At Wedding Pioneer, we know that wedding etiquette and wedding attire are both serious business.

But don’t worry—if you’re a wedding guest, and you’re wondering, “Can you wear white shoes to a wedding?” We’ve got all of your answers!

So when you’re done with watching all those “Wearing White Shoes to a Wedding” TikTok videos, keep this blog bookmarked for the real deal.

Let’s have fun deciding on the best wedding shoes for you!

Key Takeaways

• Wearing white to a wedding has evolved from a strict taboo to being potentially acceptable, depending on the couple’s preferences and the cultural significance of the color in the context of the event.
• To avoid fashion faux pas, be culturally sensitive, adhere to the dress code on the invitation, and consider the couple’s personality when choosing to wear white shoes to their wedding.
• The best way to decide on footwear as a wedding guest is to consult with the bride or a member of the wedding party. Neutral-colored shoes can be a tasteful alternative to bridal shades of white, and you might feel more relaxed and comfortable.

Is It Okay To Wear White Shoes to a Wedding?

In years gone by, it would be a complete no-no for guests to wear white to a wedding.

Since the white wedding dress was made fashionable by Queen Victoria of England on her wedding day, wearing white has traditionally been seen as the “bride’s territory” for almost two hundred years.

But times are changing (thankfully!), and wedding etiquette is also loosening up on strict dress codes.

At any special event like a wedding, there will always be “dos and don’ts” and the “should or shouldn’t” to think about.

That’s why Wedding Pioneer created this helpful guide… so you don’t end up putting your foot in it!

Can You Wear White Shoes to a Different Cultural Wedding

In some cultures around the world, white doesn’t represent purity and peace like it does in a Western wedding.

White can represent sadness for some people, and they might even consider white to be the only color for a vigil or funeral.

Always show your respect for the wedding couple and their families by making sure that a white outfit or shoes are appropriate choices for their ceremony and reception.

Always Check the Dress Code for White Shoes at a Wedding

It’s always been popular for couples to include a dress code on wedding invitations or their wedding website.

Examples of a dress code include casual, smart casual, or formal black tie. It’s also interesting to see couples creating a theme for their day, like an “all-white wedding!”

How Laid-Back (Or Highly Strung) Is the Couple?

A laid-back bride and groom won’t be worrying about what their guests are wearing on their wedding day, while a highly strung or easily stressed out couple will.

How well you know them will help you decide whether or not it’s safe to wear white shoes to their wedding.

Find Out What the Bridesmaids Are Wearing

If the dress code doesn’t give too much away, see if you can find out what the bridesmaids are wearing.

As I mentioned earlier, the all-white wedding is becoming pretty popular, and as long as you don’t match the bridesmaids’ dresses, you should be good with wearing white shoes to a wedding.

Check out our gorgeous list of White Bridesmaid Dresses!

Can You Wear White Shoes to an Outdoor Wedding

If you’re attending an outdoor wedding, it’s worth considering where it will be held and what the weather conditions will be like, because dust, mud, slush, or snow won’t be great conditions for your white high heels.

The Fabric of the Shoe

Traditionally, brides wear a shoe that matches the wedding dress and in some cases, the bridesmaids as well.

Examples include satin, lace, or fabric from the dress. More adventurous brides, after consulting with their designer, may even decide to take it up a notch with sequins, and other accessories that match.

If you’re adamant about wearing white shoes, make sure that you don’t go with too formal a look, like a shoe that’s covered in satin, lace, or too much bedazzling

If in Doubt, Go Nude

No, we don’t mean going that kind of nude! But what we do mean is opting for a natural, neutral, or “nude” palette to complement your outfit.

Think cream, beige, bronze, silver, or light gray – not only will you feel stylish and comfortable, but these colors are timeless and always in fashion.

Still Not Sure? Get a Second Opinion

There’s nothing worse than finding the perfect pair of white shoes that offers both style and comfort—and then second-guess your decision.

If you can, ask the bride. If not, try someone who’s in the bridal party to get the thumbs-up, or a suggestion to go with a safer, neutral option.

Be Guided by Your Gut

The fact you’ve been invited to the wedding means you know the couple and should have a pretty good idea whether your white shoes will offend them in any way.

Our advice is to always go with your gut… except when it comes to certain shoes – yes, we’re talking Crocs and grubby-seen-better-days sneakers. These are ABSOLUTE no-nos and will leave a lasting impression, for all the wrong reasons!