White pumps are lovely, but brides in 2026 will be making their way down the aisle in these six surprising shoe trends.
Anny Choi is an editor in residence at Who What Wear, a stylist, a creative brand consultant, and the founder of the bridal styling studio Anny Choi Brides. With over seven years of experience styling brides, she has witnessed numerous trends come and go. There was a summer where every bride chose a romantic all-over lace gown, followed by a season that favored modern drop waists. However, one aspect remained unchanged: brides consistently preferred classic wedding-day shoes. Think of Manolo Blahnik's satin Carolyne pumps or the iconic Jimmy Choo block-heel sandals.
Jump to 2025, and brides are now ready to take fashion risks. As weddings vary in style—from intimate dinners after city hall to quirky Vegas elopements—bridal wardrobes and accessories are changing just as rapidly. Some brides are even reversing the traditional process, selecting their primary accessory first and designing the entire outfit around it. These fashion-forward brides are allowing statement pieces to be the focal point, tailoring their white dresses to enhance them.
As showcased on Dior's resort 2026 runway, bridal boots are poised to make a significant impact in 2026. Comfort is also critical, contributing to the resurgence of wedges. While established brands like Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo continue to present their classic designs, they are also introducing playful seasonal collections, exemplified by Manolo's latest Marie Antoinette–inspired line.
From trendy shoes that brides will incorporate into various wedding weekend outfits to the rise of reliable non-white neutrals, here are the six unexpected shoe trends that 2026 brides will be sporting as they walk down the aisle.
Bridal Boots: Whether you're planning a Western-themed wedding that calls for cowboy boots peeping out from under your dress or a stylish city hall ceremony with a chic mini, bridal boots are set to be a standout trend in 2026.
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Dior
Naughtily-D Heeled Ankle Boots
Danielle Frankel
Ida Heels
Miron Crosby
The Wedding Boot
Flats Over Heels: An increasing number of brides are prioritizing comfort over painful heels, but that doesn't come at the expense of style. Enter elegant bridal flats, which offer the same level of sophistication and character as statement shoes, allowing you to transition smoothly from the aisle to the dance floor.
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Simone Rocha x Crocs
Trailbreak 2 Sneakers
Loeffler Randall
Emery Blush/Crystal Ballet Flats
Manolo Blahnik
Hangrilla Light Cream Cotton Espadrilles
GABRIELA HEARST
Ziva Leather and Embroidered Tulle Point-Toe Flats
Maximalist Attitude: More is more! Start with the shoes. Jimmy Choo's ribbon-adorned sandals provide an edgy touch to a pristine white dress, while Manolo Blahnik's Marie Antoinette–inspired mules bring dramatic flair to a ball-gown silhouette. The best part? When hems lift for the after-party, your shoes will take center stage.
Shop Maximalist Bridal Shoes
Jimmy Choo
Lula 100 Metallic Leather Sandals
Roger Vivier
Rose Vivier 100 Floral Satin Pumps
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Pleneuf 90 Velvet-Trimmed Silk-Satin Mules
Gianvito Rossi
Jenny Shearling-Trimmed Patent Leather Pumps
The It Shoes of the Moment: For all the stylish brides, purchasing for your wedding doesn't mean you have to give up your favorite designer brands. Consider your special day the perfect opportunity to invest in those Prada runway pumps or the beautiful Valentino heels you've been admiring. Not only will they enhance your bridal ensemble, but you'll also wear them far more than plain white satin pumps.
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Prada
Antiqued Leather Pumps
Bottega Veneta
Sofia Pump in Sea Salt/Crystal
Valentino Garavani
Foliefoliage Pumps in Abrasive Calfskin and Lace
Gucci
GG Crystal Slingback Pumps
Wedges Are Back: For brides getting married on grass or uneven surfaces but still wishing for some height, look at newly redesigned wedges. Forget about cork—wedges are now sleeker and ideal for navigating whatever challenges your wedding day presents.
Shop Bridal Wedges
Aquazzura
Tati 85 Wedge Sandals
Larroudé
Yves Wedges in Ivory Leather
Alaïa
Satin Point-Toe Wedge Mules
Toteme
Sharp Leather Wedge Pumps
New Neutrals: Say goodbye to matching white pumps and welcome one of the season's fresh neutrals. Blush is a soft, unexpected accent against a white gown and has been a color of choice this season. Metallic shades are always a reliable option for bridal wear, or you could go for skin-ton
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White pumps are lovely, but brides in 2026 will be making their way down the aisle in these six surprising shoe trends.
Bridal stylist Anny Choi is highlighting the shoe trends preferred by trendy brides.
