Cole Haan Ceci Air Rose Sling Sandal

Usually I try to alternate the things I feature on the blog to keep things interesting. For example, I don’t normally write about shoes two posts in a row. But I’m making an exception today because it’s May, and you know what that means—it’s time to get ready for those June weddings! Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, the mother of the bride, the groom, or even the mother of the flower girl, you’ll be able to read about some great accessories here on StyleCynics over the next few weeks. I probably won’t cover a bridal accessory in every single post, but at least once a week I’ll talk about something having to do with weddings. If you don’t already have your entire ensemble put together, well, you’re like just about every other person planning on attending a wedding in June. What would a wedding be without last minute planning? Or maybe you bought a pair of shoes, but it was because you got them on sale, and they’re not really your favorite part of your wedding outfit. I bet I can find something you’ll like better, and that saves you money. So fasten your seatbelt bag! We’re starting off with the most important part of the bride’s ensemble after the dress—the shoes. Take a look at this gorgeous Cole Haan Ceci Air Rose Sling Sandal.

The Ceci is the ultimate in femininity. It wraps around the outside of the foot in a sweeping silhouette, and an upper made of satin. From the vamp to the ankle, the sandal is adorned with satin roses because we all know you can’t have too many flowers at a wedding, right? Ok, yes you can. Especially if you’re getting married outdoors. The last thing you need on your big day is a swarm of bees crashing the party. The Ceci also has a peep toe to show off your perfect bridal pedi. Just don’t get a French pedi—that just looks weird. No, seriously. It makes your toes look like fingers, and it creeps me out. Stick to a pale pink or nude. On the inside of the ankle strap is an elasticized panel for fit and give when you’re walking down the aisle. Or dancing down the aisle, if that’s what you decide to do. The sole is leather, and the heel is four inches high, so you shouldn’t have to worry about your dress dragging along the ground. But the best part? There’s a reason this shoe is called the Air Rose Sling Sandal. It contains Nike Air technology, a cushioning that reduces shock and distributes pressure as you walk. You won’t need to change out of these shoes after the ceremony, and you’ll be able to dance in them at the reception. The Ceci is $428 at Endless.com.

Budget Saving Alternative 1

Now, if you’re paying for your wedding yourself, that may be a little steep. Although it may help you cut down on eating before the wedding so you can fit into your dress. Still, you probably want to save money for the honeymoon, right? So opt for the Nina Ulexa Sling Sandal instead. It has the same sweeping, feminine silhouette, but instead of flowers, it’s a little more contemporary with understated satin ruffles lining the side strap. The rest of the upper is also satin, and it’s a true sandal with a single strap at the vamp. The back of the ankle strap also has a bit of elastic for comfort and fit, and the four-inch heel is covered in satin. The lining and sole are leather, so scuff it up a little before you walk down the aisle. You don’t want to end up on some wedding bloopers show, do you? Or maybe you do because if you win the big prize, that would pay for the honeymoon, wouldn’t it? The Ulexa is just $89.95 at Zappos.com.

Budget Saving Alternative 2

If you’re not crazy about flowers or the ruffles decorating your shoes, go for something simpler like the Touch Ups Trista Dyeable Slide. White is still the traditional bridal color in the United States, but more and more, brides are departing from tradition and getting a little creative with their color schemes. A dyeable shoe will give you a lot of freedom in that respect. You can also have all the bridesmaids wear the same shoe, and just dye theirs to match their dresses. It will add some uniformity to the wedding party fashion. The Trista’s upper is strappy and satin, with an adjustable ankle strap for a custom fit. The open toe makes it a perfect summer wedding shoe, and the wider three-inch heel will give you some stability. This is great if you get married outdoors and have to walk in grass. A spiky stiletto heel will sink right into the ground without something to protect it. The sole is leather, so watch the slipperiness until it’s broken in. In fact, don’t wait until the day of the wedding to put on your new shoes. Wear them a couple of times around the house to break them in so you can be more comfortable, and avoid blisters on the big day. If the shoes are a little tight, wear them over a pair of light socks to stretch them out a bit. The Trista is also on sale, which is all the more reason to get them for the entire wedding party! They’re normally $49.95, but you can get them now for just $27.47 at Endless.com. Go! Now!