You’ve got your outfit for an upcoming wedding but you’re not sure what shoes to wear.
Can you wear white shoes to a wedding?
Yes, you can wear white shoes to a wedding. You can wear white sandals, flats, pumps, heels, and boots. Most brides and grooms approve of white accessories. However, always check the wedding dress code. Avoid wearing white shoes when a wedding is outdoors or the weather is rainy, snowy, or messy.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about wearing white shoes to a wedding.
Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding? (The 7 Rules)
You need to know seven rules about wearing white shoes to a wedding.
Let’s go over each rule so that you can decide, once and for all, if you should wear white shoes to the celebration of love.
Rule #1: You Can Wear White Accessories
It’s okay to wear white shoes to a wedding because most brides and grooms don’t care if you dress with white, cream, or ivory accessories.
You can confidently wear white shoes, a white purse, or white jewelry.
And if you’re really worried about upstaging the bride, steer clear of anything too flashy or glittery.
Rule #2: Don’t Wear All-White With Your White Shoes
There are a lot of wedding traditions that have been around for centuries, and many of them are still followed today.
One of the most well-known traditions is the “no white” rule, which states that you shouldn’t wear any white clothing to a wedding.
This tradition is usually interpreted as meaning that you shouldn’t wear a white dress or suit.
Doing so is generally considered to be in bad taste.
Therefore, just because it’s ok to wear white shoes to a wedding doesn’t automatically grant you a free license to wear all white.
Rule #3: Don’t Wear White Shoes That Distract From the Ceremony
While it’s perfectly fine to wear white shoes to a wedding, it’s important to make sure that they don’t distract from the ceremony itself.
Flashy or sparkly shoes can reflect sunlight and blind guests, making it difficult for them to focus on the couple getting married. If you’re looking for shoes that will blend in with your outfit, consider opting for a classic pair of white pumps or ballet flats.
With their simple design, they’ll help you blend into the background and let the focus remain on the bride and groom.
Rule #4: Never Wear White Shoes To an Outdoor Wedding
It’s wedding season, and that means plenty of opportunities to break out your best white shoes.
However, there is one type of event where you should think twice before donning a pair of white sneakers or sandals: an outdoor wedding.
While a sunny day may seem like the perfect opportunity to show off your new kicks, there are a few reasons why you should avoid wearing white shoes to an outdoor wedding.
First, there’s the risk of dirt or stains.
Even if you’re careful, it’s all too easy to step on a patch of mud or have a drink spill on your shoes. Second, white shoes can be difficult to keep clean.
If you’re constantly worrying about keeping your shoes clean, you’re likely to miss out on enjoying the wedding itself.
Rule #5: Don’t Wear White Shoes In the Rain or Snow
If the weather is snowy, rainy, or messy in any way, don’t wear white shoes to a wedding.
Not only will you be risking ruined shoes, but you’ll also be tracking mud and dirt into the reception. Plus, white shoes are more likely to show stains than darker colors.
So if you’re attending a wedding in inclement weather, play it safe and go with a darker shoe.
Your feet (and the bride) will thank you.
Rule #6: Know the Cultural Symbolism of White
In the Western world, the color white is often associated with purity, innocence, and in some cases, new beginnings.
However, it’s important to remember that not all cultures have the same associations with the color white. In many Eastern cultures, white is actually associated with grief and death.
For example, in Chinese culture, white is sometimes connected with mourning.
As a result, it’s important to be aware of the cultural symbolism of the color white before wearing white shoes to a wedding. While you might mean to show respect for the bride and groom, you could unintentionally end up causing offense.
In general, it’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to culturally significant colors.
Rule #7: What the Bride Says Goes
As any wedding planner will tell you, a bride’s big day is all about her.
From the flowers to the dress to the cake, everything should be just as she wants it. That’s why it’s important to respect the bride’s wishes when it comes to what to wear.
If she asks you not to wear white shoes, it’s best to simply comply.
After all, it’s her day and you don’t want to do anything to make it less than perfect. Besides, there are plenty of other footwear options that will look just as good with your outfit.
Here is a short video I made about whether or not you should wear white shoes to a wedding:
Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding as a Guest?
The short answer is yes, you can.
White shoes are usually not a problem for guests to wear to any wedding. Just remember to double-check the dress code on the wedding invitation or website.
Also, check the venue and weather.
If the venue is outdoors on a sunny day, you might want to avoid white shoes because they can get dirty or hot. And if the venue is indoors, you’ll want to make sure your shoes won’t mark up the floors.
Other than that, white shoes are fair game for weddings.
Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding as the Groom?
While the groom usually wears a dark suit, there is no rule that says he can’t break out of the mold and wear something different.
In fact, more and more grooms are choosing to add a personal touch to their wedding day look by wearing white shoes.
Whether you’re looking to make a fashion statement or simply want to coordinate with your bride, wearing white shoes on your wedding day is definitely an option worth considering.
However, before you make your decision, be sure to take into account the overall color scheme of the wedding, as well as what type of shoes will best match your outfit.
And most importantly, make sure the bride approves! After all, it is her big day, too.
Are You Allowed to Wear White Heels to a Wedding?
If you’re wondering whether you can wear white heels to a wedding, the answer is yes.
However, there are a few things to consider before deciding to wear white heels to a wedding.
Consider:
- The venue
- The smoothness of the ground/floor
- The weather
If the wedding is taking place outdoors, you might want to avoid wearing heels altogether.
Heels can sink into the ground and make it difficult to walk, especially if the ground is soft or uneven. And if the weather is icy or wet, heels can also be quite slippery and dangerous.
So if you’re planning on attending an outdoor wedding, it’s probably best to stick with flats or pumps.
But if the wedding is taking place indoors or on pavement, then white heels are perfectly fine.
Can You Wear White Sandals to a Wedding?
Although white sandals might traditionally be seen as casual footwear, they can actually be a great choice for a wedding.
The key is to choose a pair that is appropriate for the tone, vibe, and formality of the wedding.
For example, a pair of white leather gladiator sandals would be a good choice for a bohemian-themed beach wedding. On the other hand, a pair of delicate white satin sandals would be more appropriate for a formal banquet hall wedding.
Here are a few of my favorite white sandals for weddings:
Can I Wear White Boots to a Wedding?
When it comes to wedding attire, there are endless options. But one trend that has been gaining popularity in recent years is white boots.
While this might seem like a fashion faux pas, wearing white boots to a wedding can actually be a stylish and unique choice.
And, depending on the type of wedding you’re attending, there are a few different ways to rock this look.
For example, if you’re attending a rustic barn wedding, Pairing your white boots with a flowy dress or skirt will give you a chic bohemian vibe. Or, if you’re attending a more formal affair, opting for a pair of crisp white booties with your suit or tuxedo will add a touch of playfulness to your look.
Can You Wear White Sneakers to a Wedding?
You should usually not wear sneakers to a wedding.
Most sneakers are too casual for a formal event like a wedding. However, if the wedding is informal or outside, sneakers might be appropriate. But maybe not white sneakers since they get dirty and show scuff marks or dirt so easily.
Brides can wear white sneakers with their wedding dress and grooms can wear white sneakers with their black suits.
As usual, check the dress code for the celebration before showing up in sneakers.
Can You Wear Cream Shoes to a Wedding?
Some people wonder if you can wear cream to a wedding (outfits, shoes, or accessories).
The answer is yes, you can wear cream shoes to a wedding. Most of the time, cream-colored shoes are not that different from solid white shoes.
And, at the majority of weddings, you can wear whatever color shoes you want as a guest.
Final Thoughts: Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding?
The bottom line is that you can wear white shoes to your wedding or as a guest at someone else’s wedding.
In case you’re wondering, kids can also wear white shoes.
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