Can You Wear White Shoes To A Wedding?

To be invited to a wedding is a privilege not everyone has. Many people view weddings not only as a chance to celebrate their love for one another but also as a chance to showcase their best qualities to the world. However, there are many rules of etiquette to remember; “Can you wear white shoes to a wedding?” is one of the most frequently asked questions when putting together an outfit.

Guests are usually asked not to wear white so that all eyes are on the bride during the ceremony. There are exceptions to this rule, however, and white accessories and accents like jewelry and shoes are fine to wear. So, yes, white shoes are acceptable for a wedding.

Following some outfits, suggestions are five rules for wearing white shoes to a wedding you’ve been invited to. Finally, some considerations for donning a pair of white soles to a wedding are listed.

Can You Wear White Shoes To A Wedding?

1. You Should Never Wear All White

All-white ensembles are discouraged, as mentioned above. Wedding traditions have evolved, but white wedding dresses remain a popular and beloved choice. Since an all-white outfit makes the wearer look like the bride, it could potentially steal some of the spotlights from the happy couple.

The next time you want to wear your favorite pair of white shoes, but your outfit doesn’t go with them, try switching up your color scheme. White accessories are versatile because they go with any color, and white shoes provide a wide range of options for matching outfits.

2. You Shouldn’t Wear White Shoes To An Outdoor Wedding

Wearing white shoes at an outdoor wedding is not recommended due to safety concerns. This includes nuptials that take place in a national park, on a hiking trail, or anywhere else in nature. Wear comfortable shoes that can withstand long hours of walking. For the same reason, you might want to wear shoes that you don’t mind getting soiled.

3. You Shouldn’t Wear White Shoes In The Winter

In particular, white shoes are not a good choice for the cooler months of fall and winter. Your shoe’s structural integrity and visual appeal could be compromised by sludge, mud, and snow.

4. Check The Dress Requirements

Timelines, locations, themes, degrees of formality, and other factors vary from wedding to wedding. Couples often set a dress code for their wedding guests based on the considerations mentioned above. This information can be found on the wedding website, social media posts, and invitations.

It is common for dress codes to state that attendees should wear something “formal,” “smart casual,” or “casual,” but some are more specific. For instance, an “all-white” dress code may be in place for certain receptions and ceremonies, requiring guests to wear nothing but white.

In the event of a conflict between the pair’s preferred dress code and the other rules discussed, the couple’s dress code preference shall govern.

5. Take Into Account The Couple’s Cultural History

White has symbolic solid meanings in many Western cultures, including weddings, peace, and purity. Wedding dresses of any color are acceptable, but in these cultures, the brides almost universally choose white because of its many symbolic meanings.

White, however, has a different connotation in several Eastern cultures. White is a sign of death and mourning in China, Korea, and other countries. The color white is traditionally associated with funerals and other sad occasions.

The couple needs to be culturally aware if they come from different backgrounds. Some brides choose not to wear white because of this reason. You are not expected to follow their lead and wear all white as a guest.

Outfit Inspiration & Styling Tips

Although some people may encourage you to go ahead and wear white shoes to a wedding, others may advise you to reconsider. Here are some suggestions for what to wear with a pair of white shoes to a wedding:

1. A Jumpsuit In Pastels

Jumpsuits are frequently chosen as wedding guest attire because they are stylish, sophisticated, and simple to accessorize. Jumpsuits that reach the floor, like the one shown above, allow the wearer to get away with almost any footwear choice, including a pair of white shoes. You can put your spin on this look by changing up your hair or adding accessories.

2. A Brown, High-Waisted, Flounce-Sleeved, Overall Dress

This high-waisted brown overall dress with ruffle details is ideal for autumn weddings. The white flounce sleeves and heels are a chic finishing touch to the ensemble. At the same time, you have a wide range of options for customization. When it comes to accessorizing, the square neckline is ideal. Hats are also a great addition to this ensemble.

3. A Maxi-Skirted Pencil Dress

This blush Maxi-skirted pencil dress is the ideal mix of stunning and understated, making it ideal for a wedding with a summer or springtime theme or color scheme. The dress is the show stopper, but the white block heel sandals are a great complement that won’t steal the show. It has a V-neck so you can be daring with your jewelry choices.

4. A-Line, Midi, Tulle Dress With Off-The-Shoulder Neckline

Dress up for the wedding in a blue midi length with off-the-shoulder sleeves and tulle details. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and whatever you like to accessorize are all fair game. A pair of white high heels will work just as well as the beige ones are shown.

5. The Lilac Lace Dress With The Studded Heels

If you want to look extra feminine, this lilac dress with lace details is perfect for you. The length is ideal for risk-free late-night dancing. The studded leather pumps add a touch of edge to the ensemble. The studs make the shoes look white and shiny, even though the shoes themselves are not white. It’s a slick way to get around the no-white rule at some ceremonies.

Essential Considerations for Your Wedding Shoes

Verify The Dress Code Of The Bridesmaids

You need not worry about figuring out the exact make and model of the bridesmaids’ footwear. However, you can get a general idea by asking them about the shoe’s color and style. Insight into your potential choices is provided here.

It is inappropriate to choose footwear or an outfit that looks too much like that worn by the bride’s attendants. All of the ladies in the bridal party are included in this.

Avoid Bright Colors And Instead, Use Earth Or Neutral Tones

Shoes or an entire outfit in earth tones are a great way to express your individuality while still complying with the “no white” dress code at certain weddings. Shoes in beige, cream, powder, and other neutral or earthy colors are plentiful. Luckily, they are simple to match because they work well with any shade.

Comfort Or Style? Rather Look Good Than Feel Good?

There is still no agreement on this point. The argument can be made that, since weddings are not something you regularly partake in, you should make an effort to look your best rather than worry about being too comfortable. However, some will tell you to stick with what you know and what makes you feel good, whether that’s a pair of flats or a pair of heels.

It depends on the individual. If you care more about how you look than how comfortable you are, go ahead and sacrifice comfort for style. On the other hand, you’re perfectly within your rights to put convenience and safety ahead of everything else. However, take care to adhere to the established dress standards.

You can probably find something that satisfies your desire for both form and function if you look hard enough. You should shop around until you find a solution that suits you.

The Best Way To Deal With Second Thoughts

There’s a good chance you already have a pair of white shoes to wear to a wedding. After reading a few articles on the topic, you may begin to question whether or not the option you’ve settled on is a too bridal party–esque.

If you know the bride well, you should consult her on the matter at hand. If you can’t ask the bride, ask a member of the wedding party. If they are okay with it, you can rest assured in your decision. If not, you should probably send them back and get a different pair.

Alternatively, Consider These Points When Selecting A Pair Of Shoes:

• Are these shoes so striking that they might steal the show from the bride’s ensemble?
• Do these shoes hurt my feet?
• Would I feel safe going about my day in these shoes?
• Could you please tell me if these shoes are appropriate for the event?
• Will these shoes work for the event?
• What do I think of my footwear?
• Have you noticed that I’ve been wearing these shoes?

Final Thoughts

Remember that the bride and groom are the stars of the show at your wedding. It’s their big day, so they get to call the shots on everything. You can wear your favorite pair of white shoes if that’s fine with them. If not, give yourself a good amount of time to find a solution.