Affordable Luxury: Footwear Options That Offer Excellent Value Despite Their Slightly Hefty Price Tag
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Embrace your footwear freedom! Our amazing team of editors painstakingly selected these recommendations for you, even if some were provided as samples. Here's the exciting part: we may receive a share of sales or other compensation from the links you click on in this article.
In the long run, your feet will thank you for investing in quality shoes.
By Abby Kass, BuzzFeed Staff
1. Sorel Kinetic Impact Lace Sneakers
These bad boys let your feet breathe all day long, so you don't have to stress about sweaty feet! Plus, the futuristic style makes these more unique and fun compared to any other sneaker you've owned.
View on Amazon (Amazon Prime members can try before they buy!)
Raving review: "Normally, I don't like wearing tennis shoes all day because my feet tend to sweat, then swell when I take them off. These are the best tennis shoes I've ever owned. They feel fantastic on my arthritic feet, and my feet can breathe in them all day, so they never sweat and don't swell up when I take them off. I bought a second pair in white. Well worth the money. All my other tennis shoes are going to Goodwill." -SBoo
Purchase on Amazon for $56.60 – Available in sizes 5-12 and 22 colors.
2. Platform Sandals
Get a boost while keeping your feet mostly flat and comfortable with these stylish sandals. No need for uncomfortable dress shoes when these are an option!
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Raving review: "These are super cute and by far the most comfortable heels I've ever worn. My feet are wide and flat, so typically heeled shoes are my enemy. For context, I wore these to a baby shower and afterward walked around Whole Foods with zero issues. I'm definitely buying these in silver next." -Adriana L.
Purchase from Aerosoles or Nordstrom for $135 – Available in sizes 5-12, wide, and 14 colors and patterns.
3. Sam Edelman Loafers
Slide these bad boys on like a boss, whether you're wearing dress pants, jeans, or even a dress!
View on Amazon (Amazon Prime members can try before they buy!)
Raving review: "These shoes are a favorite! I ordered the black after having a beet red color for about a year and a half. They were comfortable right out of the box, the leather is supple, and they look high-quality. I am very happy with my purchase. These are often compared to the Brixton loafer from a high-end fashion brand." -Christine
Purchase on Amazon for $139.95 – Available in sizes 4-13, wide width, and 45 colors and patterns.
4. Mary Jane Pumps
These unique pumps are a must-have due to their eye-catching design. Not only do they scream "LET THEM EAT CAKE," but they also come with an attachment to transform them from a buckle shoe to a lace-up shoe. In other words, you're essentially getting two amazing shoes for the price of one!
View on Amazon (Amazon Prime members can try before they buy!)
Raving review: "I've been watching these shoes for a while because it seems size 10 always runs out. When I got the alert they restocked, I HAD to jump on it. First, these are definitely the cutest pair of heels that I've ever had on my feet. Just perfect to spice up an outfit for work, a night on the town, or just to wear when you feel like it. Second, I may have paid a pretty penny, but for the quality, the comfort, and the adorable design, it was definitely worth it. They come in the cutest cake box packaging with a set of replacement heel caps (I don't know what they're officially called). And I just get a kick out of the guillotine on the heel. They fit exactly as expected. Don't size up like some reviews say, if you're a standard 10, these will fit like a gem." -Kaybeline
Purchase on Amazon for $104.99 – Available in whole sizes 5-11 and 21 colors.
5. Franco Sarto Mid-Calf Boots
Take these bad boys on every adventure you go on this winter! With unwavering style, you'll feel like you're strutting (not just walking) on the streets.
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can try before you buy!
Raving review: "They are very good boots! I've bought three pairs of them so far, and I'm happy with all of them! I especially like the feeling of the boots! I suggest to buy one size bigger and wear thicker socks, and you'll feel even more comfortable! Hope this helps!" -NTHCC
Purchase on Amazon for $58.79 – Available in sizes 5-13 and 12 colors.
6. Cutout Mules
These sophisticated mules offer the support of a sneaker, comfort of a slipper, and the style of a flat in one shoe that will quickly become your favorite! With more than 27,000 reviews, you can almost guarantee that these will be your go-to shoes.
Zou Xou Shoes is a Black woman-owned small business that has been creating handcrafted shoes by Argentinian shoemakers since 2015. The styles are easy and classic, making them suitable for years. These mules are handmade to order in European sizes, which means you should pick one size up. For example, if you wear a US 8, choose a 39.
Raving review: "These shoes are great! The leather is soft and comfortable - no breaking in necessary." -Eileen Chao
Purchase from Zou Xou Shoes on Etsy for $254 (available in EU sizes 36-42).
7. Chelsea Boots
Keep these bad boys in your closet and grab them whenever you're unsure about what to wear but need a sturdy pair of shoes that look good.
Thursday Boot Company suggests ordering a half size up from your normal size (aka your boot size).
Raving review: "I've bought from Thursday in the past, and I always love their boots and get so many compliments. They're well made and go with everything. They're definitely worth the price. I've had some pairs for years, and they hold up in every kind of weather! 10/10 recommend!" -Amazon Customer
Purchase on Amazon for $160 (available in sizes 5-11 and 9 colors).
8. Rothy's Flats
Get to the point with these adorable knit shoes! Offering both comfort and style, they'll add a pop of color to any outfit. Plus, with over 27,000 reviews, it's almost a guarantee these will become your favorite!
Raving review: "These are the most wonderful shoes on earth. They are my go-to for shoes. I've been wearing them for 7 years now, and I love them as much now as when I first purchased them." -DEBRA S.
Purchase from Rothy's for $149 (available in sizes 5-13 and in 34 colors and patterns).
9. Doc Martens Combat Boots
Reliable Doc Martens combat boots will take you through rain, sleet, and even snow without compromising your style.
10. Birdies Flats
Take a walk on the wild side (pun intended) with these flats that meld the support of a sneaker, comfort of a slipper, and style of a flat into one fantastic shoe.
11. Clogs
Catch everyone’s eye in these unique and comfortable clogs that'll become your go-to shoe.
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can try before you buy!
Raving review: "I love these clogs. I wore them for 10 hours right out of the box with no issues whatsoever. They are cute, super comfy, and feel really good on your feet. The soles are pretty slip-proof, and the leather is pretty soft, so no breaking in is required. Love them!!!" -Amazon Customer
Purchase on Amazon for $93.19 – Available in whole sizes 5-11 and 16 colors.
12. Madewell Court Sneakers
Reviewers can’t stop raving about the comfort, quality, and cuteness of these shoes. Not to mention the versatility! If you're looking for a staple sneaker without a visible logo, these are a must-have!
Raving review: "I've had these shoes for a couple of years now, and I am obsessed. They are so comfortable and truly go with everything. I've walked miles in these shoes, and they hold up well." -CME663
Purchase from Madewell for $98 (available in sizes 5-12).
13. Naturalizer Slingbacks
Slip on these stylish slingbacks for classic work, date nights, and everything in between. The slight heel and pointed toe make these shoes chic, while the comfort level keeps them wearable all day.
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can try before you buy!
Raving review: "With all my foot problems, I was resigned to only wearing sneakers with orthotics and sandals. I am happy to say these shoes are buttery soft and comfortable. I got the wide fit and am searching for the next cute pair to purchase. They are pricey, so I have to pace myself, but definitely worth it!" -Vivian
Purchase on Amazon for $89 (available in sizes 4-12, wide, and in 12 colors).
14. Everlane Flats
These flats are designed to mold to your feet as you wear them, eventually feeling like you're not wearing any shoes at all.
Raving review: "I absolutely love the day gloves, and I have them in several colors. They are stylish and comfortable right out of the box. They're great for work. Fit is true to size." -ndog99
Purchase from Everlane for $135 (available in sizes 5-11 and in 11 colors).
15. Hoka Sneakers
Prepare for cloud-like comfort with these sneakers featuring extra cushiony foam. The colorful designs make this a dreamy pick you'll love!
Raving review: "This is my first time buying a pair of HOKA shoes, but it won't be my last. They have quickly become my go-to and favorite sneakers. The toe box gives plenty of room. They run true to size and are amazingly comfortable. Love them!" -Gizzys Mom
Purchase from Hoka for $165 (available in sizes 5-12 and in 21 colors).
Check out this article to learn more about why Hoka Sneakers are worth the hype.
16. DuoBoots Knee-High Boots
These waterproof knee-high boots come in eight different calf widths, making them the perfect solution if you struggle to find tall boots that actually fit. Plus, the memory foam insoles ensure you can wear them all the time!
Purchase from DuoBoots for $210 (originally $326; available in sizes 5-12 and 8 calf widths).
17. Sam Edelman Combat Boots
Strut in these striking combat boots for any challenge the day throws your way! The calf is made from a stretchy knit material, ensuring a perfect fit.
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can try before you buy!
Raving review: "These boots are sooooo cute! I wore them walking around NY and loved them! I felt very comfortable. They have a good supportive stretch to the ankle and calf. Where have they been my whole life?" -Ben West
Purchase on Amazon for $59.95 (available in women's sizes 5-11 and in 7 colors).
18. Sorel Winter Boots
Brace yourself for frosty weather with these all-weather-ready boots! Reviewers from Minnesota (yep, it’s cold there) swear by Sorel's ability to keep feet warm even in the coldest temperatures.
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can try before you buy!
Raving review: "These boots were comfortable the first day. They kept my feet warm, which my other cheaper boots didn't, even with wool socks on. With these boots, I only wore one pair of normal socks, and I had no cold toes! These are well worth the money!!" -Amazon Customer
Purchase on Amazon for $123.31 (available in sizes 5-12 and in 4 colors).
19. Lucky Brand Ankle Boots
Feel lucky with these stunning ankle boots that will never go out of style! These are perfect for years of wear.
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can try before you buy!
BuzzFeed shopping editor Heather Braga says: "I have these boots in both black and toffee – I'm actually obsessed. They are my favorite shoes right now because I can wear them through the fall, winter, and early spring. They look fantastic with jeans and adorable with tights. They have just enough heel to create the look of heeled booties without the discomfort of walking around in heels. Basically, they're amazing, and everyone should buy them. K, thanks. You can check out my full review on them here (#6)."
Raving review: "Extremely comfortable. I have worn these the past two days since they arrived, and my feet are happy. I am a consistent size 7.5, but I ordered an 8 based on other reviews. The 8 fits perfectly wearing thin/normal socks. Dropped some water on my shoes accidentally, and it beaded right up, so I think these will do well in the rain. I'll be wearing these on a trip to Europe and am excited to have shoes that will be both stylish and comfortable for lots of walking." -Cristina
Purchase on Amazon for $73.14 (available in sizes 5-13 and wide widths, and 29 colors and fabric styles).
20. Rainbow Wave Sneakers
Your arches will be singing praises for these colorful sneakers equipped with Ortholite insoles. Plus, their stylish design means they'll complement any outfit you choose!
Raving review: "Gorgeous leather, colorful and vibrant – an amazing shoe! Not super comfy right out of the box, but with wear (thick socks at first) it will form to a custom fit. These shoes can be dressed down to sweats or dressed way up to dresses to stunning effect! Buy them, you won't regret the purchase!" -HeatherS
Purchase on Amazon for $41.70 (available in sizes 5-11 and in white and blue).
21. Ma'am Shoes Suede Boots
These boots will be the shining star of your wardrobe! The slightly pointed toe and embossed leather heel make these shoes unforgettable.
Ma'am Shoes is a woman-owned small business creating beautiful and comfortable shoes you can wear for years. If you're in between sizes, they recommend you size up.
Raving review: "The first day of wear can typically be a challenge for new shoes because I work long hours and am on my feet all day. I am thrilled to report that they wear wonderfully – they felt like I already owned them for a month – they were that comfortable! I sized 1/2 size up and am so glad I did. Definitely buying more soon." -Ashley Cornett
Purchase from Ma'am Shoes for $300 (originally $350; available in sizes 5-11).
22. Steve Madden Animal-Print Sneakers
Go wild with these unique sneakers featuring a mix of animal prints. These shoes offer the versatility of pairing with any outfit, ensuring your feet won't be screaming at the end of the day.
View on Amazon (Amazon Prime members can try before they buy!)
Raving review: "These are absolutely the cutest and most unique sneakers. They are comfortable and so stylish. I'm definitely getting the cheetah print next." -Candace Liyah Paul
Purchase on Amazon for $68.55 (available in sizes 5-11 and in 40 colors and styles).
23. Sorel Chelsea Boots
Stay dry and stylish with these fully waterproof Chelsea boots! No more sacrificing style for function when it rains – these boots have got you covered!
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can try before you buy!
Raving review: "I love these boots! Awesome look, heel, comfort and quality! I have received many compliments, too! You won't be disappointed with your purchase!" -Carol-Jean
Purchase from Amazon or Sorel for $135.85+ (available in sizes 5-12 and in 4 colors).
The reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
- SBoo was thrilled with the Sorel Kinetic Impact Lace Sneakers, praising their comfort and ability to prevent sweaty feet.
- Adriana L. found the platform sandals to be the most comfortable heels she's ever worn, despite having wide and flat feet.
- Christine was glad with her Sam Edelman Loafers, noting they were comfortable right out of the box and looked high-quality.
