I plan to pay for the bridesmaids dresses myself, but I'm wondering how much is appropriate to ask them to pay for when it comes to shoes. I was just in a wedding in heels all day and decided that's not for me. I've been toying with the idea of cowboy/western boots for bridesmaids (especially since we're considering October and more rustic venues where heels would be a pain), but I know some pairs can cost more than dresses. I don't know that I can afford paying for boots and dresses for everyone, plus I'd like them to be able to have some flexibility with design and such for the shoes.
Is it appropriate to ask bridesmaids to pay for such a big expense themselves, or should I pony up or ditch the idea?