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Consignment Shops
The first place to look for cheap shoes is your local consignment (thrift) shop. Many thrifty brides sell their wedding shoes, veils and other accessories after the wedding. Be the thrifty bride that snatches them up.
Department Stores
Department stores, while not necessarily cheap, usually aren't budget busting, either. Find a pair of plain white satin pumps and add a decorative clip. You can find clips and other shoe decorations at your local shoe store.
Be sure to check out the discount rack. You can also ask to be put on the store's mailing list to find out when clearance and other sales will be taking place.
Prom Shoes
Prom season is a great time to shop for shoes. Most shoe stores will carry fancier shoes during that time which can work just as well for your wedding. Start your shoe shopping in March to take advantage of this season, which ends around mid-June.
"Penny" Shoppers
"Penny" shopper booklets, which are local and usually come through the mail, can offer fabulous finds. Leaf through your local circular to see if anyone has what you're looking for.
The Internet
Internet auctions are another easy option for discount footwear. But be savvy; not every internet auction ends up being a deal. Always check the shipping costs before bidding, lest you be the lucky winner of a $15 pair of shoes -- and $20 express shipping.
You can also do a general internet search. Terms to search under include "discount shoes," "cheap wedding shoes" and "inexpensive footwear." Again, if you go this route, be sure to figure in shipping before buying.
The Classifieds
Most newspapers offer an "Under $100" category in the Classifieds section. You'll be surprised what sort of finds wind up here. Find out what days your newspaper updates its classifieds (most will be two weekdays, plus Sunday) and be the first to make the call. Don't bother subscribing to the paper for this purpose; unless it's local with a very small circulation, almost every paper posts its Classifieds section online.
Borrow From a Friend
Of course, the cheapest option is free! If a friend has recently gotten married, ask whether she's willing to loan you her shoes. If she is, take extra care while wearing them, and return them in at least as clean condition as you received them.
Shoe Tips
- Choose dyeable fabric if you're wearing any color but white for your dress.
- Buy a plain shoe and add a decorative rhinestone shoe clip.
- Take along a swatch of your wedding dress fabric with you if possible. You'll get a closer match than if you eyeball the shoes alone.
- Make sure the shoe fits. A shoe that's too small or too large won't end up being a bargain when you trip during the processional.
- After the wedding, sell your shoes to a consignment shop or on the internet to get a return on your investment.
Share these ideas with friends who are also tying the knot. They'll be grateful for the advice, and you'll all save a bundle for your special day.