A lot goes into putting together even the simplest of weddings. There are decorations, flowers, food, and of course, the bride’s attire. Early in the planning process (about 6-9 months before the wedding day) the bride usually selects her dress, veil, and shoes. When the wedding is going to take place on a beach, choosing the right shoes to complement the wedding dress may seem a difficult task at first. Fortunately, trends in bridal sandals offer today’s beach bride a wide selection of options.

Weddings are steeped in tradition; however, acceptable wedding attire has gotten away from the Victorian-inspired white dress and white shoes. The ever-increasing number of beach weddings is a sign that times have changed. Bridal beach sandals have two main requirements: style and comfort (not necessarily in that order).

Elegant Flip Flops and More

If the wedding will take place on the sand, flip flop sandals are a good choice. If you’re trying to figure out how you’re going to match your elegant bridal gown to a pair of rubber flip flops-don’t worry. Gone are the days of plain beach flip flop sandals being the only footwear choice for beach weddings. Beach brides of today can choose from a wide selection of flip flop dress sandals that go beyond the thin, rubber-soled styles of old. A chic pair of silver dress sandals, such as those designed by Steve Madden, are made to complement the elegant bridal dress that is typically worn on the beach.

White high heels with a satin finish were at one time the standard accessories for a wedding gown. While shiny white shoes are still popular, dress sandals with shimmering rhinestones, luxurious suede, bold metallics, and unique ankle strappings are becoming more than trendy fashion ideas in wedding attire.

While the bride is typically the focal point of a wedding, the groom’s attire should complement the bride. Flip flop dress sandals for men are without the adornment found on sandals for women, but are nevertheless suitable for a beach wedding. Men’s flip flop dress sandals are typically available in white and earthy colors, such as tan, black, and dark brown.

Children are the little darlings of the wedding ensemble and deserve appealing footwear. Stride Rite offers stylish dress sandals for kids that include buckles and padding that protect their feet in unstable beach sand. Michael Kors dress sandals for kids are a bit more daring and suitable for older children.

Unless you are an inveterate socialite with mounds of dressy shoes for special occasions, there’s a good chance that an invitation to a swanky affair will send you in a bit of a frenzy over what to wear. You are not alone. Many women worry in these situations because it’s important to put together a complete ensemble. Once you locate the perfect dress for the occasion, there is the big question of what shoes to wear. One point you can settle on right away is that the shoes must have glam appeal. When you think of glamour, I’m sure you can’t help but imagine any number of red carpet celebrity award ceremonies and the celebrated catwalk. What footwear is worn more often at these events? Sandals.

A pair of $2 million diamond-studded, silver dress sandals by designer Stuart Weitzman may appeal to the celebrity pocketbook, but you don’t have to feel compelled to buy expensive footwear to look sensational at your special event. In fact, many of the styles of sandals that are seen on the feet of celebrities are affordable and accessible for hardworking women interested in a glamorous evening look.

The Perfect Sandals

With all the types of sandals on the market, it’s surprising that one style stands out as being worn more often than any other type of shoe at posh celebrity events-strappy sandals. The one key element of strappy sandals that make them so popular is their versatility. These sandals can complement just about any type of outfit. At the 2007 American Music Awards, multi-award winner Carrie Underwood chose to mate her sophisticated Georges Chakra dress with a pair of sandals complete with ankle straps. Carrie undoubtedly paid a pretty penny for her fancy footwear. A pair of silver dress sandals like the Anne Klein ankle strap thong sandals can offer you a similar elegant appeal at half the cost.

The good news about elegance is that it doesn’t have to mean trendy. Classic black strappy sandals, such as those by Manolo Blahnik are also a big hit with celebrities out on the town. While many stars choose spectacular (and costly) one-night wonders, many desire shoes that they can wear to other functions. The Dallae black dress sandals by Nine West have the long-lasting appeal of the Manolo Blahnik and provide a look that stands out from the crowd.

Of course, you don’t have to wear what someone considers fashion. Finding the perfect sandals can be as simple as considering your personality. Are you feisty and flamboyant? Slip on a pair of red dress sandals by Franco Sarto Nobility and you’re sure to feel like a celebrity. Maybe you’re the quiet silent type. If so, a gorgeous pair of bronze dress sandals, such as Calvin Klein’s Rachel sandals may suit you just fine.

Finalizing Your Look

So, you’ve found the perfect outfit and sandals for your special occasion. Don’t forget to finalize your look. If your choice for the evening is a pair of Anne Klein gold dress sandals, a matching handbag is a definite must. Another way to ensure your shoes stand out is to wear accessories that complement the detail of your sandals. A pair of white dress sandals by Bandolino with jewels for a t-strap are screaming for matching jewelry. Whatever you decide to use to complete your outfit, make sure you keep it tasteful so the fashion police don’t give you a ticket!