The 15 Most Comfortable (and Stylish) Shoes for the Workplace
Your feet will thank you.
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The love-hate relationship with uncomfortable shoes must come to an end. Between the pinchingblistersand endlessly replacing that one bandage on the back of your heelwhy do we put up with it? It’s like a toxic ex. And when it comes to a 9-to-5no one has time to put up with this complicated love affair. For commuting or coffee runsfinding comfortable work shoes that don’t compromise on is vitally important. It’s also a tall orderbut don’t lose hope yet. From metallic sneakers to mary jane flatsI’ve rounded up the best picks of the season so you don’t have to.
I couldn’t have done it without a little help from an expertso I tapped Melinda RobertsonCEO of Scanlan Theodore Americaswho knows a thing or two about building a brand that dominates workwear. This seasonRobertson is loving pointed toesslingbacksupscale sneakersand sleek sandals. She calls this“the perfect assortment for a polished and versatile work shoe wardrobe.” Regarding versatilityRobertson recommends looking for workplace shoes that allow easy movement throughout your day. For examplekitten or block heels tend to be a better choice than stilettos. “Bonus points if a pair can take you from desk to dinner with ease!,” she says.
The time has come to break up with uncomfortable shoes for good. Your job is painful enough as it is. Read on for 15 pairs of comfortable work shoes you’re sure to fall in love with.
Flats have made a huge comeback this seasonand this Freda Salvador pick proves exactly why. These shoes go with just about anythingand the woven detail adds a little something to take your look up a notch.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: BlueBrownBlack
Customer review: “I love these. They’re so versatileand they’re breaking in really nicely. I own probably 15 pairs of Fredas and these are among my favorites.”
Pros
- Trendy
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Leather may crease
The metallic trend is still going strongand I’m not angry about it. This sneaker is perfect for a more casual workplace look and will double as a fun weekend option.
Sizes: 35-41
Colors: 22 options
Customer review: “I’ve been looking for the longest time for silver metallic shoes and immediately purchased these. For a leather shoethey are extremely comfortable to the point where I walked miles in them and never felt any discomfort.”
As a proud owner of these gorgeous loafersI can’t say enough good things about them. I constantly find myself reaching for them because they go with anything I throw on—jeansslacksdressesyou name it. A forever staple in my wardrobe.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: BlackRed
Customer review: “Awesome shoes first off. I use them for workon my feet all dayand they are comfortable.”
Chic? Check. Comfy? Double check. Only $63? I’m sold.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: 20 options
Customer review: “Surprisingly very comfortable. These heels have soft padding in the sole of the shoe near the toes. Perfect heel size and easy to walk in.”
If you want the designer look without paying for itthese Jeffery Campbell flats are for you. The silhouette is simple without being boring. These are perfect if your leans understated.
Sizes: 6-10
Colors: BeigeNavySilverBlack
Customer review: “So soft and comfortable!!!”
Yves Saint Laurent Cherish Leopard Slingback Pumps
Pros
- Trendy
- Designer quality
Cons
- Pricey
How could I not throw a cheetah print YSL slingback in the mix? Animal print is here to stayand I simply can’t think of a more gorgeous shoe to keep the trend alive.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Multi
Reformation Onya Ankle Boot
Pros
- Low heel
- High-quality leather
- Versatile
Cons
- Better for fall and winter seasons
Say hello to the boot of your dreams. Made of pliable and glove-like stretch leatherthese shoes contour to the shape of your foot for maximum comfort. Plusthe kitten heel makes for easy walking.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black
Gola Elan Sneakers
Pros
- Great for wide feet
- Tons of colors
Cons
- Might be too casual for some workplace settings
These Gola sneakers come in so many colors that it was hard to choose my favorite. You can’t go wrong with any of them. These kicks will add a little pizzazz to anything you throw on and provide extra support and comfort while they’re at it.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: OrangeYellowBluePinkGreen
Customer review: “I get a ton of compliments when I wear these shoes...Very comfortable too!”
Tony Bianco Fantasy Black Venice Calf Boots
Pros
- Super soft leather
- Great for large calves
Cons
- Sells out quickly
They aren’t named the ‘Fantasy Boots’ for nothing. The square toe won’t squish your toesand the heel is the perfect height to add a spice to your outfit without making walking an impossible task.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: BlackCreamWhiteDark BrownRust
Customer review: “Stunning boots! Super comfygreat heel height. I found these to be true to size. I love my boots and can wear them with so many different outfits. So happy I got them.”
Theory Slingback Pump in Leather
Pros
- Block heel makes these easy to walk in
- Heel strap stretches
- High-quality leather
Cons
- Might get dirty
Modern but classicthis pick from Theory will be a great addition to your work wardrobe. The back strap is crafted from smooth leather and built with elasticso this shoe moves with you instead of against you.
Sizes: 35-41
Colors: WhiteBlack
Customer review: “These shoes are super cute and comfortable for all-day wear!”
G.H. Bass Lianna Bit Easy Weejun
Pros
- No break-in period
- Water resistant
Cons
- Runs large
These loafers are here for the long haul. Made of genuine leatherwater-resistantand built with a flexible outsoleit’s an understatement to say these are durable. You’ll wear these over and over without a second thought.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: BrownWhiteBlackRed
Customer review: “One that you will wear for many years to come. Fit is true to size and they are comfortable right out of the box. Invest in this classicyou won’t regret it.”
Simon Miller Raffia Cro Slide
Pros
- Easy to slip on
- Doubles as resortwear
Cons
- Open toe might not be appropriate for some office settings
- Not for cold weather
Sandals can be tricky for the officebut I think these are a great warm-weather option for those in a workplace where open toes are allowed. They’re constructed with a puffed footbed for optimal comfort and adjustable velcro straps for a universal fit. You’ll never want to take these off.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black
The Row The Row Zipped Boot I in Leather
Pros
- Cushioned
- Easy to wear
- Versatile
Cons
- Better for fall and winter
There’s a reason these boots are among ELLE editors’ faves. The rubber sole provides tons of cushion and makes it feel like you’re walking on clouds. Plusthe zip-up feature makes them easy to wear.
Sizes: 35-42
Colors: Black
Casual Friday never looked so good. Elevate this look with a sundress or pair of slacksand you have the perfect comfortable outfit for the office.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: WhiteBlackCream
Customer review: “I have purchased many of the Rag & Bone sneakers and love them all. This Retro court Sneakerhoweveris by far the most comfortable sneaker of all and it is super cute!”
Everyone needs a pair of timeless loafers in their footwear rotationand this pick from Duke + Dexter is a fantastic option. Classictimelessand comfortable—what more could you ask for?
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: Black
Meet the Experts
Melinda Robertson is CEO of Scanlan Theodore Americasa luxury apparel brand that specializes in elegant workwear.
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