Can I wear bridal block heels to a beach wedding?

For beach nuptials, you may want to keep your bridal block heels for the reception. “You can wear block heels for a beach wedding, but I would suggest having a fun pair of sandals or being barefoot for the ceremony,” says fashion stylist Ashlyn Greer. “It's an easy change into your wedding heels for the reception, which will likely have more of a hard surface like a dance floor.”

Do wedding shoes have to be white?

White shoes may be the first thing that pops to mind when you hear the phrase “bridal shoes,” but that doesn’t mean that you absolutely have to go for them. For Choi, bridal block heels are “the perfect way to add something blue to your wedding wardrobe.” She adds, “If you have a favorite color, or there is a special color scheme for your wedding florals and designs, [shoes are] a nice way to tie all of that together also.”

Do I need to break in bridal block heels?

When it comes to your wedding day, it’s always best to be prepared for anything. “You definitely want to test-drive your wedding shoes so you aren't in unexpected pain the day of,” says Greer. “Block heels tend to be fairly comfortable and don't need breaking in , but it's always a good idea to wear them for a day to see if they're easy to walk in and make sure no blisters develop.” If you find that your bridal block heels are painful or do cause blisters, “wear them a few more times for short periods to determine if they do just need to be broken in, or if the shoe just doesn't work with your foot,” Greer adds.

The 19 Best Bridal Block Heels of 2024, Editor-Approved

Various bridal block heels for dancing on a purple background

While choosing a wedding dress might get the most attention, shoes are one of the most important components of an overarching ensemble. Think about it: Wedding shoes help create a cohesive bridal look, and they're responsible for carrying you down the aisle and out to the dance floor as you celebrate the day. And though there are various wedding shoe options available, block heels for brides rank as one of the most popular choices. They come in a wide assortment of styles and are typically one of the most comfortable heel options.

Since block heels give you more surface area to balance on, they're easier for most people to walk in, which is especially important if you're having an outdoor celebration on grass, sand, or uneven terrain. Block heels mean less pressure placed on your toes, meaning you'll have a better chance of making it all night without kicking your heels off. "It's always fun to pick something that has a special touch, like a bow or stones," says fashion stylist Ashlyn Greer. Whether you want ultrahigh shoes with lots of glam or something lower and more understated, there's a block-heel bridal shoe in the right height, style, and color.

Our Top Picks

Best Convertible Heel:

Pashion Footwear The Sandal at Pashionfootwear.com

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Best Budget:

Lulus Harper Off White Ankle Strap Heels at Amazon

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Best Strappy Sandals:

Jessica Simpson Women's Stassey Heels at Amazon

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Best Lace:

J. Renee Faleece Slingback Block Heels at Amazon

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Best Bow Detail:

Bella Belle Zoya Sandal at Bellabelleshoes.com

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Best for the Sophisticated Bride:

Betsey Johnson Nobble Ivory at Amazon

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Best Comfortable:

SALE

LifeStride Last Dance Platform Sandal at Amazon ~~$100~~ $38

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Best for the Contemporary Bride:

Loeffler Randall Camellia Pearl Pleated Bow Heel at Amazon

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Best Low Heel:

Lulus Satin Bow Ankle Strap Sandals at Lulus

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Best Understated:

Aldo Strappy Heeled Shoe at Amazon

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Best Convertible Heel

Pashion Footwear The Sandal

PHOTO: Pashion

View on Pashionfootwear.com

If you can't decide between block heels, stilettos, and flats, Pashion Footwear has you covered with its popular convertible styles. The white leather sandal comes with your choice of a 3-inch or 4-inch block heel, which can be switched out with a variety of other heel options for a totally customizable look.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: Customizable | Colors: 10

Best Budget

Lulus Harper Off White Ankle Strap Heels

PHOTO: Lulus

View on Amazon View on Lulus

If you're on a budget, there's no need to break the bank in order to get a special pair of bridal shoes. Coming in 17 different color options, these classic 2.5-inch block heels have over 2,000 rave reviews and are beloved for their chic and sturdy design.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 17

Best Strappy Sandals

Jessica Simpson Women's Stassey Heels

Jessica Simpson Women's Stassey Bridal Strappy Block-Heel Sandals

PHOTO: Macy's

View on Amazon View on Macy's View on Dsw.com

The caged silhouette of Jessica Simpson's Stassey heel boasts crisscrossing straps that are not only sexy but offer plenty of support for a night of mixing and mingling on your feet as well. Since strappy styles can sometimes cause blisters, breaking these beauties in before the big day is a must for ultimate comfort.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3.25 inches | Colors: 1

Best Lace

J. Renee Faleece Slingback Block Heels

PHOTO: Dillard's

View on Amazon View on Nordstrom View on Jrenee.com

Lace, satin, and rhinestones come together to create one of our favorite lace bridal shoes that's as comfortable as it is captivating. The best part is the 1.5-inch block heel, ideal for anyone who wants a bit of height without worrying about aching toes.

Size Range: 5-13 | Heel Height: 1.5 inches | Colors: 6

Best Bow Detail

Bella Belle Zoya Sandal

PHOTO: Bella Belle

View on Bellabelleshoes.com

These seemingly classic block heels exemplify bridal shoes thanks to their satin bows. Designed for brides, they feature heavy padding for all-day comfort.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches | Colors: 1

Best for the Sophisticated Bride

Betsey Johnson Nobble Ivory

PHOTO: Betsey Johnson

View on Amazon View on Nordstrom View on Macy's

If you can’t have a little fantasy on your wedding day, when can you, eh? These pumps by Betsey Johnson feature a super fun asymmetrical block heel, plus all-over glitter and a statement bow in the front. While the ivory version is extra wedding-ready, these shoes in sparkly champagne or silver would totally work for your bridal look, too.

Size Range: 6-11 | Heel Height: 4.25 inches | Colors: 7

Best Comfortable

LifeStride Last Dance Platform Sandal

PHOTO: DSW

$100 $38 at Amazon View on Nordstrom View on Dsw.com

Many brides prefer to opt for a heeled shoe on their wedding day, but of course, the problem with that is that heels can often hurt your feet quite a bit—especially if you’re wearing them throughout your reception. Block heels in general are a great solution to this since they offer a little more stability, but these by LifeStride take it one step further. Constructed with a foam footbed, arch and heel support, flexibility, and a traction sole, these shoes were made for dancin’ (it’s in the name, after all). And obviously, they’re beautiful, too.

Size Range: 5-12 | Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: 3

Best for the Contemporary Bride

Loeffler Randall Camellia Pearl Pleated Bow Heel

PHOTO: Bloomingdale's

View on Amazon View on Nordstrom View on Net-A-Porter

Crinkled taffeta gives these festive Loeffler Randall block heels a modern twist, making them phenomenal for short wedding dresses or a playful second look. While the rounded block heel and slim ankle strap provide security, the 3.5-inch height will give any bride an added boost.

Size Range: 5-12 | Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: 14

Best Low Heel

Lulus Satin Bow Ankle Strap Sandals

Lulus Charmane White Satin Bow Ankle Strap Sandals

PHOTO: Lulus

View on Lulus

If higher heels aren't for you, this stunning lower-heeled option will give you all the support without compromising on style. Featuring a bow and a 1.25-inch block heel, this simple sandal from Lulus is a perfect choice for beach weddings.

Size Range: 5.5-11 | Heel Height: 1.25 inches | Colors: 1

Best Understated

Aldo Strappy Heeled Shoe

PHOTO: Aldo

View on Amazon View on Aldoshoes.com View on Zappos

Whether you’re going for an overall understated wedding look or you want to balance out an already very intricate dress, these simple white pumps are the ones. They feature a high block heel, a closed pointed toe, and a single skinny ankle strap to secure your foot. Plus, they’re made with Aldo’s proprietary Pillow Walk technology, meaning they’re extra comfy for dancing the night away.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: 5

Best Colorful

Bella Belle Eden Blush Block Heels

PHOTO: Bella Belle

View on Bellabelleshoes.com

Garden-inspired with organza flowers and embroidered vines, Bella Belle's Eden heels were made for brides who crave uniqueness. If the four-inch block heel feels too high, there's a 2-inch option that offers the same style without the height.

Size Range: 5-10 | Heel Height: 4 inches | Colors: 1

Best Blue

Badgley Mischka Collection Finesse Sandal

PHOTO: Nordstrom

$235 $150 at Amazon View on Nordstrom View on Zappos

Let your bridal shoe double as your "something blue" with Badgley Mischka's Finesse sandal in the Mist Satin hue. Both the toe and ankle strap of these blue wedding shoes are covered with crystals and embellishments that add extra pizzazz to the already stunning pair.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3.25 inches | Colors: 3

Best for a Country Wedding

Steve Madden Rozlyn Ankle Strap Sandal

PHOTO: Nordstrom

View on Amazon View on Zappos View on Shoemall.com

For brides who are getting married in a backyard, a barn, or a stunning woodsy setting, we love the idea of a shoe with a rustic touch. These Steve Madden sandals are lovely in white or tan for a bridal look, since they’re classic and streamlined in the front, but add a little something unexpected with their woven rope square heel.

Size Range: 5.5-11 | Heel Height: 4 inches | Colors: 3

Best Slingback

Vince Camuto Hamden Slingback Pointed Toe Pump

PHOTO: Vince Camuto

View on Amazon

We’re big fans of a slingback-style shoe for an elegant bridal silhouette, and these from Vince Camuto don’t disappoint. They feature a pointed closed toe and mid-height wide block heel and come in a fantastic range of colorways. While the warm vanilla color is the easiest to style for a bridal look, the pale peony, sandstone, and truffle taupe velvet options are equally beautiful.

Size Range: 5-12 | Heel Height: 2.7 inches | Colors: 8

Best for a Preppy Bride

Jack Rogers Debra Mid Heel

PHOTO: Jack Rogers

$148 at Amazon View on Nordstrom View on Jackrogersusa.com

Jack Rogers may be famous for its flat leather thong sandals, but the classic brand makes all sorts of shoe styles with the same care and quality. Whether in white or platinum, these mid-heeled slides are beautiful for preppy brides, thanks to their leather construction and big satin bow embellishment.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 1.78 inches | Colors: 3

Best Booties

Blue by Betsey Johnson Cady Dress Bootie

PHOTO: Zappos

$90 $77 at Amazon View on Nordstrom View on Zappos

Edgy and glam meets bridal in Betsey Johnson's Cady booties. Coming in a few different colors (all of which feature a Tiffany blue outsole), these sturdy block heels feature all-over rhinestones that'll shimmer and shine as you strut down the aisle.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: 17

Best Bling

Gianni Bini Ronilynn Jewel Embellished Sandals

PHOTO: Dillard's

View on Dillards.com

There's no better time to rock statement heels than on your wedding day, and these Gianni Bini sandals dazzle from every angle. While the 3.93-inch heel height is on the higher side, the block design will keep you feeling sturdy as you celebrate your special occasion.

Size Range: 5-12 | Heel Height: 3.93 inches | Colors: 7

Best Ankle Strap

Dolce Vita Iesha Sandal

PHOTO: Revolve

View on Revolve View on Dolcevita.com

These chic sandals from Dolce Vita are modern and feminine. The ivory leather sandals feature crisscross ankle straps for a stylish and supportive fit. The ruffle detailing adds a delicate touch that makes these versatile sandals wedding day-ready.

Size Range: 5-12 | Heel Height: 3.2 inches | Colors: 2

Best Curved Heel

Loeffler Randall Malia Cream Curved-Heel Sandal

PHOTO: Loeffler Randall

View on Loefflerrandall.com View on Bergdorfgoodman.com View on Saks Fifth Avenue

The Loeffler Randall Malia Cream Curved-Heel Sandal is a sleek choice for a bride who is looking for comfort and style. These sandals have an open toe and a single band upper and are made with Italian satin. The sculptural 3.5-inch heel adds to the design and features thin straps that wrap around the ankle for a secure fit. They tend to run narrow, so size up if you have a wider foot.

Size Range: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: 3

What to Look for in Bridal Block Heel Shoes

Heel Height: For New York-based bridal stylist Anny Choi, there’s a golden rule when it comes to wedding shoes, including bridal block heels: “Most wedding dresses are floor length and you don't end up seeing a lot of your shoes anyway, and I would prioritize comfort over design,” she says. With that in mind, the heel height you go for “totally depends on the dress as well as the bride's comfort level in heels,” says Choi. “If you are not used to wearing high heels, don't try on your wedding day for the first time, and stick to a sturdy lower block heel. If you need some extra height for your dress, I'd look for platform block heel options.”
Style: Of course, the style of bridal heels you choose should be something you adore, but that’s not the only thing to keep in mind. “Look at shoes you wear regularly, what you feel the most comfortable in, and make your decision that way,” says Choi. “If you're not used to wearing a mule, for example, you wouldn't want it slipping off under your big dress.”
Color: Many brides opt for white, ivory, blush, or champagne bridal block heels, but those are by no means the only choices you have. “White would be the most classic, but don't be afraid to experiment with color,” says Choi. “Pale blue is a subtle way to introduce color; otherwise, think of your floral color scheme and match your shoe to that!”

FAQ

Can I wear bridal block heels to a beach wedding?

For beach nuptials, you may want to keep your bridal block heels for the reception. “You can wear block heels for a beach wedding, but I would suggest having a fun pair of sandals or being barefoot for the ceremony,” says fashion stylist Ashlyn Greer. “It's an easy change into your wedding heels for the reception, which will likely have more of a hard surface like a dance floor.”
Do wedding shoes have to be white?

White shoes may be the first thing that pops to mind when you hear the phrase “bridal shoes,” but that doesn’t mean that you absolutely have to go for them. For Choi, bridal block heels are “the perfect way to add something blue to your wedding wardrobe.” She adds, “If you have a favorite color, or there is a special color scheme for your wedding florals and designs, [shoes are] a nice way to tie all of that together also.”
Do I need to break in bridal block heels?

When it comes to your wedding day, it’s always best to be prepared for anything. “You definitely want to test-drive your wedding shoes so you aren't in unexpected pain the day of,” says Greer. “Block heels tend to be fairly comfortable and don't need breaking in, but it's always a good idea to wear them for a day to see if they're easy to walk in and make sure no blisters develop.”
If you find that your bridal block heels are painful or do cause blisters, “wear them a few more times for short periods to determine if they do just need to be broken in, or if the shoe just doesn't work with your foot,” Greer adds.

Why Trust Brides

Iris Goldsztajn is a Paris-born, London-based freelance writer with 10 years of experience covering fashion, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle for the likes of Brides, InStyle, Marie Claire, British Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Refinery29 and many more. As the former associate editor for Her Campus, she was responsible for all style and beauty news coverage. In order to write this article, Iris drew on her own experience with block heels and spoke to bridal styling experts Anny Choi and Ashlyn Greer to gain further insights into the dos and don’ts of wearing them for your wedding. Rachel Varina, a freelance writer with over six years of experience in the wedding industry, also contributed to this article.

Anny Choi is a New York-based bridal stylist and creative brand consultant with a background in luxury fashion editorial.
Ashlyn Greer is a professional fashion stylist and co-founder of the virtual personal styling service Fashivly.