Dressing up for work or a special occasion brings a little excitement more than ever. Dressing up and dressing up has become a hobby that many women enjoy in order to feel good and ready to conquer the day. However, you often face the fear of slipping into too-tight or cute-but-stiff leather pants that look cute but always leave blisters.
The truth is, women’s dress shoes are notoriously uncomfortable. In addition to temporary pain and chafing, wearing ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can harm the health of your feet and your entire body. The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) reports that high heels tilt the feet and often strain joints and muscles, resulting in poor posture that leads to lower back, neck and shoulder pain. Over-stretching your joints can cause painful and unsightly joints.
Of course, the most comfortable sneakers will always be the first choice, but thanks to the innovations of recent years, comfortable and stylish women’s shoes (even with heels!) are more wearable and accessible than ever before.
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the most comfortable women’s shoes you’ll want to wear even when you’re on your feet all day. Whether you have flat feet, wide feet, high arches or a foot problem such as athlete’s foot, our catalog has specific options for every need. Based on hundreds of rave customer reviews and our own testing, these styles come from premium comfort brands and other well-known brands with the support (and style) department to match.
- 100% Leather
- Heel measures approximately 2.25″
- Leather upper with an almond toe
- Adjustable buckle closure
- Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Heel measures approximately 0.51″
- Flexible soles
- Rubber sole
- VIONIC SHOES
- ELEVATED SUPPORT
- YOUR NEW FAVORITE SHOES
1. Vionic Josie Kitten Heels
About this item
- Size range: 5-11
- Colorways: Light Grey, Snake White, Leopard Tan, Black, Navy, Tort, Denim, Wine Croc
- Materials: Leather, Novelty Leather, Printed Cow Hair, Suede
- Additional features: Concealed biomechanics contours, metatarsal dome padding
- Pros: Strong arch support
- Cons: Not for those with wide feet
What the reviewers say: “I love these shoes! They look really stylish, but you can still wear them comfortably all day long.
Vionic proves that comfortable footwear doesn’t have to look like orthotics. This trendy kitten heel style from the brand is crafted with a sleek tortoiseshell finish, with a seam at the front on the toe for leg lengthening effects. Like the brand’s other offerings, these comfortable, elegant low-heeled shoes were designed with the help of podiatrists (including New York podiatrist and Vionic Innovation Lab member Dr. Jackie Sutera) and feature a deep heel counter. Heel for stability. Patented molded insole with arch support and added cushioning in the medial area. If your work outfit is all about tights and a skirt, make it part of the rotation.
2. Dr. Scholl’s Webster Loafers
About this item
- Size range: 6-11
- Colorways: Black, Black Patent
- Materials: Patent, microsuede, faux leather
- Additional features: Comfort Insole Technology, 1-inch heel
- Pros: Supportive
- Cons: The insole is non-removable
What the reviewers say: I wore it for about 10 hours with no problems, no complaints on the feet. I got a lot of compliments.”
Dr. Scholl’s is here to bring you one of the most comfortable women’s loafers that won’t kill your feet on your daily commute. The brand’s Webster loafers are flexible and lightweight, making these shoes look as elegant as sneakers. Offered in two colourways, the style features a strap, durable welt sole, 1-inch padded platform sole, and a soft, pointed silhouette that won’t crush your toes. Plus, the easy fit and anatomical padding with shock absorption and arch support prevents leg fatigue throughout the day. And as if all of that wasn’t enough to sell you this, the style is versatile enough to dress you both casually and casually. Pair them with a trouser suit or leather leggings to make your commute elegant and fun.
3. Lifestride Gigi Sling Pumps
About this item
- Size range: 5-12
- Colorways: Black, Pino Noir, Almond
- Materials: Faux Leather, Microsuede
- Additional features: Slingback strap with an adjustable metallic buckle, 2.75-inch heel
- Pros: Comfortable heel height
- Cons: Not as supportive as other options
What the reviewers say: The heel is of good height and support. I was able to hold them for 4 hours the first time I put them on without excruciating pain. “.
Our list of the most comfortable women’s shoes wouldn’t be complete without Lifestride’s style. The Gigi Sling pumps meet all the requirements recommended by podiatrists and remain a timeless silhouette for the modern city dweller. They have a three-part comfort system of breathable foam, arch support and extra heel support for balance and stability, and a flexible sole that mimics the responsive feel of a sneaker. There are so many innovations in these heels that your feet won’t know what hit them.
4. Hush Puppies Angel II Heels
About this item
- Size range: 5-12
- Colorways: Tortoise, Nude, White, Putty, Navy, Black, Dark Brown, Red, Bone
- Materials: Patent leather
- Additional features: 1 1/4″ heel, tricot lining with foam
- Pros: Offered in wide or narrow widths
- Cons: Easily scuffs, runs small
- Best for: comfortable shoes for work
Reviewers say: “Nice stylish shoes for work or going out. What I love about these shoes is that they have a nice heel for a flat shoe. They don’t have a stepmom.”
The Hush Puppies Angel Kitten Heels offer a heavenly foot feel and a look that still fits most dress codes. These shoes are shaped with a rounded toe to allow the feet to stretch naturally and are placed on a tapered heel for a more balanced and stable fit. The pair is finished with a soft lining, flexible foam cushioning and a molded rubber outsole that keeps you stable even when walking on slippery hardwood or tile surfaces. They are the most comfortable stylish shoes for walking into the office and meeting clients.
5. Birdies Starling Loafers
About this item
- Size range: 5-12
- Colorways: Ocean Flora, Night Flora, Pine, Raspberry, Golden Oak, Navy, Shadow, Chocolate, Lipstick, Black Velvet, Latte Suede, Cheetah Calf Hair
- Materials: Velvet, Suede, Calf Hair
- Additional features: No-slip rubber sole, 10 mm heel
- Pros: 7-layer comfort
- Cons: Runs small
What reviewers are saying: “I recently bought my first pair of Birdies for pharmacy school because I needed shoes that were appropriate for the workplace but comfortable enough to stand in for several hours a day. So far this shoe is perfect! The cushioned insole and arch support combined with the soft suede makes me feel like I’m walking around in slippers throughout of the day.
Not a fan of high heels? Stylish flat loafers from Birdies are a great option. Crafted from a luxurious suede upper, they combine the cushioning comfort of a women’s slipper with the elegant appeal of a tuxedo loafer. The seven-layer memory foam in the sole absorbs shocks with every step and supports the arch, as the soft padded satin feels luxurious against the skin. A textured outsole completes the style for non-slip wear on many surfaces. As an added bonus, they come in a variety of finishes including velvet, suede and calf leather to suit many wardrobes and occasions.
6. Naturalizer Tibby Sandals
About this item
- Size range: 4-12
- Colorways: Black, Nude, Silver
- Materials: Leather
- Additional features: Contour+ technology,
- Pros: Breathable lining
- Cons: Not for long-wear
- Best for: comfortable dress shoes for weddings
What Reviewers Say: “They’re really pretty, practical and comfortable. A sturdy heel, even for someone like me who weighs over 200 pounds. I’d say if you have a wide foot or a high instep, you might want to size up.”
In warm seasons, the feet should still experience the same comfort in sandals without overheating. This is where the Naturalizer sandals come in handy. The Tibby model features breathable linings and underfoot cushioning with Contour+ technology built for every contour and arch. In addition, the wide strap, sturdy kitten heel and non-slip sole offer a soft and balanced design that is suitable for all occasions. Make these comfortable silver dress shoes for a wedding, regardless of the season.
7. Dr. Martens 1461 Classic Oxford Shoes
About this item
- Size range: 5-14
- Colorways: White, Black
- Materials: Patent leather
- Additional features: Padded footbed, lace-up closure, 1.5-inch stacked heel
- Pros: Durable and timeless
- Cons: Narrow fit
What Reviewers Say: They’re modern with a touch of Dr. Martens. Comfortable and really sturdy shoes that will last for years.
Whether you’re looking for a shoe to take back to the office or just a versatile option for cooler weather, look no further than the Dr. 1461 Classic Oxford. You will see. This style is trendy for the upcoming season and will help you enter the fall in style. With a black leather upper and a waxy matte finish, they’re built to last. In addition, the outsole features the label’s Air Cushioned feature, which is designed to stand comfortably all day. These comfortable dress shoes may be more casual than other options, but they work for almost everyone and are great for women with flat feet.
8. Everlane The Day Heels
About this item
- Size range: 5-11
- Colorways: Bone Stacked, Black
- Materials: 100% Italian Leather
- Additional features: Two-inch block heel, elasticized back
- Pros: Durable and timeless
- Cons: Narrow fit
- Best for: Occasions where you need a low-heel comfortable dress shoe
Reviewers say: The size and height of the heel is perfect.
Available with a smooth leather upper, the model features a chunky 2-inch heel for the right lift and a ballerina-inspired silhouette that hugs the foot comfortably. The flexible heel flexes to adapt to any shape, while the rounded toe follows the natural curves of the foot and reduces toe pinching, making them a great loose fitting shoe for those who need it.
9. Rothy’s Mary Jane Flats
About this item
- Size range: 5-13
- Colorways: Black
- Materials: Rothy’s sustainable signature thread, vegan leather
- Additional features: Soft straps that can be tied into bows, pointed toe, flexible back
- Pros: Machine washable
- Cons: Not best for those who need arch support
What the reviewers say: “I love these shoes. Years ago I had a pair of shoes with a bow that always made me feel so stylish!
If you are looking for comfortable, elegant and ecological apartments, this couple is for you. Made from recycled plastic water bottles, this Mary Jane-inspired apartment from Rothy’s is soft, durable, and machine washable. The pointed silhouette and the bow on the front give it a more elegant look. Best of all, the outer fabric is stretchy so you can customize the fit. This makes them ideal for those with wide feet because “the soft mesh upper helps reduce squeezing,” says Dr. Najwa Javed, Californian podiatrist. This black shoe is comfortable, minimalist, and pairs equally well with a simple trouser suit or a flashy dress.
10. Madewell The Corinne Loafers
About this item
- Size range: 5-9.5
- Colorways: Dried Maple, True Black
- Materials: ISA™ LITE (Low Impact To the Environment) leather
- Additional features: One-inch heel, elasticized back
- Pros: Versatile
- Cons: Tight-fitting
- Best for: Women who love combat boots
What the reviewers say: “They have been my favorite shoes since I bought them because they work for just about any occasion. If you have bony, skinny feet, it takes a few days to break in, but it’s worth the end.”
The thick brim moccasin is an essential shoe for autumn and winter because it offers class, comfort and practicality. “I think the fringed moccasin really resonates with customers because it’s familiar, not too out of the box, but still very trendy,” says celebrity stylist and costume designer Tyler Minor. While these look like your typical loafers, Madewell’s Corinne Loafers are sure to make you feel like you’re wearing sneakers. You will find ISA ™ LITE (Low Impact to the Environment) leather, ecological and sustainable. In addition, the rubber sole facilitates walking on your knees and provides grip, an advantage in cold weather or mercury. Combined with a timeless look, this style definitely deserves a place in any woman’s wardrobe.
11. Sarto by Franco Sarto Diva Pointed Toe Pumps
About this item
- Size range: 5-11
- Colorways: Whiskey, Fuschia, Black
- Materials: Leather, Nubuck
- Additional features: Metatarsal padding at the ball of the foot, 1 3/4″ heel
- Pros: Well-made
- Cons: Narrow fit
- Best for: job interview outfits
What the reviewers say: “These are very classic pumps that are very comfortable to wear. I’m very happy with the style, the comfort and the shoe in general.”
These modern and sophisticated pumps are available in a variety of colors to match any outfit. They have a leather or nubuck upper, a synthetic lining, a 1 3/4 inch kitten heel for added height, and a cushioned insole that leaves plenty of room for your foot to move and grow naturally. The pointed nose is smooth, but roomy enough to prevent the toes from pinching or twitching. In fact, the near-perfect reviews of the shoes from customers show how comfortable they really are. If you want a business look, combine them with a long pencil skirt and blazer.
12. Stuart Weitzman Tieback Flats
About this item
- Size range: 5-12
- Colorways: Adobe, Nice Blue, Black
- Materials: 100% Leather
- Additional features: 0.8-inch heel, round toe, roped bow
- Pros: Durable and timeless
- Cons: Narrow fit
- Best for: Travel shoes
Since 1986, Stuart Weitzman shoes have been designed for elegance and precision. Leaning against the soft bounce of ballet, these comfortable elegant shoes have a small 0.8 inch heel, which is practical and fashionable. They also have an almond toe that makes legs look longer than a round model and a low-cut upper that sits great on your feet. Plus, the subtle bow on the heel adds a feminine touch to any look. Each pair is handcrafted with particular attention to detail and expertly crafted in soft leather. When you break them, these modern smart casual shoes feel right at your feet.
13. Sarah Flint Perfect Emma Shoes
About this item
- Size range: 4-13
- Colorways: Gold Saffiano, Gold Floral Jacquard, Black Suede, Navy Suede, Leopard Suede, Taupe Suede, Sand Calf, Espresso Suede, Olive Filigree Suede, Merlot Suede
- Materials: Triple-dyed Italian suede, patent leather, rubber
- Pros: Quality arch support, wide toe box
- Cons: Runs small
What the reviewers say: “I wore Perfect Emma (Chocolate Leopard) on a day date and a walk with my sweetheart, including a ride through Central Park (west to east and back!). I had cuts and put them out of the box. I couldn’t be happier. “. Who doesn’t like not having to put on their shoes before having fun?
If you are not sure what kind of shoes you want to wear with the dress, take a look at Perfect Emma shoes. Loved by stars like Amal Clooney and Meghan Markle, Sarah Flint’s designs are as comfortable as they are stylish. You’ll find a sunken sockliner, which means you get block heel support without the typical weight and thick cushioning in the arch area to reduce pressure on the area with each step. They are great for those with plantar fasciitis and are suitable for braids thanks to their elongated tip. They are great travel shoes, so pack them with a wool duster and pants for your next business trip.
14. Gucci Princetown Leather Slippers
About this item
- Size range: 4-13
- Colorways: White, Black, Brown
- Materials: Leather
- Additional features: .4-inch heel, leather sole, horsebit detail
- Pros: Classic
- Cons: Runs small
Sure, everyone seems to have Gucci Princetown mules these days, but that’s because they’re timeless. This women’s work boot is easy to put on and take off and can be worn up and down without compromising on comfort. The one inch heel really affects your stride, which helps with proper posture. In addition, we would be remiss not to mention Gucci’s own leather heaven, made last season after season, year after year. If you’re not sure what to wear in the morning, these will help.
15. Marc Fisher Zala Block Heel Pumps
About this item
- Size range: 5-12
- Colorways: Black, Yellow, Medium Pink, Medium Blue, Medium Purple, Orange, Medium Green, Brown, Lite Latte Leather, Black Leather, Tan Suede, Black Suede, Navy Suede, Teal Suede, Dark Green, Silver, Light Natural
- Materials: Leather, suede
- Additional features: 2 1/2″ heel, pointed toe
- Pros: Classic and chic
- Cons: Runs narrow
What reviewers are saying: Marc Fisher’s Zala pump was perfect! I didn’t even have to break them in. Fits perfectly. I love it…the fact that it’s pointy: it looks classy and feminine I’m 7/12M and have flat feet I’ve worn this pair 4 times and it didn’t hurt my feet or cause blisters.
Marc Fisher’s Zala block heel pumps are a best seller season after season. Not only is the style a classic, but women just seem to love how comfortable they are (nearly 500 people gave them four stars or more on Nordstorm alone). The streamlined silhouette adds elegance to any outfit, while the chunky block heel keeps you stable for hours. However, keep in mind that due to their thin tip and lack of cushioning, they are best suited for women with narrow fingers and neutral arches.
16. Söft Ameera Mules
About this item
- Size range: 6-11
- Colorways: Baywater, Blush Floral, Caramel Ivory
- Materials: Leather
- Additional features: 2-inch heel, padded insole
- Pros: Slip-on style, tread sole for non-slip walking
- Cons: Runs slightly large
What reviewers are saying: “These mules were comfortable from the moment I put them on. The first time I wore them to dinner and a play I had to walk 5 blocks, it was a dream to walk in these.
If you’ve never owned Söft shoes, you’re missing out. Cool and relaxed, this log-style sabot from the brand adds height and sophistication to any look. It features a smooth leather upper, chunky stacked heel and the brand’s signature insole for maximum comfort. For casual office Fridays, pair them with straight jeans, a plain white t-shirt and a leather jacket.
17. Tod’s Heeled Loafers
About this item
- Size range: 4-12
- Colorways: Black and red
- Materials: Leather and rubber
- Additional features: 2.2-inch leather block heel, handmade stitching
- Pros: Durable and timeless
- Cons: Requires breaking in
The soft Italian leather of the classic Tod’s shoe is second to none. The iconic brand is known for improving riding loafers, including this chunky heel that reflects its classic style. These comfortable designer shoes feature a 2.2 inch heel, a sturdy rubber sole and a square toe to add a contemporary element to a timeless design. That’s why they’re a worthwhile investment that your feet will love and are best suited for weekdays and fall days at the office.
18. AGL Tracy Block Heel Pumps
About this item
- Size range: 5-13
- Colorways: Sand, Black
- Materials: Italian leather
- Additional features: Two-inch heel
- Pros: Easy to walk in
- Cons: Runs small
What reviewers say: “Very comfortable, easy to wear, I really regretted taking them to the dance (I didn’t want to step on anyone who didn’t have shoes, which they all had) I bought the lightest color for summer, but you’re going to buy l’ black case in the fall!
AGL is another Italian shoe brand that favors craftsmanship. When modern design meets durable comfort, everyone wins. In this style, you’ll find a luxurious Italian leather upper and a classic heel of just over two inches with a roomy yet sturdy sole for breathability and support. The rubber sole offers good traction, while the toe box adds a touch of sophistication. It is a practical and well-executed pump with a lightweight construction that performs exceptionally well in professional environments.
19. Vince Camuto Hamden Pumps
About this item
- Size range: 5-11
- Colorways: Black, Cognac, Brown/Black Snake Print
- Materials: Embossed leather
- Additional features: 2½” covered block heel, synthetic sole, synthetic lining
- Pros: Elegant and comfortable
- Cons: Not for wide feet
Reviewers say: The height and width of the heel gives a sense of security that I appreciate. It fits my foot, although it is a little tight. I am waiting for him to stretch. ” .
Vince Camuto is an Italian-American designer who dominated the shoe world and was therefore worn by A-listers such as Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Alba and Olivia Culpo. The Hamden Pump has a cult following thanks to its heel that balances comfort and style. The high-quality design features a slingback feature that stays in place and a genuine leather composition that makes them a staple. With a sharp silhouette, the Hairstyle adds a sophisticated touch to any outfit and a subtle touch. It’s available in different colors from black to brown snake print, so you’re sure to find one that suits your mood. Goodness? They go with everything in your closet, from high-waisted jeans to any dress.
20. Eileen Fisher Devi Slingback Wedge Sandals
About this item
- Size range: 5-11
- Colorways: Rye, Latte, Cinnabar, Moon, Black
- Materials: Nubuck leather
- Additional features: 2-inch heel, elasticized slingback, pointed toe, cushioned insole, textured bottom
- Pros: Can be dressed up or down
- Cons: Not waterproof
What the reviewers say: “I’m looking for a shoe that’s stylish enough to wear to dinners or meetings, yet casual enough to go well with jeans and still be comfortable. I can’t say enough about this shoe Its perfect toe is really sharp but does not pinch my toes the wedge gives me the right amount of lift without being so high it is uncomfortable to walk into it I bought it naked and intend to wear it also available in black!
The Devi sandal by Eileen Fisher features a traditional wedge heel slingback design for a more contemporary and updated look. It has a sharp, closed tip that works particularly well in the fall and winter. This comfortable wedge shoe also features a textured outsole for traction, a 2-inch heel for seamless walking across multiple blocks, and a flexible slingback to prevent your foot from feeling stiff. These sandals have a simple yet elegant design that can take any look to the next level – you’ll want them in all colors.
21. E’mar Italy Aiden Heels
About this item
- Size range: 35-41
- Colorways: Cognac
- Materials: Leather
- Additional features: 90 mm heel, multilayer foam padding, patent-pending carbon fiber arch inlay, elongated toe box, recessed heel counter
- Pros: Excelled arch and heel support
- Cons: One colorway
What the reviewers say: “Exactly the pumps I was looking for! I was looking for a nice cognac court and here it is! A perfect heel to last all day, super comfortable and soft all over and a great style twist … Nothing like that. What you saw there! ”
Any woman who has worn E’mar heels will tell you how good they look on their feet all day. The emerging brand was founded by Dr. Javed with a mission to create luxurious high heels that are very wearable indeed. All E’mar shoes feature multilayer foam cushioning with a patented carbon fiber arch that provides exceptional support. This stylish multi-pattern pair from the brand also features an elongated toe and recessed heel for added ankle stability. Whatever your profession, these shoes fit your profession and take you from work to after work drinks.
What should you pay attention to in comfortable shoes?
With so many brands at stake, you will find a comfortable and stylish dress shoe for any occasion. But when tailoring standards drop, it’s important to think carefully about where you are going, because not all dress shoes are the same and you want to make sure your choice is the best one for the road you are about to take.
Style: If you are planning a wedding, cocktail party or important meeting, there are plenty of pretty women’s shoes to take you there in style. You can choose from loafers, ballet flats, boots, décolleté, sabot and more. If you want your toes to remain blistered and fatigue-free, but you want height, “look for a shoe with a heel no more than three inches wide and a wide or flexible toe,” says Dr. Najwa Javed, Silicon Valley podiatry expert. Group and founder of E’Mar Italia. A chunky block heel supports your stance and provides plenty of balance, while the wider toe area gives your feet room to expand as they can swell during the day.
Construction: It is also important to find the right shoes for your type of foot. “Choose a pair of shoes that fit the shape of your feet,” says Dr. sutera. Instead, opt for a rounder or square toe.” And for women experiencing the painful condition of plantar fasciitis, Dr. Sutera shoes with cushioning, arch support and a deep heel cup. “Patients with plantar fasciitis usually experience relief and reduction of symptoms when they wear shoes with the heel off (when the heel is higher than the front of the shoe), she says.
Certified pedagogist Michael Fishkin, Dr. McEneaney’s colleague at Northern Illinois Foot and Ankle Specialists, emphasizes the importance of metatarsal and arch support. He explains that when your body weight is evenly distributed, your legs tire faster. So if you choose a breathable shoe made of breathable material, you will prevent your feet from sweating. Regardless of the type of foot, however, variety is key. “Don’t choose the same style in different colors, choose a few different options [to keep your feet happy],” adds Dr. Sutera to it.
Size: “You wouldn’t believe how many people buy the wrong shoe size,” says Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM, foot surgeon at Sole Podiatry in New York City and star of TLC’s “My Feet Are Killing Me.” add that many foot problems are caused by shoes that don’t fit properly, whether they are too long, too short or too tight. “Some patients need custom shoes with extra heel depth or arch supports that a doctor can prescribe,” he explains.
A selection of trendy and affordable labels like Everlane and Birdies, as well as luxury brands like Sarah Flint and Gucci, offer chic styles you can wear for hours without limping. From classic pumps to heels and work-ready ankle boots, they include features such as soft cushioning, abrasion-resistant linings and an enlarged toe.
Comfortable, stylish shoes for different foot types and foot problems
Stylish shoes for flat feet
If you have flat feet, look for slouchy shoes, “which means they shouldn’t have an hourglass shape on the bottom,” says Dr. Fishkin. Because people with flat feet tend to be too open (meaning their feet roll in when they walk), she recommends looking for shoes that offer more stability and motion control.
Stylish shoes for plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, a common inflammatory foot condition that causes excruciating pain on the bottom of one or both feet, can be caused by wearing the wrong shoes. Those with stiff and stiff feet will benefit from shoes with excellent construction and shock absorption. High stability is especially important for people with flexible legs. Position,” says Mike Rushton, DPM, co. – Founder and Medical Director of Forward Movement Orthoses in St. George, Utah.
Stylish shoes for high heels
Those with high arches or who need extra arch support should look for shoes with an integrated, cushioning, and cushioning insole. “High-arched feet are best treated with supportive insoles that are softer and more flexible and lighter to accommodate the high arch,” says Dr. Sweater. “Avoid rigid, rigid and thin flat shoes. The purpose of insoles and orthotics for people with high arched feet is to absorb, absorb, and absorb shock.
Stylish shoes for back pain
If it hurts after being on your feet all day, a stylish shoe with shock absorption and strategic cushioning—labeled orthopedic—will help relieve direct pressure on tender spots. Look for shoes that don’t have a significant drop in the heel and that fit well in both length and width so that your feet are properly aligned. Remember that a heel drop may be good for one person but not for another, so it’s important to try the shoe before committing.
Stylish shoes for bunions
Fashionable heels may not be the best for big toes, but if you want to experiment with the silhouette, look for corrective shoes that strengthen the foot. This means looking for shoes with arch support and adequate cushioning. It’s also important to avoid straight or narrow toes so that your toes have plenty of room to move without rubbing uncomfortably against the lining.
Stylish shoes for heels
Heel spurs, “bony growths below the heel,” grow around Dr. Rushton’s outline of your feet. “If your foot doesn’t have enough cushioning when you roll forward, it’s more likely to get pinched between the ball of your foot and the ground,” says Dr. Rushton. The cushioned heel and anatomical arch support help promote healthy foot alignment, so the entire foot absorbs the impact of each step instead of just the heel.
Stylish shoes for wide feet
If you feel pressure on the sides of your feet when you wear shoes, you probably have wide feet. “People with wide feet should avoid pairs with a narrow, pointed or stiff toe,” says Dr. Sweater. The instep of the pair should have enough room for the toes, so move your toes. If your foot feels tight, the shoes are too tight.
The trends in comfortable women’s shoes for 2023
Whether you normally choose ballet flats, stilettos or elegant high-heeled shoes, this season is all about comfort. Designers like Gucci, Prada and Miu Miu have brought their innovation to the fore by offering sophisticated and refined casual silhouettes. Just look at models like the iconic Princetown Slip-On, Prada Lug-Sole Loafers records (high and flat) and Miu Miu’s ballet-inspired shoes. Plus, cushioned platforms and rubber soles are two key trend features that add vibrancy to the trendy style. If you want an option that adds height, don’t worry. Comfortable low-heeled dress shoes like kitten heel slingbacks (think Dior’s J’adior pumps) will become the hero of your wardrobe.
Not only do designers prove that comfortable and stylish shoes are important, but celebrities too. Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Gigi Hadid are some who trade their stiff heels for loafers, ballet flats, and even Mary Janes. Pair these shoes with little black dresses, blazers, and midi skirts as they run to and from meetings. Simply put, comfortable elegant shoes are timeless; they defy age, height and season, making them one of the most versatile styles to invest in.
Whether it’s a big meeting or presentation, a conference, an interview or just casual wear, you can count on these styles to be comfortable and stylish without being completely dated.
Meet the authors
Vanessa Powell is an established journalist, editor and stylist with over a decade of experience in fashion, lifestyle and consumer culture. You have contributed to national publications such as People Magazine, Health Magazine, Men’s Health and more. Vanessa is at the forefront of all consumer trends and is interested in the new, the best and the classics of what people wear, buy and love. Whether you’re walking the streets of New York or hiking the mountains of Los Angeles, Powell is an avid two-person walker, always on the hunt for the best new hiking shoes for women.
Claudia Miller is the digital editor of Footwear News, where she writes and publishes shopping stories on everything related to shoes. You have contributed to national publications such as MSN, Yahoo and others. She keeps up to date with all the new shoe launches and It-shoe A-listers to keep all Footwear News consumers up to date.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor of Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and publishes stories on the latest fashion and footwear trends.
Meet the experts
- Najwa Javed is a certified podiatrist and founder of E’MAR Italia. Over the years, she has focused on achieving optimal health for her patients by alleviating foot and ankle injuries. With specialized training in foot and ankle surgery and clinical research, he combines biomechanical stability with surgical innovation, biological therapies and modern science. With the he branding of him, he aims to shake up the luxury heel market with supportive heels that combine high style with medical innovation, backed up by his 15 years of experience.
- Jacquelyn Sutera is a podiatrist with a surgical background based in New York, specializing in the prevention and treatment of foot pathology. You have a BA in Biology and Philosophy from Fordham University. She subsequently attended the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, where she received her PhD in Podiatric Medicine (DPM). She is a proud member and spokesperson of the American Podiatric Medical Association and the New York State Podiatric Medical Society.
- Michael Fishkin is a certified podiatrist with foot and ankle specialists from Northern Illinois. He helps people with foot, back or knee problems to ensure they have the quality of life they deserve.
- Mike Rushton, DPM, is co-founder and medical director of Forward Motion Orthotics in St. George, Utah. For over 25 years he has been involved in sports medicine and biomechanics. He also travels extensively to promote the brand he co-founded, JM Orthotics, as one of the most advanced orthopedic laboratories in the country.
- Tyler Minor is a fashion designer who found his love for fashion at a young age. Inspired by designers like Heatherette and Zaldy Goco, Tyler decided to attend fashion school where he studied fashion design and merchandising. Soon after, Tyler found himself working under and with some of the most influential stylists and photographers in the United States. Tyler’s keen eye for detail has earned his name and work in many well-known publications. Such publications include Vogue, Inside Weddings Magazine, The Knot, and Martha Stewart Weddings, Elegant Magazine, iMute Magazine, Country Weekly Magazine, People Magazine and many more.
- Brad Schaeffer, DPM, is a foot surgeon at Sole Podiatry in New York and starred in TLC’s “My Feet Are Killing Me.” He studied in the complete reconstructive foot and ankle surgery residency program at Hoboken University Medical Center. His podiatry goals include sports medicine, wound care, and foot and ankle reconstructive surgery.
