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Updated Mar 06, 202524 Outdoor Wedding Shoes for Walking on Grass
Put your best foot—securely—forward.
Photos, left to right: Aldo, Loeffler Randall
Summer is nigh, and we're stepping right into outdoor wedding season. It's a fun time of year: sweet grassy ceremonies, bistro-lit dinners and dancing under the stars. But—bride or guest—you simply can't enjoy it without the right footwear. We turned to an expert to find out what to look for in outdoor wedding shoes, then rounded up a couple dozen of our favorites for both guests and guests of honor. The gist? "For comfort and wearability outdoors, brides should stick to block heels, wedges and crisscross straps that really hold your foot securely, even while dancing—no twisted ankles here, please!" says Regina Popp, the Senior Director of Fashion & Trend at DSW. "Mid-heights are all the rage right now, so it should be relatively easy to find a chic option with a wearable heel; the larger the strike surface, the more secure you will feel." That said, if you fall in love with a pair that's not as well-known for wearability, take comfort (quite literally). "There are so many customizable comfort options today," Popp adds. "It's worth inserting a ball-of-foot cushion or rear counter cushion to add another level of pillowy comfort to your prettiest bridal shoes. Fashion tape is also a lifesaver if any slings or straps are too loose on your shoes. Just secure in place with the double-sided tape and dance the night away!"
What to Look for in Outdoor Wedding Shoes
Fashionable or not, spiky stilettos are just not the vibe for wedding shoes for outdoor weddings. Luckily for brides and guests this season, what's trendy is also what's most practical for outdoor affairs: chunky heels, chic ballet flats and wedges. Here, DSW expert Regina Popp notes a few specifics to keep in mind.
- Large Striking Surface: The larger the area that hits the ground, the more stable you'll be. Chunky square heels are ideal; we've also recently seen a trend toward wide cylindrical heels. Think grass, especially. "Garden weddings call for block heels so you won't sink in as you walk down the aisle," Popp says.
- Straps: The strappier, the better. In heels and wedges, look for straps that crisscross over the ankle. Straps even help with flats, so your foot doesn't slide right out; look for gladiator styles in sandals and flats.
- Height (or lack of it): "Mid-heights with a blockier heel shape will be the most pretty-yet-wearable option for uneven surfaces," Popp says. If you're not into complete flats, opt for a heel around 2 or 3 inches tall.
- Slides: Some weddings call for no shoes at all—at least partially. "Sandals and wedges are the perfect option for beach weddings and sandy aisles," Popp says. "The lower, the better, so as not to topple in the uneven sand. Slides may be best to slip on and off easily." Consider kicking off your shoes as you enter the sand, then sliding them back on later.
- Heel Protectors: If your mind is set on a spikier style, try an add-on heel protector, which serves to increase the size of the striking surface, as Popp recommends above. Take heed, though: This type of product has mixed reviews, so order in advance and ensure they work with your shoes before the big day arrives.
Bridal Shoes for an Outdoor Wedding
Whether you're searching for wedding shoes for grass, sand, gravel or cement, shoes for the bride at an outdoor wedding need to check a lot of boxes: They should be sturdy and stable, comfortable enough to wear all day (and dance all night), and, in most cases, white or off-white. It's a tall order. Here, we've rounded up a dozen pretty pairs that fit the bill.
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Loeffler Randall Camellia Pleated Bow Heel
Photo: Loeffler Randall
Loeffler Randall's signature shoe was practically made for outdoor weddings: Each pair is rendered in airy pleated fabric, features a feminine knotted bow and keeps footing secure with an ankle strap and wide cylindrical heel. They're oh-so-chic for garden weddings and the perfect shoes for a wedding on grass. Plus, with a variety of color options—including a watery blue floral we love—these are also great bridesmaid shoes for an outdoor wedding. Note that the Camellia runs narrow, so the brand suggests sizing up a half size for wider feet.
Size Range: 5-12
Badgley Mischka London Ankle Strap Flat
Photo: Nordstrom
While heel-lovers certainly have options, the best outdoor wedding shoes are arguably flats; they'll keep you stable on uneven surfaces and won't sink into soft grass. Flats also give off an easy, effortless vibe—but that doesn't mean they're any less elegant. Case in point, these pearl strapped flats with a tapered crepe toe by bridal shoe go-to Badgley Mischka. We envision this sweet shoe with a tea-length dress or a vintage midi on a bride with a unique, sophisticated style.
Size Range: 5-11
Steve Madden Milly Sandal
Photo: DSW
A top pick from our expert, Regina Popp, this Steven Madden sandal has a fun detail with its twisty, rhinestone-embellished wraparound ankle strap. But it's more than just a design detail; the strap adds extra support and, combined with the chunky heel, guarantees these are comfortable bridal shoes for an outdoor wedding.
Size Range: 6-11
Dolce Vita Jemmy Pearl Heels
Photo: Nordstrom
Pearls are trending in bridal, from embellished veils to delicate straps and accessories to, of course, the footwear. This party-ready pair comes in vanilla- or champagne-hued silk (we love the latter for beige-tone and off-white dresses) and features a substantial architectural heel for steady steps. Bonus: The slip-on design also makes these shoes for an outdoor wedding easy to kick off when the dance floor gets hot.
Size Range: 5-13
Lulus Panzy Ankle Wrap Pumps
Photo: Lulus
This pretty pump is doubly secure with a closed toe and crisscross ankle straps; the latter comes highly recommended by Popp for secure footing on the dance floor. Brides still get a bit of height here—the heel is 3.5 inches—with the promise of security. Soft faux leather and a shiny gold buckle are textural touches that make this pick stand out from the basic white wedding shoe.
Size Range: 5.5-11
Aldo Lulu Platform Sandal
Photo: Aldo
If you're a high high heel girl, fear not: You don't have to sacrifice height just because you're saying "I do" outdoors. These heels for outdoor weddings offer the best of both worlds and then some with trendy pearl-embellished finishing touches. The 4-inch heel raises you up, but the wide block style, padded platform and ankle strap make for a stable walk down the aisle. Bonus: Aldo's proprietary "pillow walk" technology infuses dual-density foam for added comfort, meaning these shoes can stay with you all the way to the afterparty.
Size Range: 5-11
Jessica Simpson Ghilley Sandal
Photo: DSW
Beach brides have a tough task in finding footwear. Most searches for outdoor wedding bride shoes turn up chunky heels great for grass or wedges that would certainly have you toppling on the beach. For sand, "the lower, the better," Popp says. Sandals and slides with a flat sole and no heel are the best for the beach; slides have the added bonus of being easy to kick off. This Popp pick still says "bridal" with sparkling beads across the square toe.
Size Range: 6-11
Sans Matin Savannah Sneaker
Photo: Sans Matin
Whether it's gathered around a pool or beneath a sailcloth tent on a grassy lawn, an outdoor afterparty will leave you with some of the best memories of your wedding day. You may have already selected your second look (we love a mini dress for the dance party), but don't forget about footwear. These white leather sneakers by Brit brand Sans Matin have a pretty pop of something blue. They're ethically made, and though the sizing is European, the site offers a fit finder quiz to help select the right size.
Size Range: European sizing 36-42
Betsey Johnson Gail Pearl Boot
Photo: Betsey Johnson
These wedding shoes for an outdoor wedding are for a very specific theme: The outdoor winter wedding (yes, people get married in the snow! See: celebs Josh Radnor and Jordana Jacobs). These Betsey Johnson boots are made to brave the elements, with a closed toe and ankle-height upper and pearl embellishments that mimic shimmering snow—but they're also a stylish pick for fall outdoor wedding shoes. The brand-new style is set to ship right in time for winter wedding season.
Size range: 5-13
Bella Belle Alicia Lace Ballet Flats
Photo: Bella Belle
These outdoor wedding shoes for the bride work equally well for beach or garden settings, from the design details to the practical elements. The illusion mesh lace features floral embroidery, and cross-tie ankle straps keep the foot secure. The ballet flat style is demure and feminine; we love it with a cocktail-length dress or peeking out from below an unembellished smooth crepe style. (By the way, padded soles make these extra comfortable for all-day wear.)
Size Range: 6-11
Betsey Johnson Roo Blue Floral Slip-On
Photo: Bella Belle
Jumping on the super on-trend chinoiserie bandwagon, these Betsey Johnson bestsellers are the perfect something blue for your big day. And, with a unique architectural block heel, they're also the ideal lawn wedding shoes. The best part? You can rewear these long after your wedding day. Pack them for your tropical honeymoon to keep the love going, pair them with jeans for a night out, or wear them as a guest to the next outdoor wedding you attend.
Size Range: 5-12
Stuart Weitzman Tia 75 MM Leather Sandals in Seashell
Photo: Saks Fifth Avenue
A simple, straightforward stunner, this Stuart Weitzman style is both sturdy and sophisticated, with a uniquely positioned ankle strap and a 3-inch block heel. They're a splurge for sure, but these made-in-Spain sandals are high-quality enough to be passed on to the next generation of outdoor brides.
Size Range: 5.5-12
Outdoor Wedding Guest Shoes for Grass and Other Surfaces
Whether you are the bride or a guest, comfort is key when it comes to wedding shoes—especially outdoor wedding shoes. But so is aesthetic, color and cuteness. These selections don't compromise comfort for style or vice versa—each has both in spades. (Psst, browse this list for mother-of-the-bride and bridesmaid shoes for outdoor weddings, too!)
Sam Edelman April Platform Espadrille
Photo: Sam Edelman
The search for comfortable outdoor wedding shoes—especially ones with height—is forever ongoing, but these might just put an end to it. An espadrille is the quintessential outdoor heel, and these provide even more stability than usual with a subtle arch in the sole, rather than a wobbly flat sole; and an ankle strap seals the deal. The shoe comes in two shades of leather and three shades of raffia; we especially love the latter for outdoor weddings.
Size Range: 5-11
Journee Collection Zavi Sandal in Blue
Photo: DSW
Blue isn't just for the bride. These summery sandals are great shoes for outdoor weddings on grass. The textured linen infuses our favorite warm-weather fabric, and the bow is an on-trend detail. Pair these with a solid-colored dress and pretty earrings for a garden wedding.
Size Range: 5-12
Schutz Jaycie Satin Flats in Pink
Photo: Schutz
Balletcore makes its way into wedding guest attire with these pretty pink flats (though silver studs give them a punk-rock twist, and a square toe makes them ultra-modern). While flats are already a great option for outdoor wedding guest shoes, these ones are extra secure with crisscross straps. Wear them post-wedding, too, with cropped jeans and a tee for a casual-cute date night.
Size Range: 5-11
Farm Rio Rust Puffer High Sandal
Photo: Farm Rio
Farm Rio is our pick for outdoor wedding everything, from guest dresses to destination wedding looks, and shoes are no exception. The brand is on-theme in the best way, with nods to nature and patterned details. (In fact, these rust puffers are a refined look for the label.) These, in particular, are great shoes for outdoor fall wedding guest attire, with a rich hue and enveloping fabric despite the open toe. The blocky mid-height heel is great for comfort, too.
Size Range: 5-11
Aerosoles Women's Platform Sandal
Photo: Aerosoles
The Aerosoles brand ethos is all about comfort; the company develops its own innovative products and technology to perfect grip, fit, weight distribution, breathability and more. So, for a day that's all about standing, walking and dancing, there couldn't be a better pick. Plus, these comfortable outdoor wedding shoes come in 20 colors and fabrics—yes, 20!—so you're guaranteed to find an outfit match. We love the gold faux leather for a metallic look or the green sheen crinkle leather for a vibrant summer event.
Size Range: 5-12
Paige Becca Slip On Strappy Sandals in Dark Gold
Photo: Bloomingdale's
Metallic is always a great choice when it comes to shoes for outdoor wedding guests—the hue is celebratory, formal and perfect for catching the light. These slip-ons especially: they're easy to slide in and out of if walking across sand or kicking up your heels on the dance floor, and the design is delicate and summery.
Size Range: 5-10.5
Dolce Vita Niyah Heel
Photo: Revolve
Rafia is an on-trend material that screams summer, making these shoes a top pick for weddings in high season. The heel is narrow at the top but tapers out for a wider striking surface at the base. Pair these with a denim dress for casual weddings or a linen or cotton number, and finish with chunky gold jewelry.
Size Range: 5-10
Stuart Weitzman Dayna Crisscross Sandals in Adobe
Photo: Bloomingdale's
Sometimes, it's okay to splurge—especially on shoes you'll wear all summer long. These Stuart Weitzman sandals feature a chunky block heel and comfortable platform and pair well with everything from flowy floral wedding guest dresses to denim mini skirts and tank tops post-nuptials.
Size Range: 5-11
Vince Camuto Hampden Pump in Floral Leather
Photo: Vince Camuto
Garden wedding? Say no more. These fun floral slingbacks make a poppy addition to any wedding guest look and promise comfort to boot with a secure strap and mid-height heel. Pair them with a solid-colored silk slip dress, a vibrant poplin frock or even something vintage.
Size Range: 5-12
Katie & Kelly Juleii Pump in Magenta
Photo: DSW
Pumps are the oft-forgotten shoe option for outdoor weddings as they typically have a skinnier heel, but these vibrant magenta ones are the ideal in-between. A sturdy heel and pointed closed toe help with stability (and warmth – try these for early spring or mid-fall weddings!), while the poppy hue proves you're ready to party. By the way, we also love these as mother-of-the-bride shoes for outdoor weddings.
Size Range: 6-11
Circus NY by Sam Edelman Isadora Shoes
Photo: Zappos
Take a cue from Gen Z with these super chunky outdoor wedding guest shoes. An ultra-wide heel and padded platform make it seem like you're walking in bubble shoes—with comfort to match. Dark key lime and pink sorbet are delicious color options for outdoor affairs.
Size Range: 6-10
Mix No. 6 Maryiette Wedge Sandal
Photo: DSW
Versatile enough for any type of wedding attire, this pick from our expert actually appears to disappear. The clear PVC toe strap provides stability without adding any visible design, and the nude-tone wedge elongates the leg. Pair these with heavily patterned dresses, floor-length gowns or even a cocktail mini dress, and walk—and dance—with solid footing.
Size Range: 6-11
