Manolo and a pointed-toe Jimmy Choo pump, I set my sight on a few more dramatic pairs. Something with serious sparkle, if you will. Enter: Miu Miu’s crystal-adorned slingbacks and a pair of 3-D floral pumps from Valentino. While statement-making, I came to the conclusion that they work better as after-party options rather than my actual wedding shoes. I’m not looking to completely overpower my dress, after all.

I’d be remiss not to talk about a pair of two-toned Chanel slingbacks that instantly stole my heart; I like to consider myself a Chanel slingback connoisseur—my collection includes both the classic beige and black cap-toe pair, and a burgundy beauty that I actually wore the night I got engaged! I didn’t end up getting these out of fear the black cap-toe would be too stark against my off-white dress, but that’s not to say I won’t be back for them on a later date. I’m not opposed to a little daytime sparkle.

Chanel slingbacks sitting pretty in their box.

Bows and sparkles. Need I say more?

I tried on other styles that I’d been eyeing online, like those from Loeffler Randall, Amina Muaddi, Mach & Mach, and Roger Vivier, but while beautiful in their own way, ultimately, there was one pair that gave me butterflies. You could probably guess it, yes, it was the Manolo Blahnik Hanigsi slingbacks. Crafted from glossy white satin and featuring the brand’s signature crystal-embellished buckle, they’re a shoe that perfectly suit my dress and overall wedding vibe. Not to mention they have the ideal 2-inch, kitten-heel height, which makes dancing all night long a piece of (wedding) cake. I also love the styling mileage they provide as I plan to wear them not only on my big day, but beyond.