How to Dye Your Bridal Shoes

Bridal shoes are the final piece of every bride's wedding day ensemble and are no less perfect than her dress, jewelry, veil or hair. Most shoes have a factory dye that does not fade or run when wet, but is not easily changeable. Dying shoes is a specialized project best completed by dry cleaners and dying professionals. If you decide to try it on your own, follow these steps for the best results.

1. First: Buy the right type of shoes

   Certain brands of shoes are designed for dying. Those that are not are dye resistant, and do not come out the desired color. Dyeable brands include: Cole Haan, Nina, Dyeables, Touch Ups, Coloriffics, Benjamin Adams, Alisha Hill, Grace and a few others. Most, but not all dyable shoes are made of white or cream satin.

2. Second: Dye the shoes

   Dye the shoes the desired color. Never dye shoes the exact same color as the dress, this looks both fake and tacky. Instead dye the shoes one color lighter or darker than the dress. The one exception for this is bright white. Off white shoes look dirty when paired with a bright white dress.

3. Third: Coat the shoes with water repellent

   Dyed shoes are not water resistant and do bleed, and stain anything they touch. They can also bleed onto your dress if exposed to moisture. If there is any risk that your shoes can come in contact with moisture, coat them with a water repellent spray like those used to waterproof camping gear.