How to choose the best dress shoes for your wedding day

How to choose the best dress shoes for your wedding day

Your wedding day is one of the most important events of your life, and everything should be perfect, including your choice of dress shoes. The right pair not only complements your outfit but ensures comfort as you move from ceremony to reception, standing for photos and dancing the night away. Finding a balance between style and comfort is essential. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the best dress shoes for your wedding day.

Why the Right Wedding Shoes Matter

Choosing the perfect wedding shoes goes beyond aesthetics—they have to support you throughout a long day. Wedding shoes should offer a sleek, sophisticated appearance that enhances your wedding attire while also providing comfort for hours of standing, walking, and dancing. Well-made, quality shoes will offer more than just style—they'll deliver lasting comfort, support, and durability, ensuring you’re comfortable while making a lasting impression on your guests.

What to Look for in Wedding Shoes

When shopping for your wedding shoes, there are several factors to consider:

  1. Style
    Wedding shoes should match the formality and style of your attire. Classic Oxfords or Brogues are always safe choices and provide a timeless look. For those who prefer something with a bit more personality, a stylish loafer or monk strap could be a great choice.

  2. Material
    Leather is often the top choice for wedding shoes because of its durability and shine. Opt for high-quality leather that can be polished to perfection. If you’re having a summer wedding, a lighter color like tan or oxblood may suit the occasion better. For a more classic, formal wedding, black leather is often preferred.

  3. Comfort
    You’ll be on your feet for long stretches, so comfort is paramount. Look for shoes with padded insoles and a secure fit. Shoes with Goodyear welted soles, like those from Loake or Barker, offer superior comfort and can be re-soled, extending their life well beyond your wedding day.

  4. Fit
    Ensure that your shoes fit comfortably, with enough room for your toes to move but a secure fit around the heel to avoid blisters. Choose shoes with a wider toe box if you have a broader foot, or opt for a custom fitting if possible.

Matching Your Shoes to Your Suit Color and Style

The color and style of your wedding suit play a crucial role in determining the right pair of shoes. The most fashionable wedding styles often pair specific shoe colors with suit shades to create a cohesive, elegant look. Here are the top shoe recommendations for each suit color, based on current men's fashion trends:

  1. Black Suit
    A black suit is the epitome of formal elegance, perfect for traditional weddings. For a classic look, pair your black suit with black leather Oxfords. These timeless shoes add sophistication and sharpness to your overall outfit. The Loake Oxfords are an excellent choice, known for their craftsmanship and Goodyear welted construction, ensuring durability and comfort on your big day.

  2. Navy Suit
    Navy suits have become increasingly popular for weddings, offering a modern yet classic look. For this versatile color, opt for dark brown or oxblood leather shoes. These colors create a beautiful contrast with navy, adding richness to your ensemble. The Barker Brogues in dark brown are a great option, combining style and comfort, and their intricate brogue detailing will complement the sophisticated vibe of a navy suit.

  3. Charcoal Grey Suit
    A charcoal grey suit is another excellent choice for weddings, providing a sleek and refined look. To balance the darker tone of the suit, pair it with black or dark brown leather shoes. The Alfred Mocha Calf Oxford in a deep mocha or dark brown calf leather would pair beautifully with a charcoal grey suit, adding depth to your overall look while offering the durability and comfort you need for all-day wear.

  4. Light Grey or Beige Suit
    For a lighter, more relaxed wedding look, light grey or beige suits are an excellent option. These colors pair well with tan or light brown leather shoes. The lighter tones help keep the look fresh and clean. A great choice for this suit color is the Loake Oxford in tan. The combination of the light suit and tan leather shoes will ensure a cohesive and sophisticated look, perfect for daytime or summer weddings.

  5. Blue Suit
    A vibrant blue suit is perfect for a modern, fashion-forward wedding. Tan or cognac leather shoes work beautifully with blue, offering a refined yet casual look. The Barker Brogues in tan will provide just the right amount of contrast and style to complete a blue suit ensemble.

The Best Wedding Shoe Styles at Joseph’s Shoes

At Josephs Shoes, we offer a selection of premium, stylish wedding shoes that cater to every groom’s needs:

  • Loake Oxfords: With their Goodyear welted construction and timeless design, Loake Oxfords provide both comfort and sophistication. A perfect match for a tuxedo or tailored suit.

  • Alfred Mocha Calf Oxford: For the groom seeking elegance and durability, the Alfred Mocha Calf Oxford offers a premium calf leather finish, ensuring you look refined while enjoying lasting comfort.


Selecting the right dress shoes for your wedding is crucial for both style and comfort. By considering factors like style, material, comfort, fit, and matching your shoes to your suit color, you can ensure you’re ready for everything the day will bring. Visit Josephs Shoes to explore our premium collection of wedding shoes and make your wedding day even more special.