One of my favorite sections of fabhousewife.com is the Blissfully Bridal section because, “no one knows weddings better than brides who’ve been there.” Well, last week, I received an email from a Fab Housewife-to-be, requesting some advice on her big day:

It’s an excellent question Hilary, and here’s my take on it: Blue shoes, or any accent shoe on your wedding day, is a really hot trend right now. My only concern with trends is that they go in an out so quickly, and you run the risk of hating that choice down the road. That being said, if you want blue shoes, it’s your wedding gosh darn it, so you should have blue shoes!!! And while your groom’s thoughts are certainly important, often times men just don’t get it when it comes to fashion and coordinating. Generally speaking, anything out of the ordinary, is difficult for men to visualize. One of the biggest regrets I have in planning my wedding was worrying too much about what my groom would think. The fact is, my groom, and hopefully every other groom, loves everything about his bride, including her style and taste. If you love it, I say go for it!

Now, back to those shoes… to avoid being overly trendy and the subsequent post-wedding day regret, choose a shoe that’s not too over the top. The trick is to keep the hue subtle, and the style classic. Here are some examples of blue-shoed brides who got it right:

 

For my own vintage-themed wedding, I chose a pair of polka dot shoes for my bridesmaids, and eventually decided I wanted to wear them too. The shoes were subtle and classic, and I have no regrets…at least not yet!

Still not sure if blue shoes are right for you? Well, here are some more subtle ways to incorporate the traditional color into your own wedding:

Garters

Forever Lace Garter by Florrie Mitton Couture, $85

Eden Lace Garter by Florrie Mitton Couture, $78

Regal Lace Garter by The Garter Lady, $59

Handkerchiefs

Lace personalized Handkerchief by Hip Handbags, $17.99

Something Blue Bridal Monogrammed Handkerchief by Heather Strickland, $18

Note: For my “something old,” my mom made me a handkerchief from pieces of both her and my grandmother’s wedding gowns. If you like this idea, you could also consider adding a simple monogram or other embroidery in blue to create a unique old and blue duo.

Jewels

Serenity – Blue Swarovski Elements Crystals and Pearls with Freshwater Pearls Earrings, $22

Swarovski Elements Crystals and Crystal Pearls Silver Plated Combs, $12

Create a custom-designed piece at Everything Angelic, where you can add touches of blue to anything from necklaces, to earings, bracelets and hair accessories. I wore the Mimi Bracelet, $120 (above) on my wedding day, along with a customized version of the Isda Necklace. I also specially customized the Eika II necklace for my bridesmaids!

Just for you, Hilary (since you also mentioned incorporating the Fluer-de-Lis in your wedding), 14K white gold pendant and chain, $290.

Bouquet Adornments

Tie your boquet with a lovely satin bow, as pictured here via Hey Gorgeous.

 

Bouquet charms tied with a blue bow from Your Charmed Wedding, prices vary, most under $10

Custom Tags

Ask your alterations if they can make you a blue monogrammed tag, or order a custom-made tag and have your seamstress sew it inside your gown. Tags above by Michael Angela, $25.

Note: I read that Kate Middleton’s something blue was NOT the gorgeous Princess Diana engagement ring, but a small blue bow sewn on the inside of her gown.

Lingerie

Perhaps your something blue could also be a sexy secret beneath your gown.

Simone Perele Bridal Lingerie

Amour Lace Bowtied bra and thong from BHLDN, $84 & $64

Balconet Push-up bra and lace bikini from Victoria’s Secret, $39.50 & $14.50

 

Soulful Soles

Rhinestone “I do” shoe apliques are another very popular “something blue” idea, and it’s a very inexpensive solution, as well. This set is $13 from Mon Amour Boutique. As for my thoughts- I’m not so sure I’m a big fan. The applique seems too trendy for me, and too easy to end up with a “Do I” situation. That could be embarrassing!

I am ALL ABOUT this one, though! Inspired by the (now discontinued) Louboutin bridal shoe, some brides are opting to have their soles dyed, by Master Cobbler. Photo via Ultimate Bridal Mag.

Well Hil, I hope this helps! If anyone else has any ideas, or if you’d like to share what you did for your something blue, leave your comments below!

Craving more wedding ideas?  Check out all of our inspiration for brides-to-be in our section Blissfully Bridal