By Renae Moore

Barefoot beach style weddings are a popular trend, however many brides lust for something special on their feet or toes to complete the wedding outfit. Barefoot jewellery provides a visual delight combined with the priceless comfort and romance of a barefoot walk down a sand aisle.

Off the rack barefoot jewellery ranges from minimal to intricate, providing varying foot coverage. However, given that this is one of the only times in life you will wear such exquisite footwear; why not have your barefoot jewellery custom designed to match your gown or accessories. Most dress makers will be happy to give you an extra piece of lace from your gown to be made into barefoot jewellery by a milliner. Leanne from Cailin Alainn has created numerous bespoke pieces for brides looking for a special touch on their tootsies.

Simple barefoot jewellery is relatively easy to make, so we have created a how to guide for those willing to give it a shot.

Choosing what materials to use:
Ask your dressmaker for an extra piece of lace from your gown. If this isn’t an option, visit your local fabric store, vintage store or even thrift shop. Vintage lace dresses, doilies or even tablecloths can be turned into gorgeous footwear with a bit of imagination. Consider what details are featured in your gown. Is it embellished with lace, pearls, diamantes or jewels? You may wish to replicate this theme through your choice of barefoot jewellery. We have chosen to use beads, this may be an option for you if your dress contains beading detail. Ask your dressmaker for some excess beads or visit a craft store to find a suitable match.

Step 1:
Take a length of string and place it around the back of your chosen toe. This may be your second or third toe depending on what you find more comfortable. Bring the string up to about your knee to find an appropriate length to cut.

Step 2:
Thread your beads onto your string allowing them to sit in the middle of the string until you have threaded roughly the amount of beads you will need to cover a loop around your toe.

Step 3:
Place the string line of beads around your toe bringing the two ends together on the top.

Step 4:
Thread a bead onto both pieces of string at once to form a loop.

Step 5:
You may choose to continue threading onto both pieces of string to create a single beaded line on the top of your foot or you can alternate between the single line and separating the pieces of string and threading them individually to create a different look.

Step 6:
If you have chosen to alternate, ensure that once you reach the top of your ankle you once again thread at least one bead onto both pieces of string to secure the line before separating it to form the anklet.

Step 7:
Separate the two pieces of string and thread them individually until you have covered the length around your ankle.

Step 8:
You can now attach a clasp to each end allowing you to secure your foot jewellery.

Step 9:
Go for a walk and if your anklet is too tight or loose adjust it before securing the clasp with knots and trimming the excess.