Best-dressed bridesmaids
I’m so excited to be getting married on March 15, 2009–only a few months away!
I’ve been working like crazy to plan, organize and pull the event together, but one detail that seems to be difficult to wrap up is what shoes the bridesmaids will wear with their dress. I have five of my best friends and family serving as bridesmaids, and I’m so excited to see them in their vintage-inspired dresses with retro headbands/hair pieces.
But what shoes should they wear?
Here’s the bridesmaid dress:
It’s from David’s Bridal, and is fairly affordable, which is good since several of my bridesmaids are still in college. I love the retro styling. If you are interested in this bridesmaid dress, order it soon! According to a salesperson at my local David’s Bridal store, they are discontinuing this dress momentarily because it was a “trend piece,” the likes of which they bring in seasonally.
The bridesmaids are going to wear a navy ribbon around their waist, tied into a bow in the back.
I’m not going to go all bridezilla and tell them how to do their hair, but I do want vintage headbands and hair pieces (jeweled, perhaps) to give more of a retro flair.
Here are some shoes I’ve considered thus far:
Which ones do you like? Do you have any suggestions?
I’m looking for retro-inspired cream heels, but I’m open to gray, bone or off-white colored shoes as well. It’s March, so closed-toe or peep-toe is preferable.
Thanks for the help!
Comments (63)
63 Comments
I like the top row, far right, silvery colour. From what you’re saying of your plans, they seem to contrast nicely.
Oooh… I kinda like the idea of the cute little jeweled ballet flats in a metallic silver along with cute retro jeweled headbands…very Audrey Hepburn, which is who the dress reminds me of.
However in reality I am sure heels are maybe more appropriate for the occasion. The Mary-Jane is quirky but maybe more practical without the without the platform?? Although the platform would add some ‘kapow’ to the volumnous skirt on the dress???
Whatever the case, Congratulations and I hope your day is magical! (*_*)
i love the flats, third on the second row.
but i don’t know if high-heels would be better…
here are some ideas.
http://cgi.ebay.com/CREAM-Formal-Sandals-Bridal-Wedding-Shoes-Women-Sz-7_W0QQitemZ110301366342QQihZ001QQcategoryZ63889QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem?refid=store#ebayphotohosting
http://www.zappos.com/images/735/7350415/8246-484885-d.jpg
I think the gray Viviana pumps will provide great contrast, along with the navy ribbon that will be tied around the waist. It’s sort of retro modern that way. The gray of the shoes will make the navy of the ribbon pop out more and that adds the oomph in the over-all outfit
Congratulations, btw! 
I think the Mary Janes are it. It’s retro but still up to date. Heels also make the legs look longer and slimer. Congratulations. I love the bridesmaid dress!
I definitely love #5!!!
The Mary Janes for sure! Check out Bluefly.com/wedding for more ideas.
wow, the dress is beautiful.
for the shoes, the mary janes, definitely. they are perfect.
and btw, i love the idea of tying the navy ribbon around the waist.
The Mary Janes. They will make the bridesmaids feel taller and slimmer. They also have the retro feel to them.
Greta dress!
Congratulations Jackie
I vote for Mary Janes too, but maybe some with a little lower heals to complement the retro look and to make it easier for your bridesmaids’ feet after a long day? If you can find some with a little bling-button for the strap that would be a nice repetition of the bling in their hair
Congrats!
I love the Mary Janes too…but I think that some that are made out of leather would work better for the bridesmaids. I’ve found that after a long day, man-made materials in my shoes have made my feet very uncomfortable. I also think that the shoes should have lower heels, so that they can go with the dress more nicely. I love the retro theme!
I would suggest the ballet slipper type shoes for comfort due to the fact that at the reception they’ll be dancing and walking all night. Or another suggestion is to have them get the heels for the ceremony and the flats for the reception.
I was just at a wedding and while the shoes look nice during the weddign most of the girls took them off for dancing as they were so uncomfortable! Just something to consider!
As a wedding coordinator, I say pick one color, preferably that matches the dress well, and let the girls pick their own shoes only requesting they are of similar height (it would look miss-matched if one had flats and another had 3-4 inch heals. Nobody looks at their shoes and it’s very acceptable for them to be different. That way your girls get a little flair of their own personal style and get to pick something they will be able to wear again and the look still coordinates. With that dress, flats are out in my opinion. On a personal note, I also like shoe #2, the jane with high heel. Congratulations on your wedding! Don’t forget pre-marital counseling…the wedding is a day, the marriage is a lifetime!
i like the style of first 3 in the top row, i think heels look cute. i know i personally dont look good in flats, i have long toes and they always fall off. however some of the heels you picked are 3+ inches. it would be best to pick a heel that is 2 inches or less. anything more is blishter city. Or you could have the bridesmaids pick their own shoes based on their own style, but tell them you want cream colored shoes either closed toe or peep toe.
What I would do is pick 2 or 3 that are similar and acceptable and let my bridesmaids choose which pair they like the best. That way everyone looks good, but they also feel like they have some input into what they’re wearing. On a personal level, the second one from the left, top row is my favorite. Good luck!
Personally, I like the ballet flats most, then the low-heel pumps. If you think they’re too drab, you can always add some blingy shoe clips. However, one thing to consider is how long your bridesmaids will be on their feet in the shoes you choose. So I’d have to agree with Diana D. that comfort is as important a factor as beauty (and price.)
I think the white slingback kitten heels. The pretty bridesmaid dress is a little short so you do not want to make thier legs look too akward but you do want hight and slim.
DEFINITELY THE Baby Doll” Retro White Patent Mary Jane Platform Pump” THOSE ARE CUTE! AND I THINK THEY ARE A NICE COMPLIMENT TO THE RETRO LOOK.
Well I really like the vintage shoes, but you want to think of comfort at the same time. No one wants a crabby brides maids, they can and will make the bride go nuts. I think a Navy blue shoe would be great. Then it gives you a color break. If they would get a Navy blue head band or hair piece, with the blue around the waist, then a blue shoes would top it off.
try these sites.> love these but a lil pricey.
http://www.heels.com/womens-shoes/harriet-wedge-navy.html?SID=cb2176b858baae02a4b9d90cd1e5a56f61eddfbe
or
these are ok, I’m not too sure if you would like them. But I’m sure you know what I mean with the Navy blue shoes.
http://www.heels.com/womens-shoes/enchanted-flat-navy.html
I vote for the peeptoes on the top with the bow. They just scream 50’s retro and are a shoe that they can wear again. I don’t care for the maryjanes because the high high heel looks a little too halloweenish. just my opinion:)
Speaking from personal experience, bridesmaids stand and run around and are on their feet A LOT on the wedding day. So for the sake of their feet, flats or a low no pressure heel is best.
I agree with Kristen, it’s a good idea to let them pick their own (maybe some would even be lucky enough to have something in their closet that would be perfect), that will also be within their budget. Don’t overlook Target for cute shoes also, that’s where a few of my girls got theirs (and I got mine also!) for our 10/2007 wedding. I also did DB dresses. Of the options you have though, I think the Bella Vita Lola pumps are cute, as are the flats with the bow (but those are awfully expensive).
I hate to go with the majority here, but I would pick the Mary Janes, 2nd to the left on the top row. Not only are they a great style, but they are more dressy than flats, and keep the theme going.
Congratulations! And, great pick on the dress!
first of all congrats on your marriage to be, my pick of shoes that would suite best for that dress are the fist pair on the second row.but in a differant color remember u dont want your girls took look to pail, choose a color that can be noticed.
but either way whichever shoe u choose meke sur they are comfortable, nothing worse than having your bridesmaids talk about you after the grand event is over. trust me.
I like the two on the far right. I would stay away from flats, because I think it might make your bridesmaids look like little girls. The ones on the bottom left are cute, too, but maybe in another color. What are your wedding colors? Since the dress is neutral, you could do almost any color shoe (light blue, pink, light green, etc….), whatever works w/ your wedding colors.
Congrats, and hope everything turns out well!
CONGRATULATIONS!
I am with GirlIllogical; I love the idea of jeweled ballet flats.
Of the choices you put up, I love the second pair from the left on the top row. I think it’s elegant and wearable after the day.
Perhaps the girls could have the option or switching into cute ballet flats for the reception, provided they match the theme & tone of the outfit?
definitely peeptoes on the top, cream color!!!!
Congrats !! great dress by the way.
The flats would look fantastic with the style you’ve acheived! Congrats!
I say go with the second shoe (Baby Doll” Retro White Patent Mary Jane Platform Pump) Its cute and to me is most connected with retro theme. Have fun at your big day!
the mary janes or the jcrews. both will look awesome.
I definitly think you should stick with high heels that are the same cremy color of the dress. But they need to look modern also. So i think that the best shoes to go with the dress would probably be the creme colored heels in the first picture. They are vintage but in a chic, contemporary way.
And CONGRATS on your wedding, I hope you have the best time of your life celebrating the beauty of love. <3
This is very exciting. Personally, I would choose the beige platform maryjane (2nd from left, top row) as it fits in perfectly with the gorgeous dress (love it!). My 2nd choice would be the bejeweled ballet flats.
hi jackie,
the high heel will look lovely since the dress is meduim and will give hight to the girls….i would also to choose a golden shoes it goes great with the colour of the dress and the more simple the better! if u want the girls to wear something on their hair then i suggest something with pearl (not real one ofcourse-:) and the shoe should be with pearl too something simple n nice u can pick the shoes and put some pearls on a flower on the side of the shoe u can buy this and stick it on the shoe .. believe me u can come with great ideas just set free your imagination “i’ve been their”! and congratulations i wish u really a very good luck ..enjoy that day!
I like the first ones on the bottom row left side. They are the perfect combiination of sweet and sexy with the peep toe and it’s formal enough for the event.
From what the appearance of the dress and the blue stash you would like around the brides maids waists.
The shoe that would add class, a touch of cuteness, and elegance. Would be the “baby doll” Mary Jane’s (second to the left). I think these would look the best especially if you would have jewels in the head bands(which i think would look very classy and be very retro without over doing it) so the shoes would balance out the entire outfit.
I absolutely love the dress with the ballet flats. The MaryJanes are a good second choice, but do consider the comfort of the bridesmaids who will no doubt be on their feet all day! They will thank you for the ballet flats too, and I think we are all pleasanter & look better in pictures when we are relaxed and comfortable. It would be so Audry-ish!
The one on the 2nd row left is perfect. You gave me some ideas since I’ll be a bridesmaid too. Thanks!
The mary janes (second from left, top row) would look good with the dress or something similar. Flats are out of question as it would make your bridesmaids look stumpy, the heels have to be at least 2 inches high to look good.
All the best for your wedding!
I love the heels on the top row, third across! They’d look great. Congrats on your wedding, and best wishes!
Shoe #3 would look beautiful with the bridesmaid dress.
I really loved the flats!!!! I think they would look really nice with that dress.
Good luck!!*
The Mary Janes are adorable, and the girls could wear them again!
the viviana pumps would really look awesome. definitely retro.
all the best for your wedding! God bless.
Hi Jackie,
have you considered a navy blue patent pump or peep toe. There are a lot of these options out there this winter. I think it would be beautiful with the gold dress and navy sash around the waist I assume this is your color scheme which is perfect for a wedding during march. Also practical as your girls could wear them after the wedding. Very chic , always in style and also comfortable. Absolutly love the bridesmaid dresses!
Good luck.
3 things I think about when looking for shoes as a bridesmaid: Will be comfortable all day, can I wear them again, are they pretty? In retrospect I’d go for the cream Belle Vita Lola dress pumps. They match dress perfectly.
I think you absolutely should keep it in the same colour as the dress!!!!
I like that ” sigerson morrison target roxanne jeweled pumps shoes ” it’s elegant and can make the bridesmaid’s legs look slim in the short dress (as there is no ankle belt). silver is neutral color which can goes with any color.. sould be nice with your navy blue ribbon.
Uh, congratulations first of all!
Hmm, i like the 3rd one from the left, top row. Reminds me of that girl holding a birthday cake in a Tommy Hilfiger ad (i think) and her dress/shoe (that looked like those above.. i think again) combination was pretty good. Anyhow, open-toed shoes just came to my mind.
the dress ois definately cute and i think you should go with heels …. i dont like the ones that you currently are considering … try the peep toe heels by Christian Louboutin
Armadillo Satin d’Orsay …………yoou could also consider them in silver that would be very retro and hot !
Definately the baby doll retro heels!! (top middle row)
Flats will make you look you are going to a 5 year olds dress up party…:-(
I think the second row, second shoe would be nice. The bridesmaids and bride need comfortable shoes, because they will be on their feet for awhile and these would be good for the bridesmaids.
I love the cream-colored sling backs to go with the dresses, but the ones on the second row, bottom left corner would be a good choice since you are looking for a retro-inspired piece.
I absolutely love the bella vita pumps and the flats! They look great with the dress! Also the flats look comfortable, which we all know is important for wedding shoes.
well congrats and good luck!
I would go with the third shoe in the top row… goes well with the dress and is a good compromise for everyone. Whether they prefer heels or flats this is a good choice.
As for your idea about tying a navy blue ribbon around the waist… I think this would be a definite no-no. It will cut the dress and take away from the whole look you’re going for. But hey, that’s just my opinion. Enjoy your special day!
congratulations. I like the 2nd from the left on the first row. it’s perfect and will be used for many years to come
i like the 3rd shoe on the top row….it looks great and suitable for the dress also has retro impression but not so old type…
don’t be stress and enjoy the special day.
I hope this will help you.
God Bless U
well first of all, i think u should pick the ones comfortably within your budget, decide together on the same colour for everyone, and on a matching, suitable height heel so that everyone is comfortable standing in them. Since the dresses are simple yet classy and stylish, and you seem to prefer that retro-inspired cream heel, i like the 2nd pair to the top on the right, and the pair directly beneath the 1st pair at the top. GOOD LUCK AND MAY YOUR WEDDING BE BEAUTIFUL ESPECIALLY AFTER ALL THE HARD WORK YOU’RE PUTTING INTO IT!
Top row, second from the right. Perfect for the period you’re looking to mirror. Pretty sure my grandmother used to wear shoes like that with the style of dress you’re putting your bridesmaids in.
i think #2 go best and look nicest the others all look very.. old? and since you say some of your brides maids are in college i think they would suit better.
i think a cute pair of navy blue pumps(to match the ribbon)would be really cute.i love the dresses by the way!!
i love the idea for your wedding
i think the secong and third shoes on the top row would go the best but the flats might be most comfortable for the bridesmaids. Also, have you considered getting navy shoes to match the ribbon? just a thought. I hope your wedding is wonderful!
CONGRATS, love the Mary Janes. My fave vintage site is http://www.modcloth.com they might have something for the maids or that something blue for you