Attach Bow Shoe Clips and Ankle Straps
By Harriet Wilde: Designer Wedding Shoes - Wedding Shoes UK ... | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to attach bow shoe clips and ankle straps to your wedding shoes. Step-by-step guide with tips for a secure, comfortable fit.
Quick answer
Slide the metal clip of bow shoe clips over the edge of your shoe's toe or side, then press the prongs down. For ankle straps, wrap the strap around your ankle, thread the buckle through the desired hole, and tuck the loose end under the strap.
Before you start: check your shoe design
Bow shoe clips work best on shoes with a visible seam or edge at the toe or side — think pumps, courts, or block heels. If your shoe has a pointed toe with no lip, the clip may not grip securely. Ankle straps are more forgiving but require a buckle or loop system; ensure your shoe has a corresponding anchor point (like a loop or a buckle hole) for the strap to fasten.
How to attach bow shoe clips and ankle straps
- Attach bow shoe clips: Hold the clip open by pressing the prongs apart. Slide the metal clip over the edge of your shoe where you want it — typically at the toe or side. Release the prongs so they grip the shoe material. Gently tug to confirm it's secure. Common mistake: placing the clip too close to the sole where the shoe curve makes it pop off. Position it on a flat area near the toe.
- Put on ankle straps: Slip the strap around your ankle with the buckle facing outward. Thread the strap through the buckle, then pull it to your desired tightness — not too loose that it slides, not so tight it digs in. Tuck the loose end under the strap against your skin to keep it neat. Checkpoint: walk a few steps and adjust. Straps that are too tight can cause blisters; too loose may catch on the other shoe.
- Secure both accessories together (optional): If you're wearing both bow clips and ankle straps, attach the clips first, then put on the straps. The strap can sit over or under the clip — just ensure the clip isn't compressed by the strap's pressure. Common mistake: the strap pressing on the clip prongs can loosen the grip. Leave a small gap between them on the shoe edge.
Products that help
- Bow Shoe Clips Forest Green: Bow Shoe Clips Forest Green are crafted in forest green velvet to match the shoes. The velvet material matches the shoe fabric, so the clip blends in and doesn't look like an add-on.
Bow Shoe Clips Forest Green - Ankle Straps (Wide): Ankle Straps (Wide) are velvet straps designed to pair with Hetty Forest Green block heel wedding shoes, available in Ivory or Blue. The wide strap provides more surface area for a secure fit, reducing the risk of slipping during wear.
Ankle Straps (Wide)
