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Non-Traditional Wedding Shoes Inspiration

non traditional wedding shoe. Chartreuse shoe with pink heel and pink and green flowers

We’re wedding photographers in Florida who have always believed that your wedding day should feel exactly like you. Not just moments, but every detail—even down to your shoes! And  I get so excited when couples skip the basic & expected and pick wedding shoes that actually show off their personality.

Because yes, white satin pumps are fine. But you’re not just fine, right?

 

Why Choose Non-Traditional Wedding Shoes

Shoes are one of the easiest places to do something fun without blowing your budget (big or small). You can keep the dress or suit classic and then BAM—your shoes peek out and steal the show!

Maybe it’s a pop of color, cool texture, vintage glam, playful embroidery. It’s a tiny space to say, this is me! 

groom holding his velvet loafers from Donald Pliner with skull details

 

How They Photograph (Spoiler: They’re So Good)

Your shoes get way more camera time than you’d think. Getting ready details the morning of the wedding? Check. Peeking out from under your dress or suit? Check. Kicking them up on the dance floor at 11pm (or kicking them off)? DOUBLE check.

I’m obsessed with making sure these little choices get documented. 

brides heels sticking up in the grass after she kicked them off during her reception to dance

Some of My Favorite Non-Traditional Wedding Shoes

Here’s a few I can’t stop thinking about from some weddings (and a pair of my own shoes that I think would be FABULOUS for a garden party). Some of these we styled during the detail / getting ready part of the day just to show the intricate details of the shoes, and others are the shoes being worn by our clients at different parts of the wedding day, where the shoes totally came alive! Because it’s one thing to see them on a shelf—and another to see them carrying you across the dance floor.

These are a mix of luxury designer splurges, and some are affordable finds. To us, it’s not about the price or the designer label — it’s about picking something that feels like you and is intentional. 

Betsey Johnson Sadyy floral stilettos in chartreuse 

These are for the bride who isn’t afraid to have some fun. Chartreuse kitten heels with dainty, shimmery floral applique that feel like wearable art! They’re bold, bright, and would turn even the most classic gown into a statement, but personally, I think an over the top and unique gown deserves over the top shoes! I can really picture these being perfect for a bride wearing an intricate floral applique wedding gown or even a sleek blush pink structured dress. Definitely a contender for a bride whos the life of the party!

Betsey Johnson chartreuse floral stilettos with bold painted pattern for colorful, non-traditional wedding shoe inspiration.

Neon Cowboys clear boots that lit up with blue neon

One of my all-time favorites because it’s just so unapologetically personal! Clear boots that literally glow with blue neon lights inside—so when the dance floor hits, they transform. They’re a statement about not taking things too seriously, about throwing a party people actually remember. I love when couples make bold choices that are 100% them.

Clear bridal boots that light up with blue neon for a bold, fun, non-traditional wedding shoe statement.

Red Prada Saffiano patent leather slingback pumps

These shoes are unapologetic. Deep, fiery red with that sleek Prada silhouette that’s all clean lines and sharp angles. They’re for the bride who wants people to remember her walking down the aisle and dancing until last call. Paired with a sleek, elevated gown? Absolute perfection, no notes.

Get the Amazon version here

Red Prada stiletto heels for a bold, unapologetic, non-traditional wedding shoe choice.

Rene Caovilla rhinestone mesh boots

These might be white, but they are anything but basic. Full rhinestone mesh with some major sparkle that catches every bit of light. Made for the bride who wants something that feels fashion-forward and ready to party, while still nodding to the classic bridal palette. Trust me: they photograph like a dream.

Get the Amazon version here

Rene Caovilla rhinestone mesh bridal boots with sparkle and texture for an edgy, party-ready wedding look.

Oscar de la Renta metallic Alyssa embellished pumps

These feel like something out of an editorial spread. Shimmery metallic fabric, laser cut floral design, and a sculpted heel that feels both timeless and fashion-forward. The kind of shoe that makes you stand taller, walk slower, and know you’re the star of the show.

Get a similar shoe here on

Oscar de la Renta metallic Alyssa embellished wedding pumps with shimmering details for a couture-inspired bridal shoe look.

White Manolo Blahnik jeweled pumps

These are your classic ivory wedding pump taken to couture levels. The jeweled wing-like detail curves around the heel in a way that feels sculptural and high fashion without being too fussy. It’s understated luxury for someone who wants those little “oh wow” moments when people really look.

White Manolo Blahnik pumps with sculptural jeweled wing detail for a modern fairytale wedding vibe.

Blue Manolo Blahnik heels 

That perfect “something blue,” but elevated. These Manolos have that signature crystal buckle that photographs beautifully up close, and the rich, saturated blue adds such a sophisticated pop! It’s color that feels intentional. Every time these peeked out from under her dress, it caught your eye!

Blue Manolo Blahnik wedding heels with signature jeweled buckle, the perfect “something blue” for a modern bride.

White block heels with lime wedge design and clear heels

These are playful in the best way! White block heels with lime slice designs and a clear heel —like a vacation cocktail turned into footwear. Perfect for a garden or tropical-inspired wedding, or honestly anyone who wants their personality to shine in the details. They’re fun, a little cheeky, and guaranteed to make people ask where you got them.

White block heel wedding shoes with playful lime wedge design and clear heel detail for a tropical-inspired bridal look.

Velvet Salvatore Ferragamo loafers (I didn’t forget about the guys!)

Rich black velvet with that unmistakable Ferragamo silhouette. They’re classic but just different enough to feel special—perfect for the groom who wants to wear something he’ll actually use again but still feels elevated for the day. Velvet always photographs beautifully, adding depth and richness even in simple portraits.

Men’s velvet Salvatore Ferragamo loafers in rich navy for a luxe, non-traditional groom’s wedding shoe option.

Velvet loafers with embroidery (like these cool snakes)

These are for the groom (or honestly anyone) who wants to make a rebellious, unforgettable statement without saying a word. Deep velvet base with bright red snake embroidery that’s edgy and unexpected but still undeniably stylish. Paired with a sharp suit? It’s a look that says you’re here to have a damn good time!

Men’s velvet loafers from Steve Madden with red snake embroidery for an edgy, fashion-forward groom’s wedding shoe choice.

Saint Laurent Wyatt 30 boots

These are the boots for the groom who wants to look sharp without defaulting to boring dress shoes. Sleek, tailored leather with that slight rock-and-roll edge Saint Laurent does so well. They’re polished but still have personality—a little rebellious without trying too hard. Perfect with a modern suit or even black tie if you want to stand out without shouting. I love photographing these because they’re so subtle but say so much!

St Laurent Wyatt 30 boots that a groom wore to his wedding

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Non-Traditional Wedding Shoes

• Don’t overthink it. If you love them, that’s reason enough!!
• Think about the venue—grass, ballroom, garden path? Nobody likes sinking into the dirt or slipping on a marble floor
• Match your vibe, not just your outfit.
• Consider comfort. Or just pack a second pair for dancing like a maniac later! 
• Most importantly? Make sure they feel like you.

FAQs About Non-Traditional Wedding Shoes

Will colorful or unique shoes look weird with a white dress or suit?
Not at all. That contrast is the fun part. It says “I really intentionally thought about this”.

How do I choose the right pair?
Pick something you actually love, but still comfortable. Think vibe & venue second. Don’t buy something just because Pinterest or TikTok says so.

What if they get dirty?
Honestly? It’s a fucking shoe, its gonna get dirty. And that’s half the charm. Scuffed from dancing and celebrating!! Your story is in those marks.

Should I bring a second pair for dancing?
Highly recommend. Statement shoes can be sky-high. No shame in swapping for comfort when it’s time to rage on the dance floor!

Let’s Make It Happen!

If you’re dreaming up shoes with color, sparkle, embroidery, or just something a little unexpected, let’s make sure they get their moment! Your day deserves to feel personal and real, right down to the soles of your feet. I’m here to photograph every last bit of it, so get in touch!

Florida | New York | Europe

Effortless, colorful&

fun-as-hell wedding photography for stylish couples who know how to celebrate!

Florida | East coast | Destination

Images that bring you back to

that exact moment, like it never ended

 

 

Catherine Ann Photography are husband & wife Florida wedding photographers based in Tampa with over fifteen years of experience providing fun, documentary images with an unreplicable style for laid-back, party people!

 

catherineannphotography@gmail.com

 

Florida Wedding Photographer | Catherine Ann Photography