Arabella vs Hetty Wedding Shoes: Which Style Suits You?

By Harriet Wilde: Designer Wedding Shoes - Wedding Shoes UK ... | Published: 2026-10-15

Category: Comparisons

Compare Arabella and Hetty wedding shoes on heel height, fit and detachable bows, so you can choose the right pair for your day and wear it again.

Quick Answer

Choose Arabella if you want a secure, closed-back sandal with a high block heel and removable organza bows, ideal for long wear and a supportive feel. Choose Hetty if you prefer a lower, mid block heel or need a wide fit, with a detachable bow on a shoe clip and a rounded toe for extra comfort. Both are designed to be worn again after the wedding.

Heel Height and Stability: High Block vs Mid Block

The Arabella Block Organza Bow sits on a high block heel, while the Arabella Block Mid Ivory offers a mid block heel. The Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide uses a 6cm (2.5 inch) mid block heel, and the Hetty Bow is approximately 9cm (3.5 inches). A lower heel generally means less strain on your feet and more stability, which can help if you are standing for long periods. The Arabella styles fasten with a buckle on the foot and a crossed strap, plus a closed back for support. The Hetty styles use an ankle strap for security. If you are not used to high heels, the mid block options are a safer bet.

Detachable Bows: Organza vs Shoe Clips

Arabella features detachable organza bows, so you can wear the shoes with or without them. Hetty also has a detachable bow, but it is attached via a shoe clip. This difference matters for styling: organza bows are lightweight and airy, while shoe clips can be swapped between shoes. If you want to change your look from ceremony to reception, both allow that, but consider how the bow attaches and whether you prefer a clip-on or a tie-on style. Note that the Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide comes with a detachable bow on a shoe clip as well.

Fit and Sizing: Standard vs Wide

The Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide is designed for a wide fit (E width), making it a good choice if you usually find standard shoes too narrow. Arabella styles are available in standard sizes UK2-UK8, but the Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide specifically accommodates wider feet. If you have a wider foot, the Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide could be more comfortable. For other widths, check the individual product pages for sizing details. Always measure your feet and compare to the brand's size chart.

Materials and Wear-Again Potential

Arabella Block Mid Ivory is made from ivory silk satin and can be dyed to any colour after your wedding, extending its life. Hetty Bow is crafted in Spain using Italian ivory silk satin, forest green, bordo velvet, and misty blue suede, all with full leather lining and a leather sole. These natural materials offer breathability and comfort. The Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide is in soft misty blue suede leather. If you plan to dye your shoes, satin is often more suitable than suede. Both brands design their shoes to be worn again, so consider your post-wedding wardrobe when choosing.

Trade-offs to Weigh Up

Heel height vs stability: Arabella high block gives you lift with a supportive closed back; Hetty mid block (6cm) is lower and easier on your feet for all-day wear. If you want height without sacrificing stability, Arabella high block is a good middle ground. For maximum comfort, choose the mid block.
Bow attachment vs versatility: Arabella's organza bows are detachable; Hetty's bows are on shoe clips. Both let you wear with or without, but clips can be moved to other shoes. If you like to swap accessories, Hetty's clip-on bows offer more flexibility. If you prefer a lighter, airy look, Arabella's organza bows are ideal.
Standard vs wide fit: Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide is specifically E width; Arabella comes in standard sizes UK2-UK8. Wider feet will likely find Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide more comfortable. If you have standard width, either style could work.
Dyeable satin vs suede: Arabella Block Mid Ivory in satin can be dyed; Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide is suede, which is harder to dye. If you plan to change the colour after the wedding, choose the satin Arabella. If you love the misty blue suede as is, Hetty is a great pick.

Key Facts at a Glance

Arabella Block Organza Bow: Arabella Block Organza Bow: ivory silk satin bridal platform sandal on a high block heel, buckle and crossed strap, closed back for support, detachable organza bows, sizes UK2-UK8. Secure fastening and supportive back make it a stable choice for long wear, and the removable bows let you change your look.
Hetty Bow: Hetty Bow: high heeled block wedding shoe with bows, crafted in Spain using Italian ivory silk satin, forest green, bordo velvet and misty blue suede, full leather lining, padding under the foot, leather sole, heel approx. 9cm (3.5 inches), ankle straps, bows on shoe clips. Ankle straps and padding add comfort and security, while the choice of materials and colours lets you match your wedding palette.
Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide: Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide: wide fit (E width) on a mid block heel (6cm, 2.5 inches) with rounded toe, ankle strap, detachable bow on shoe clips, soft misty blue suede leather, full leather lining. Lower heel and wide fit suit those who prioritise comfort and stability, and the detachable bow adds versatility.
Arabella Block Mid Ivory: Arabella Block Mid Ivory: mid block heel ivory silk satin bridal platform sandal, buckle and crossed strap, closed back, can be dyed to any colour. A lower heel with the same secure design, and dyeable satin means you can wear it again in a new colour.

Which Should You Choose?

Best for

Brides who want a secure, closed-back sandal with a high block heel and removable organza bows (Arabella Block Organza Bow).
Those who prefer a mid block heel and need a wide fit (Hetty Mid Bow Blue Wide).
Anyone planning to dye their shoes after the wedding (Arabella Block Mid Ivory in dyeable satin).
Brides who want a choice of colours and materials, including velvet and suede (Hetty Bow).

Not for

If you need a very low heel, neither style is flat; consider a lower heel option.
If you dislike ankle straps, Arabella's buckle and crossed strap might suit you better than Hetty's ankle strap.
If you want a shoe that is not dyeable, avoid the satin Arabella styles if you plan to dye them.