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The love-hate relationship with uncomfortable shoes must come to an end. Between the pinching, blisters, and endlessly replacing that one bandage on the back of your heel, why do we put up with it? It’s like a toxic ex. And when it comes to a 9-to-5, no one has time to put up with this complicated love affair. For commuting or coffee runs, finding comfortable work shoes that don’t compromise on style is vitally important. It’s also a tall order, but don’t lose hope yet. From metallic sneakers to mary jane flats, I’ve rounded up the best picks of the season so you don’t have to.
WOVEN WONDER
Freda Salvador Jada Slip-On Woven Bow Flats
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TREND ALERT
Alohas Rife Shimmer Silver Cream Leather Sneakers
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STUNNING SLINGBACK
Yves Saint Laurent Cherish Leopard Slingback Pumps
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ULTIMATE BLACK BOOT
Tony Bianco Fantasy Black Venice Calf Boots
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I couldn’t have done it without a little help from an expert, so I tapped Melinda Robertson, CEO of Scanlan Theodore Americas, who knows a thing or two about building a brand that dominates workwear. This season, Robertson is loving pointed toes, slingbacks, upscale sneakers, and sleek sandals. She calls this, “the perfect assortment for a polished and versatile work shoe wardrobe.” Regarding versatility, Robertson recommends looking for workplace shoes that allow easy movement throughout your day. For example, kitten 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.
WOVEN WONDER
Freda Salvador Jada Slip-On Woven Bow Flats
WOVEN WONDER
Freda Salvador Jada Slip-On Woven Bow Flats
Pros
- Super soft
- Tons of colors
Cons
- Runs small
Flats have made a huge comeback this season, and this Freda Salvador pick proves exactly why. These shoes go with just about anything, and the woven detail adds a little something to take your look up a notch.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Blue, Brown, Black
Customer review: “I love these. They’re so versatile, and they’re breaking in really nicely. I own probably 15 pairs of Fredas and these are among my favorites.”
TREND ALERT
Alohas Rife Shimmer Silver Cream Leather Sneakers
TREND ALERT
Alohas Rife Shimmer Silver Cream Leather Sneakers
Pros
- Trendy
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Leather may crease
The metallic trend is still going strong, and 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 shoe, they are extremely comfortable to the point where I walked miles in them and never felt any discomfort.”
WARDROBE STAPLE
Dr. Martens Adrian Tassle Loafer
WARDROBE STAPLE
Dr. Martens Adrian Tassle Loafer
Pros
- Versatile
- Timeless
Cons
- None!
As a proud owner of these gorgeous loafers, I can’t say enough good things about them. I constantly find myself reaching for them because they go with anything I throw on—jeans, slacks, dresses, you name it. A forever staple in my wardrobe.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Black, Red
Customer review: “Awesome shoes first off. I use them for work, on my feet all day, and they are comfortable.”
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Pros
- Expensive look
Cons
- Pointed toe might be tight
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.”
DESIGNER DUPE
Jeffery Campbell Dancerina Flats
DESIGNER DUPE
Jeffery Campbell Dancerina Flats
Pros
- Can wear any season
- Versatile
Cons
- Lacks support
If you want the designer look without paying for it, these Jeffery Campbell flats are for you. The silhouette is simple without being boring. These are perfect if your style leans understated.
Sizes: 6-10
Colors: Beige, Navy, Silver, Black
Customer review: “So soft and comfortable!!!”
STUNNING SLINGBACK
Yves Saint Laurent Cherish Leopard Slingback Pumps
STUNNING SLINGBACK
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 stay, and I simply can’t think of a more gorgeous shoe to keep the trend alive.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Multi
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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 leather, these shoes contour to the shape of your foot for maximum comfort. Plus, the kitten heel makes for easy walking.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black
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: Orange, Yellow, Blue, Pink, Green
Customer review: “I get a ton of compliments when I wear these shoes...Very comfortable too!”
ULTIMATE BLACK BOOT
Tony Bianco Fantasy Black Venice Calf Boots
ULTIMATE BLACK BOOT
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 toes, and the heel is the perfect height to add a spice to your outfit without making walking an impossible task.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black, Cream, White, Dark Brown, Rust
Customer review: “Stunning boots! Super comfy, great 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.”
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ALL-DAY WEAR
Theory Slingback Pump in Leather
ALL-DAY WEAR
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 classic, this pick from Theory will be a great addition to your work wardrobe. The back strap is crafted from smooth leather and built with elastic, so this shoe moves with you instead of against you.
Sizes: 35-41
Colors: White, Black
Customer review: “These shoes are super cute and comfortable for all-day wear!”
ULTRA DURABLE
G.H. Bass Lianna Bit Easy Weejun
ULTRA DURABLE
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 leather, water-resistant, and built with a flexible outsole, it’s an understatement to say these are durable. You’ll wear these over and over without a second thought.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Brown, White, Black, Red
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 classic, you won’t regret it.”
PLATFORM SANDAL
Simon Miller Raffia Cro Slide
PLATFORM SANDAL
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 office, but 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
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EDITOR FAVORITE
The Row The Row Zipped Boot I in Leather
EDITOR FAVORITE
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. Plus, the zip-up feature makes them easy to wear.
Sizes: 35-42
Colors: Black
TENNIS SHOES
Rag & Bone Retro Court Sneakers
TENNIS SHOES
Rag & Bone Retro Court Sneakers
Pros
- Versatile
- Comfortable
Cons
- Runs small
- Casual
Casual Friday never looked so good. Elevate this look with a sundress or pair of slacks, and you have the perfect comfortable outfit for the office.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: White, Black, Cream
Customer review: “I have purchased many of the Rag & Bone sneakers and love them all. This Retro court Sneaker, however, is by far the most comfortable sneaker of all and it is super cute!”
FOREVER TIMELESS
Duke + Dexter Wilde Black Penny Loafer
FOREVER TIMELESS
Duke + Dexter Wilde Black Penny Loafer
Pros
- Timeless
- Versatile
Cons
- None!
Everyone needs a pair of timeless loafers in their footwear rotation, and this pick from Duke + Dexter is a fantastic option. Classic, timeless, and comfortable—what more could you ask for?
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: Black
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Meet the Experts
Melinda Robertson is CEO of Scanlan Theodore Americas, a luxury apparel brand that specializes in elegant workwear.
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