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To Dye For
In order to get a perfect match, most brides-to-be buy dyeable white shoes. If you choose to go this route, take along a swatch of fabric that matches your gown exactly. The shoe store will probably be able to get your shoes dyed for you; if not, consult your local shoe repair shop. Make certain the shop has plenty of experience in the dyeing process.
Let the establishment know what type of lighting you will have at your ceremony and reception; dyed colors can vary depending upon the lighting. (See Dyeable Wedding Shoes for more info.)
An Exact Match
You can also purchase pre-dyed shoes; these are less likely to show color variations in your wedding photographs. The trick here is that you will need to find a shoe that is pre-dyed in a very close match to your gown. Again, bring along a fabric swatch. You don't want to try to rely on memory for this very important purchase.
Keep it Clean
Ivory wedding footwear will obviously be prone to staining. Dyed shoes can also "bleed" when exposed to moisture, forming spots or runny areas. Ask to have your shoe fabric sealed after it is dyed. This will help prevent running and will also be easier to spot-clean.
Gorgeous Additions
You can add details to your shoes in order to achieve a dressier look. For instance, clip-on rhinestone or faux pearl decorations look as if they are part of the shoe, but can be removed and used with any footwear later.
A more subtle and very classy look is ivory-on-ivory embroidery. Get this type of shoe in a pre-dyed style, as the embroidery and fabric are made of different materials and might not match if you attempt to dye them.
Ivory sandals with gorgeous gold buckles on the sides or clear tops are a trendy, fun and "princess"-like look.
Different Fabrics
You can get very different effects depending upon what type of fabric you choose for your wedding footwear.
Satin is smooth and shiny. It reflects light, so take that into consideration when selecting your color. If your dress is made of shiny material, look for a satin shoe.
Crepe has a matte (non-shiny) appearance. Match a crepe shoe to a crepe or chiffon wedding gown.
Color Matching
Be aware that no matter how carefully you choose a dyer or how critically you eyeball a pre-dyed shoe in the store, you probably won't get a perfect match. Come as close as possible, but be realistic. The only way to get identical colors for your gown and shoe is to buy them together from the same collection, in the same fabric. This can be done -- but it isn't usually necessary. Your shoes and gown are expected to offer a very slight variation, which is easier on your guests' eyes than one solid wall of color.
Take along some friends when you go wedding shoe shopping. Your idea of ivory may be different from the shoe store's, and the difference in fabrics between your swatch and the shoe can be confusing. Get a second or even third opinion before buying. You'll be glad you took the time to select the right match for your gorgeous gown.