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The 5 Most Comfortable Work Shoes To Wear To The Office

The 5 Most Comfortable Work Shoes To Wear To The Office

From low-heeled ankle boots to block-heeled pumps.

Work Shoes

No one wants to struggle on their commute, laptop bag in tow, and then spend the entire workday in toe-pinching, heel-slipping, ankle-scarring heels. Whether you work in a creative field or on the more corporate side, the best office shoes for women always put comfort above all.

And yet, just because you want to make it through the day blister-free doesn't mean abandoning your stylish curiosity. "Some days, I love a loafer for work, and others, a nice, tall heel," says Maria Gangemi, founder and CEO of shoe brand M.Gemi. "Both styles are timelessly chic and while one is seemingly more comfortable than the other, heels have come a long way."

As a commuter, a low heel or high fashion sneakers will get you to the office comfortably while still providing the polish you're looking for. But, if a day comes when a stiletto is a must, and your usual comfortable high heels won't do, the longstanding trick of having a pair tucked into a drawer ("desk shoes" as they're lovingly referred to), can come in handy. "No matter what I'm wearing, a solid pump makes me stand with more confidence and carry myself with more grace," says Gangemi. "For some people, lipstick is their finishing touch—for me, it's my stilettos!"

Related article: Shop These Work Outfits For A Chic Return To The Office

Street Style PFW FW20-21

Photo: Getty

Street Style PFW FW20-21

What Makes A Good Work Shoe?

A good work shoe is one that you can wear throughout the day comfortably. While different office cultures may require different footwear—some fancier and some more casual—the goal is to find a style that fits your personal aesthetic and needs while still allowing you to confidently stride into a meeting.

How To Choose A Work Shoe

"I'd recommend trying different types of heels, not just heights, which may not look so different but can feel hugely different," says Gangemi. The key is to find a style that is comfortable enough to boost your confidence throughout the day. No blisters necessary. "We're no longer limited to skinny stilettos! We've got block heels, sculpted ones, kitten, and more. Take different styles for a test drive and go with what works for you!"

Whether you're new to the workforce, days away from a new job, or simply ready for new work outfit ideas, the five key styles below will help you to build a solid rotation of shoes for the office that are sure to impress.

Related article: 20 Work Bags for Women That Are Practical And Chic

Mules—whether minimal or intricately detailed—are easy slide-on shoes that feel virtually painless. Options are endless, from block heels to flats and more. Wear them with everything from sweater dresses and tailored trousers to turtlenecks and midi skirts.

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This neutral raffia sandal will quickly become a comfortable go-to. With a walkable block heel and thick strap, your foot will glide in and stay there sans heel flapping or slippage.

Sizes: 35–42

Materials: Leather, raffia

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Mules come heeled or flat. Look to the latter for all-day comfort, but focus on elevated details for work attire, like faux-croc leather, a pointed toe, or loafer accents.

Sizes: 5–11

Material: Leather

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In more formal offices, you'll want to opt for something that resembles a classic pump like this pointy-toed option.

Sizes: 4–11

Material: Faux Leather



Related article: 16 Perfect Nude Pumps You Have to Invest in Now

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Sky-high boots may create the height you desire, but often come with the arch pain that you'd rather miss. A low-heel boot will make life a bit easier when running back and forth from the office to the coffee counter all day. Kitten- and block-heel designs offer the perfect height for comfort, but also the leg-lengthening effects you love with a dress or pair of cropped trousers.

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For Parisian ease done in polished suede, this luxe ankle boot will lead you out of the office and to a late dinner.

Sizes: 35–41

Material: Suede

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Not all low-heel boots are ankle-length. A mid-calf style is another versatile silhouette for pairing with midi hemlines, trousers (boot tuck, anyone?), or a power suit.

Sizes: 36-41

Material: Leather

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Also known as doll shoes, the best Mary Janes provide comfort because of their incline and ankle strap. Modernized versions come in croc-embossed leather, suede, and heeled iterations. Wear them with anything from leather pencil skirts to A-line dresses.

Related article: The 21 Best Mary Janes To Wear This Season

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Brother Vellies
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This buttery-soft leather version of the Mary Jane from Brother Vellies is versatile with a flicker of whimsy—proof that rhinestones can, indeed, have a spot in the workplace.

Sizes: 5–12

Material: Leather

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Bring a touch of French je ne sais quois into your work wardrobe with these patent Mary Janes. The wooden block heel makes these a great choice for summer.

Sizes: 34-42

Material: Patent Leather

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Block-heel pumps are a classic nine-to-five shoe that will never steer you wrong. Thanks to sturdy heels, they're easy to walk in without sacrificing style.

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Saks Fifth Avenue
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Gucci's slingback leather pump boasts a throwback quality with its squared toe and the label's iconic horsebit hardware. Lean into the nostalgia by pairing it with a bow-tie blouse and flowing trousers. Or go more feminine in a midi dress with textured tights.

Sizes: 34-42

Material: Leather



Related article: Looking To Update Your Shoe Closet? Put Your Best Foot Forward With These Cute Options

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A suede block-heel pump is a wardrobe essential. Roger Vivier's signature oversize buckle detail ups the ante for a modern flair.

Sizes: 34-42

Material: Suede

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If you're lucky enough to work in a creative field where strict dress codes are a thing of the past, look to the work sneaker. When worn with the best suit sets, a knitted dress, or a stylish sweater and jeans, this beyond-comfortable shoe becomes desk appropriate.

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Level up the look of a classic sneaker at work by opting for one with suede and leather details. The refined effect pairs effortlessly with dresses and separates of all kinds.

Sizes: 35–51

Material: Suede, leather

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Whether with a tailored suit or fluid dress, The Row's minimalist leather sneaker is the ultimate display of elevated ease at the office. Available in black or white, this one is a worthy investment that will go the distance in your wardrobe.

Size: 35–41

Material: Leather



This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.

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