19 pairs of wedding guest shoes that are equal parts comfy and chic
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Who doesn't love an excuse to get dressed up, putting on a summer wedding guest dress and finding the perfect pair of wedding guest shoes? Thing is, finding them isn't always the easiest.
Not only do you have to make sure the shoe's colour enhances your outfit for the big day, but also that they'll be the right heel height and, most importantly, comfy for you to make your way from the ceremony to the dance floor without fear of blisters. Feet-friendly pairs can be tricky to find, but I'm here to tell you that the best guest shoes needn't be heels.
That's right, I'm fully on board with wearing flat sandals or flat shoes in general to a wedding. It's better than kicking off a pair of stiletto heels and running around bare foot by the end the night, to then be scrambling around trying to find them before your taxi arrives. Comfort is key – whether you're a guest, bride, mother of the bride or bridesmaid, no one wants to be thinking about their feet hurting. But of course a kitten heel, block heel or platform heel (I'm loving Y2K wedge thong styles at the moment) can also be just as easy to wear – if you find the right pair, which is where I come in.
A good set of wedding guest shoes will bring just as much grandeur to your ensemble as the frock itself and, if you buy wisely, they'll become an accessory that'll last you a lifetime. Because no one should be buying footwear to wear once, it's all about choosing the styles you'll be styling after the big day, too. So, which pairs are actually wedding-appropriate?
What shoes are wedding appropriate?
The rule is, there are no rules. Long gone are the days where you ‘must’ wear this and you ‘can’t' wear that to a wedding. With that being said, though, you do have to consider a few factors that may help you choose your wedding guest outfit. For example, if it's a beach wedding, consider wedges or flat sandals to avoid sinking into the sand, but if it's more of a black tie affair then you'll be wanting something more dressy – think a pointed toe pump, a heeled sandal or slip on mules (you have to see the Mango polka dot pair).
If you're not used to walking in heels, it's a wise idea to opt for something around 5-8cm inch with a block heel instead of stiletto heels. Luckily, to help you find these, I've put the heel height of all my favourite pairs so you'll know exactly how much height you'll be adding to your outfit. And as a firm believer of flat shoes and sandals at a wedding (I wore a Zara pair to my cousin's wedding a couple of years back) I also want to show the the flat styles worth considering.
I will say that I personally don't think flip flops are wedding guest appropriate; they should have an element that makes them feel a bit for elevated, refined and ready to celebrate someone's big day – which flip flops do not. So look for glossy colours, chic details such as golden hardware or toe rings or a sleek silhouette that makes them feel that little bit fancier. And while ballet flats and loafers can definitely work for some guest outfits, I'll be focusing on the summer-ready sandals – here's my Zara strappy style, below, for example.
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Don't get me wrong, I'm also a huge fan of look-at-me heels for a wedding guest look, too. When it comes to pointed toe courts heels, though, I always make sure they have an adjustable strap or they're a backless mule to make sure they're comfier. I'm also a kitten heel girl, so you won't find me walking like Bambi in sky-high heels during a ceremony where I want to be walking around chatting to everyone and heading straight to the dance floor as soon as it's time. Your wedding guest shoes should be something you put thought into before the wedding, you shouldn't have to be worrying about how they feel during the big day.
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If your wedding guest dress is pared back in terms of colour and pattern, why not go all out on your footwear and splurge on a designer pair? Statement styles like these metallic Loewe + Paula's Ibiza metallic leather sandals or these zesty Alaïa satin wedge sandals are Cinderella worthy if you ask me. Want something more minimal? The high street has you covered with this River Island faux suede toe thong sandals or the chic and strappy H&M sandals that look like they could actually be designer. No matter your style, heel height preference or wedding guest outfit of choice, I believe you'll find a pair of shoes to go with from my edit.
For more from Glamour UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd, and for freelance fashion editor Harriet Davey, follow @harriet.davey.
Here is Glamour's edit of the best shoes for wedding guests to complete every look…
Stephanie Woven Ankle-Strap Kitten Heel Sandals
The fact remains, you can't beat a kitten heel for a wedding, or any occasion. Easy to walk in, just the right height to elevate your outfit (quite literally) and always chic, I love this pink Reiss pair. Woven shoes in general are everywhere this season, so I have no doubt you'll also end up wearing them with baggy jeans and mini dresses throughout summer.
- Colours: Pink
- Sizes: 3-8.
- Heel height: 5cm.
Save when you shop for wedding guest shoes with these Reiss discount codes at checkout.
Beaded Leather Kitten Heel Sandal
I'm imagining these at a wedding abroad with the Mediterranean sea as a backdrop, but they'll look equally as good at a ceremony at home. Beaded shoes are a mini trend this season and they just feel like the most perfect pair of summery sandals, don't they? Yes, yes and yes to the comfy kitten heel.
- Colours: Tan or green.
- Sizes: 2-8.
- Heel height: 4cm.
Save when you shop for wedding guest shoes with these Ralph Lauren discount codes at checkout.
Soulmate Beaded Slingback Kitten Heels
I've worn all types of shoes to weddings, and while I like the look of a pointed toe pump, sometimes they're not the most comfortable when you're tottering around all day. The answer to this issue? A mesh pair. The soft material won't nip your toes, will let your feet breathe and they're better suited to summer nuptials.
- Colours: Yellow or ivory.
- Sizes: 2-9.
- Heel height: 8.5cm.
If you prefer a higher heel height, this Boden pair is for you. The ankle and front strap is a classic shoe style, but the ruffles add that little something extra. In pastel pink suede, it's one of those heeled sandals you'll end up digging out for each and every upcoming occasion from now on.
- Colours: Pink.
- Sizes: 3-9.
- Heel height: 9.5cm.
Sore feet, be gone, because gone are the days where you have to wear heels to a wedding. Flat sandals are totally acceptable, but I do think they have to feel a bit fancy. You know, a striking colour, luxe metallic or details that make them more event-ready than off to the beach. I'm seeing this Zara style with a floaty maxi dress and a silly little beaded bag.
- Colours: Gold.
- Sizes: 2-9.
- Heel height: 1cm.
Weddings can be long days, and there're nothing worse than painful feet ruining the moment – enter: & Other Stories flat sandals. The knotted detail in glossy oxblood makes them look so premium, and I'm all for occasionwear being comfy. And you're guaranteed to wear these after the big day, too.
- Colours: Burgundy, brown or green.
- Sizes: 3-9.
- Heel height: 1cm.
Save when you shop for wedding guest shoes with these & Other Stories discount codes at checkout.
The T-bar has a bit of a bad rep as being a dated detail, that is, however, until the 2026 versions arrived. The T goes all the way down to the toe, extra straps are added and you get this very chic silhouette. The angled heel also makes these look a lot more expensive than they actually are – well done, H&M!
- Colours: Red, khaki or yellow.
- Sizes: 2-9.
- Heel height: 8.5cm.
Save when you shop for wedding guest shoes with these H&M discount codes at checkout.
Faux Suede Toe Thong Heeled Sandals
Sometimes you just want a fuss-free neutral pair of wedding guest heels to go with your outfit you've put months of thought into. But that needn't mean boring. Minimalist ‘90s thong heels are key for spring/summer 2026, and I’m seeing ones with back straps take centre stage. This faux suede style is an easy way to try out the mini trend, plus they'll go with quite literally any wedding guest outfit.
- Colours: Beige, black, brown, gold and yellow.
- Sizes: 4-8.
- Heel height: 4cm.
Save when you shop for wedding guest shoes with these River Island discount codes at checkout.
Beaded Strappy Stiletto Sandals
When it comes to summer weddings, I would say these are the perfect pair. Heeled, but not too high, in a classic colour but still fun with the beads, they do it all. They're the kind of wedding guest shoe that'll get people talking as soon as you walk in, so use them to liven up a more simple outfit.
- Colours: Burgundy.
- Sizes: 3-8.
- Heel height: 7cm.
Save when you shop for wedding guest shoes with these Marks & Spencer discount codes at checkout.
Alaïa Tong 75 Satin Wedge Sandals
If you're determined to get the best dressed guest award, you'll want to see these zingy Alaïa pair. Y2K wedge thong heels are back, and I'm so here for it. The block heel will make sure you don't get stuck in the grass on the way to the ceremony, the toe detail will keep them in place and the Chartreuse shade is one of spring/summer 2026's biggest colour trends. I would clash with a pastel pink or butter yellow dress.
- Colours: Lime green, orange or black.
- Sizes: 2-9.
- Heel height: 7.5cm.
Save when you shop for wedding guest shoes with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
KG Kurt Geiger Fleur Court Heels
If the wedding is black tie or destined to be a fancy affair, you'll need some guest shoes to fit he theme. These embellished pointed toe stiletto heels get my vote. Court shoes can slip off on the dance floor (trust me, I've had them fly off at a wedding) but the ankle strap on this pair will keep them firmly in place.
- Colours: Silver.
- Sizes: 3-8.
- Heel height: 10cm.
Whether it's safari leopard and zebra or petting zoo deer and cow, I'm obsessed with all things animal print right now – and they're the best alternative to classic florals or polka dots. We all know Topshop heels never fail, and this kitten heel ankle strap pair is the easiest way to add a touch to your guest look.
- Colours: Cow print or red.
- Sizes: 3-8.
- Heel height: 5cm.
Who's a fan of the jelly shoe revival? Taking us all back to our toddler days, the rubber styles are a mainstay in everyone's wardrobes once again. Instead of flip flop or caged pairs you'll be wearing on holiday, though, for a wedding, wear the Chloé runway version that kick-started the love for jellies all over again. A comfy kitten heel will always get a yes from me.
- Colours: Brown.
- Sizes: 3-8.
- Heel height: 2.5cm.
If you want a ‘wow’ shoe then look no further. JW Pei has created these two-tone metallic mules-of-dreams and I can't stop staring at them. The pointed toe will be comfier thanks to the open back, the heel height isn't extreme and I feel like they're giving 2026 Cinderella vibes.
- Colours: Silver, gold, black or pink.
- Sizes: 4-9.
- Heel height: 8cm.
Loewe + Paula's Ibiza Metallic Leather Sandals
Be still my beating heart. Loewe, you've outdone yourself with these metallic mules. Like white or black, gold or silver heels are guaranteed to work with quite literally any wedding guest outfit. The logo-adorned single stud detail at the front of these ruched stunners is all you need for everyone to know you're not playing when it comes to finding the best wedding guest shoes.
- Colours: Gold.
- Sizes: 2-8.
- Heel height: 8cm.
I'll always appreciate a mule, so of course I'm into this Mango mesh pair. If you're used to walking in high heels then these are for you, and they're also the perfect pair if the dress code is black tie. Simple yet sleek with the subtle polka dots, I would style them with a monochrome guest outfit.
- Colours: Black.
- Sizes: 2-9.
- Heel height: 8cm.
Save when you shop for wedding guest shoes with these Mango discount codes at checkout.
White Leather Strappy High Heels
Classic, elegant and comfy to walk in, these Nobody's Child heeled sandals do it all. No matter the dress code, this neutral go-with-everything style is one you won't regret buying. Whether it's countryside nuptials or a city ceremony, these wedding guest shoes will be your plus one.
- Colours: White or black.
- Sizes: 3-8.
- Heel height: 7.5cm.
Proenza Schouler put 3D floral heels on the runway this season, and luckily the high street has taken note. This Phase Eight style with its wearable heel height and comfy ankle strap is 360-degree perfection. I would go full English garden and wear with a floral Rixo dress, but they'll be the star of the show with pretty much any style. Who could ignore these?
- Colours: Pink or black.
- Sizes: 3-8.
- Heel height: 7cm.
Aeyde Roose Leather Thong Sandals
When it comes to wedding guest shoes, basically any platform heels are going to be your best friend. Taking the stress out of stiletto heels getting stuck in the ground or caught on your long dress, this Aeyde wedge style is one that'll take you from the ceremony to the dance floor. And yes, they also come in black.
- Colours: Burgundy or black.
- Sizes: 2-9.
- Heel height: 6cm.
Why you can trust me
Together, we have decades of experience working in the fashion industry, so we know all the best fashion brands and key seasonal trends to look out for. We've also been to many weddings over the years – at home and abroad – so when it comes to finding the best wedding guest shoes, we know the styles that'll suit all types of ceremonies. Whether it's block heel sandals or flat shoes for an outdoor wedding, comfy platform sandals or kitten heels for countryside nuptials or stiletto heels for a black tie event, we've found them all. And the best part is, we've also taken into consideration the styles that you'll get the most wear out of beyond the big day, so when wedding season is over, you'll still be able to wear your new favourite pair of shoes with jumpsuits, dresses and even your trusty jeans you wear on heavy rotation. Plus, we've also tried lots of the styles we've featured so they come with guaranteed-comfort – something that's super important when it comes to navigating busy wedding day plans.
How we tested
So, a little bit more about how we tested the best wedding guest shoes. At Glamour HQ, we had a chat about the shoes we've regretting wearing to weddings, and the ones we felt not only made our wedding guest dresses look 1000% better, but they also didn't squish our toes by the end of the day. Like shoes for any occasion, comfort should be at the top of the priority list – along with colour, heel height and fit – of course. So with this in mind, we made this very refined edit of guest shoes from the brands that we know always win when it comes to the best shoes in general.
