Shoe woes

I just met up with Germs, one of my friends from church. There is nothing icky about her despite what her name infers; it is simply short for Germaine. ;) She is getting married soon but her older sister, Fiona, is getting married sooner - this December!

Fiona has entrusted this big responsibility to Germs, and look to her to make the big day a success. It is rather stressful because of the time constraints as well as many other important and nitty-gritty issues. Venue has yet to be booked, and gown not yet chosen!

Germs and I were discussing about how her sister needed a pair of flat bridal shoes because she is almost as tall as her husband-to-be and has no desire to tower over her husband on her wedding day. That was when the lightbulb lighted up.

We all know that bridal shoes with heels are much easier to find than flats and with such a short time to find a pair of ideal bridal FLATS, any brides-to-be will feel a certain amount of anxiety. Fret not, tall brides, I am about to share with you an idea.

I was discussing with Germs the possibility of buying a pair of PLAIN flats. This will give the flexibility of matching the bridal shoes to your gown or flower/colour theme. You will need:


1) A pair of plain flats
2) craft glue or fabric glue that dries clear
3) Embellishments (for example):
   - ribbons (white or to match your colour theme)
   - lace (plain or already beaded)
   - rhinestones, beads or sequins
   - charms
   - silk/cloth flowers (to match your floral theme or hand bouquet)

Last but not least,
4) A touch of creativity, fun and humour.

Here are some examples that I found on the internet. They could very well have been manufactured but I am just trying to give a rough idea here on how to turn plain shoes to a unique pair of wedding shoes:

Using lace, rhinestones and ribbons:

A similar look can be achieved by using crocheted placemats or tablecloth, trimming it and using a good craft glue that is waterproof and dries clear, then adding some rhinestones and ribbons to finish the look. 

The rhinestones/glittering sand help the shoes to stand out but the lace ribbon balances the whole look by softening it. It's chic and girly at the same time.

Using silk flowers or floral shoe clips:

A similar effect can be done by using either floral shoe clips or desired silk flowers to stick on a pair of plain heels. As for the rhinestones, it can be achieved, with some meticulous hard work. Lace can be used instead of rhinestones. Lace compliments the flowers very well.

a simple pair of sateen peep-toes are instantly transformed with the clever use of some pearl strings and chiffon flowers

The lace on its own is good enough, but shoe clips, silk flowers, ribbons can be added according to your preferences:

It will not take a lot of your time, at most a day to scout for materials and a day to do it. It depends on how resourceful or creative you can get. For example, if budget is an issue, some of the lace placemats are rather intricate and cheap (I got mine at SGD$2=USD$1.30). That can work well as an alternative for lace! ;)

Unfortunately, I have no personal samples to show at the moment. I have just volunteered myself for Fiona's bridal flats! If she agrees to it, I will have something to show soon! Keep checking in!