By Sierra Mayhew
last updated
(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)
Stepping into the office should never mean you have to leave your personal sense of style at the door. For those of us who commute weekly—*ahem* me and all of my co-workers—finding the perfect blend of fashion and functionality in our work attire is a daily mission. I personally think of our day in the office as my opportunity to wear something cute that's been hanging in my closet.
The work life of a fashion editor is anything but ordinary. We're often found shuffling from downtown to uptown and every showroom in between. In-person meetings, office visits, and events keep us on our feet all day, so we know that the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. In this guide, we're excited to share our top picks for cute work shoes that not only meet the office dress code but also keep you comfortable and confident throughout your busy day. Join us on this fashion journey as we explore the shoes that seamlessly marry fashion and function. My co-workers tap into the shoes that can make your daily grind look effortlessly chic.
(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)
Shop Anna's pick:
G.H.BASS
Whitney Leather Loafer
"There's a reason why I sing my praises about these loafers every chance I get. They're really that good. After a few wears, they mold to your feet and become more comfortable than sneakers, albeit much more polished and put-together. I wear them into Who What Wear's NYC office at least once a week with everything from denim maxi skirts to relaxed trousers."
(Image credit: @lefashion)
Shop Jennifer's pick:
Katy Perry
The Evie Mule
"These flat mules immediately caught my eye during a recent Nordstrom deep dive. They look like something straight out of a collection from The Row. Plus, they are under $100. Comfortable without sacrificing style? Done and done."
(Image credit: @balencianas)
Shop Ana's picks:
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66 Low-Top Sneakers
"Yes, I've fallen into the hype, and no, I'm not mad about it! Finally grabbing a pair of the viral yellow-and-black Onitsuka Tiger sneakers feels like I've collected the last Infinity Stone when it comes to comfortable, office-appropriate footwear. Sure, a pair of simple white leather sneakers would bode well in corporate America, but the luxury of working in fashion means our relaxed office attire also translates into our footwear. The low-to-the-ground profile on these means they're extra thin, making them perfect for running to catch a subway or climbing up a few flights of stairs if I'm hauling samples to and fro. I'm eyeing the pink-and-blue colorway of these Onitsuka Tiger sneakers next—before they inevitably sell out again."
Dolce Vita
Baylor Ankle Strap Sandal
"Hell hath no fury like a foot scorned, or at least, that's what I tell myself when I wear heels out in public. I have larger, wider feet—not an ideal match for pretty yet painful, narrow heels and triangle toe boxes. I'd sworn off heels forever until I got a pair of Dolce Vita kitten sandals almost a year ago. No joke, they're the only heels I've worn religiously ever since. Not only are they comfortable and low enough to wear while running around the city, but they're also incredibly chic. I have the suede olive pair, but I'm eyeing a few morefor my collection."
(Image credit: @thechichio)
Shop ChiChi's picks:
Sam Edelman
Michaela Mary Jane Flat
"The shoes I'm looking to add to my closet right now are a pair of flat Mary Janes. I love how uncomplicated yet pretty the style is. It is such an approachable shoe style for those of us who don't like wearing heels but still want to look put-together in an office setting or at work events."
Franco Sarto
Carolyn Tassel Loafer
"You really can't go wrong with a pair of loafers. My favorite ones are a simple black pair that has tassels on them. I've worn them with just about everything from skirts to baggy jeans, and they continue to please. I mix things up sometimes by wearing them with cool socks."
(Image credit: @elizagracehuber)
Shop Eliza's pick:
Margaux
The Demi
"These ballet flats get more wear than any of my other 50 pairs of shoes. I wear them to the office at least once a week because they're simultaneously so comfortable and extremely versatile. Apparently, others agree. The style has over 1000 reviews and 4.8 stars."
(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)
Shop my picks:
Neil J Rodgers
Andi Backless Loafer
Lately, this has been my go-to pick for work days nearly every day. Clearly, fashion editors have a thing for loafers when it comes to the office, and we're not the only ones. You can instantly dress up blue jeans and a T-shirt with these.
Reformation
Wilda Kitten Mule
On dayswhen I want a bit of added height, I always go for shoes like these. They're an absolute classic, and kitten heels have never steered me wrong in the workplace.
Shop more work shoes:
Madewell
Wendel Low Block Heeled Mary Janes
Now these are pretty shoes.
Everlane
The Puffa Clog
I have a feeling clogs will be well received at your desk.
Everlane
The Italian Leather Day Heel
I can just tell that these are comfortable.
Open Edit
Cammie Kitten Heel Slingback Pump
If you like these, you have to see them in snakeskin too.
Reformation
Ani Ruched Loafer
These are already in my cart.
Marc Fisher
Dennie Ankle Strap Sandal
For an office happy hour.
Sam Edelman
Bianka Slingback Pump
A classic owned by every fashion person.
H&M
Loafers
Loafers are going in a much sleeker direction, and I'm here for it.
Steve Madden
Fortunate Bit Mule
Mules are so easy to slide on.
Steve Madden
Becka Block Heel Slingback Pump
The block heel is what sold me on this pair.
SARTO by Franco Sarto
Diva Kitten Heel Pointed Toe Pump
I love the shape on these.
Naturalizer
Birch Ankle Strap Sandal
I'm ready for summer.
Reformation
Noreen Slingback Pump
I already know my co-workers would be asking me questions about these.
Dolce Vita
Reyes Mary Jane
Add socks to make them feel extra special.
Marc Fisher
Posey Kitten Heel Slingback Pump
Perfection.
SARTO by Franco Sarto
Tracy Slingback Square Toe Flat
These will stand out.
Steve Madden
Alisah Mary Jane Flat
It's the buckles for me.
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Sierra Mayhew
Associate Editor
Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.
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