All of them are under $100
Podiatrist-Approved Wedding Guest Shoes
- ’90s Vibes: Italian Leather Crisscross Platform Sandal, $92
- “Sweet Spot” Heel Height: Italian Leather 65mm Block Heel Pump, $98
- Supportive and Secure: Italian Leather Slingback Flat, $84
- “Comfortable Right Out of the Box”: Italian Leather Twist Mid Heel Mule, $82
In my opinion, choosing the right pair of wedding guest shoes is even more important than finding a dress. Because if two hours into the nuptials, my toes are screaming, I’m not staying to dance the night away.
That’s why I talked to “The High Heel Doctor,” Dr. Bobby Pourziaee, Board Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon, about picking the best pair. The key, he says, is finding “the balance between elegance and stability,” while keeping in mind just how long you’ll be wearing the shoes and seeking “more stable and supportive” styles. Curious what qualifies? Keep scrolling to see Dr. Pourziaee’s picks from Quince.
Related: My Mom, 61, Is a Realtor and Restaurant Worker — These Are the Podiatrist-Approved Shoes She’d Buy for Long Shifts
Italian Leather Crisscross Platform Sandal
$92 at Quince.com
Not only does the '90s-inspired platform on this heeled sandal give it a throwback feel, but it’s one of Dr. Pourziaee’s favorite features. It decreases the pitch (the difference in height between the heel and front foot) and “helps reduce pressure under the ball of the foot.” The thicker block heel “creates significantly more stability,” while the thicker upper provides “security” that stops you from gripping the shoe with your toes.
Podiatrist-Approved Shopping Tips
- Prioritize arch support, cushioning, and security
- Avoid overly high heels that add pressure to the forefoot and “aggravate bunions, neuromas, metatarsalgia, or Achilles tightness”
- Look for straps or backs for stability and cushioning for shock absorption
Italian Leather 65mm Block Heel Pump
$98 at Quince.com
There’s a reason pumps are a classic choice. They go with anything, and according to Dr. Pourziaee, this pair is the “sweet spot” for heel heights, at roughly 2.5 inches, and it has “improved stability” thanks to the block heel design. Because they’re closed-toe, they “secure the foot,” prevent muscle fatigue, and improve balance. Shoppers attest to that, saying they’re “comfortable to wear for an extended time” and “don’t need any breaking in.”
Shop More Colors
Italian Leather 65mm Block Heel Pump $98 at Quince.com |
Italian Leather 65mm Block Heel Pump $98 at Quince.com |
Italian Leather Slingback Flat
$84 at Quince.com
If you’re dealing with bunions, forefoot pain, or plantar fasciitis, these flats are Dr. Pourziaee’s best recommendation. The slingback design is adjustable, allowing a custom fit, and he says the strap keeps the foot secure, reducing toe gripping. While he does mention that flats aren’t automatically better for the feet than heels, because this pair isn’t ultra-thin, it’s a much better choice. Plus, he says you can add a “slim supportive insert” for added comfort.
Foot-Friendly Features
When looking for wedding shoes, Dr. Pourziaee recommends finding:
- A block heel “for better balance and ankle stability”
- Moderate heel heights around 2 and 3 inches
- A platform to “reduce pressure on the ball of the foot”
Italian Leather Twist Mid Heel Mule
$82 at Quince.com
Shoppers with bunions call these mules “comfortable right out of the box,” and Dr. Pourziaee recommends them for shorter-duration weddings. While the open back doesn’t secure the foot as well as slingbacks or pumps, he explains that they are a “much better option” than a stiletto and allow you to prioritize style while still having a manageable heel height that “decreases forefoot overload.”
Shop More Colors
Italian Leather Twist Mid Heel Mule $82 at Quince.com |
Italian Leather Twist Mid Heel Mule $82 at Quince.com |
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