You're mid dance move at your friend's wedding when all of a sudden it hits you: pain — horrible, horrible pain — caused by those sky-high heels. You need a minute (or 20) to rest/ice your feet, and then you'll be back, this time rocking a pair of oversize flip-flops supplied by the bride. It's not exactly ideal for re-creating the entirety of NSYNC's "Bye Bye Bye" music video, but, sigh, do you even have a choice?
The answer, quite simply, is yes, and it all starts with the prep. You'll want to snag yourself some fancy flats, platform or caged heels that provide support, or something with a shorter heel height in general. We've found a few options ahead that are comfy enough to rock all night long, meaning you can get your early '00s Justin Timberlake on without causing major damage.
Attending a West Coast wedding? This Rebecca Minkoff heel ($195) was inspired by the laid-back attitude of Southern California.
Art-deco-inspired crystals on this flat ($185) make it anything but ordinary.
Get the height without the pain in a pair of Saint Laurent espadrille wedges ($595).
This midheel wing leather sandal from Sophia Webster ($595) adds a special touch to your outfit.
Block heels like this pastel blue one from Steve Madden ($90) can be paired with everything from skinny jeans to guest dresses.
The perfect way to add some gingham to your outfit is with these Alexandre Birman block sandals ($495).
One of Kate Middleton's favorite brands, LK Bennett ($195) offers a slingback heel you can wear from day to night.
If you're wearing a plain dress, spice it up with a pair of Gucci floral-print heels ($750).
We say these Giuseppe Zanotti embellished flats ($795) are fancy enough to wear to any black-tie event.
These Sam Edelman shoes won't be slipping off your feet ($130) thanks to the lace-up style.
The most classic shoe there is, so you can't go wrong with a pair from Christian Louboutin ($675).
The crystal-embellished trim on this Manolo Blahnik flat ($799) makes it oh so glamorous.
If you thought Ann Taylor was only a spot to buy work clothes, you haven't checked out its affordable shoe section yet. These tassel heels ($148) are perfect for weddings.
Casual wedding ceremonies call for this beaded Salvatore Ferragamo sandal ($505).
It's all about the florals on this Dolce & Gabbana slingback heel ($845).
Loeffler Randall's suede block-heel slides ($325) are the perfect accompaniment to any dress.
Tabitha Simmons's Cirrius sandals ($795) have a triple strap with scallop trimming and tassel ties.
This Rochas pump might be the prettiest brocade fabric heel ($660) we've ever seen.
If you want a translucent heel, we suggest this one from Zara ($50).
Tweed and pearl embellishments give this Tory Burch sandal ($350) a feminine flair.
Stand tall in a pair of Topshop's lava platform sandals ($85).
Chloé's leather cage sandal ($355) has a low block heel for walking (or dancing) all day long.
Looking for affordable heels? Don't forget to check out H&M's selections like this leather pair with woven cotton frayed edges ($50).
Your feet will look quite fancy with Sergio Rossi's ($875) suede jeweled sandals.
Stuart Weitzman's lace-up flat ($398) looks fancy in cobalt.
Ted Baker ($175) makes flats worthy of wearing to any wedding.
Aquazzura makes a sweet little Mary Jane pump ($725) you can't resist.
These blush Dolce Vita mules will match anything you've got ($140).
Who needs a floral dress when you have a pair of these ASOS heels ($72)?
You don't have to worry about your feet getting tired in a pair of kitten heels by The Row ($795).
For pearl-lovers, you'll be obsessed with these Missguided heels ($48).
You don't always need to rock heels for a wedding; this tropical-print Schutz mule ($170) is just fine.
A little glitter never hurts. Scoop up a pair of Jimmy Choo heels ($750).
Considering Castañer made the first wedge espadrilles for Yves Saint Laurent in the late '60s, this pair from the designer ($240) is sure to be worth investing in.
You can recognize Valentino heels ($995) anywhere thanks to the studs.
These neutral Gianvito Rossi lace-up sandals ($695) will always be in style.
You won't be complaining of backaches while wearing these H&M slingback flats ($25).
These Miu Miu sandals ($590) won't be around forever, so you best buy them now.
The flower pattern on these Sam Edelman mules ($100) draws the attention to your feet.
The unique construction of this Tibi heel ($495) has us saying "I do."