I’ll be the first to admit than when it comes to shoes, I tend to favour cute and pretty over anything practical. But as a full-time mum and a full-time fashion editor, these days, I have no time to waste on blistered heels, swollen toes, and aching arches—especially when it comes to my everyday work shoes. Between commutes, press days, meetings, and after-work events, what I really want is a chic pair of shoes that are not only good-looking but equally comfortable. It seems I’m not the only one who desires these kinds of shoes. The number one fashion question I get asked from my friends, from readers, and through Instagram is what shoes they should buy that are comfy yet still trendy and chic—particularly when it comes to travel and work.
Curious to see what other fashion-forward women are wearing on their feet to work, I tapped into six stylish women in the fashion industry for the shoes they swear by. Scroll below for a little something to suit every sartorial taste, and shop the most comfortable work shoes out there.
Mie Juel: Stylist & Creative Consultant
"When it comes to shoes, I'm all about comfort. Chanel's two-tone slingbacks are the perfect a.m.-to-p.m. shoes. The chunky heel is easy to walk, bike, or drive in and is not too high but still high enough to look chic."
Hannah Almassi: Editor in Chief, Who What Wear UK
"I found that I wore Aeydē's black pointed-toe Sylvie mules so much last year that I quickly bought another pair just in case they were never made again. They're the perfect fall shoe, they are insanely comfortable to wear (top-quality Italian manufacturing plus a mid-height heel are to thank), and because they're quite simple, they tend to match almost any outfit. This particular style is now low in stock (see? I was right to buy twice), but there are some similar versions available both from this brand and other footwear labels."
Jillian Magenheim: Fashion Director, @margoandme
"I wear a lot of neutrals in my wardrobe, so these shoes bring a great pop without being too loud. Plus, the low heel and elastic allow for extra comfort when I'm running around to appointments."
Tiffany Hsu: Fashion Buying Director, MyTheresa.com
"I love Wandler's perfect beige sandals for busy workdays. Their neutral hue makes them a go-with-everything piece, and the block heel offers all the comfort and support that I need."
TyLynn Nguyen: Designer & Creative Entrepreneur
"This is my current go-to. Not only are they comfortable, but I can wear with a long skirt or suit and look polished and elegant."
Harling Ross: Fashion Director & Brand Strategist, Man Repeller
"I wear these Margaux's classic ballet flats to work all the time because they're comfortable and look good with everything from ripped-knee jeans to structured dresses. I have them in the cerulean color (shout-out to Miranda Priestly), and I love that they offer a bit more aesthetic spice than your classic black or brown shoe option."
Caroline Maguire: Fashion Director, Shopbop
"Comfort is key for me, so shoes I can walk all day in are a must. I love the idea of pairing a sporty sandal with a tailored suit. The detailing on these make them work for any dress code!”
Shop more comfortable and chic work shoes:
"A heel you can walk in. All. Damn. Day," according to the product description. Sign us up, Everlane.
The classic work heels of our dreams. Added arch support, flexible leather, injected insoles for heel stability, comfort pods at the sole, and a rounded topline across the toes make these shoes perfect for your 12-hour days.
For more casual work settings, these minimalist Italian-leather square-toe sandals get five-star reviews for comfort and style.
Made from super-soft Italian leather, these block-heel sandals are sleek, comfortable, and the perfect walkable height.
Cooler weather is just around the corner, and if you're looking for cushy boots to slip on with your slacks, these are ultra comfortable, chic, and versatile.
Up next, the biggest autumn/winter 2019 trends you need to know.
This piece originally appeared on Who What Wear US.
