Comfortable Dress Shoes for All-Day Wearing: A Selection of 10 Stylish Options
Dig into our fabulous recommendations, ‘cause we ain't playing around! Our editors handpicked these bad boys, but some were sent as samples, you feel me? Just know, BuzzFeed and our publishing partners might snag a chunk of those sweet sales or other goodies from the links on this page.
Slaying outfits for any occasion just got easier, even when those occasions require heels or structured shoes that can be murder on your feet. I, a vocal, under-five-feet-tall, and thorough complainer, can testify to that. Traditional heels? Forget about it, amirite? I crave the height boost, but I won't sacrifice comfort, not even for the slickest heel. So I'm always on the hunt for fancy footwear with secret comfort features, like cushy platforms, block heels, or fancy-schmancy flats.
In my quest to discover comfy dressy shoes, I chatted with a crew of folks who grind it out on their feet at fancy events: publicists.
Kate Williams, founder of Pistol PR in NYC, advocates setting up in elegant, dressy flats for events before switching to low block heels when it's time to bust out the dress or skirt.
Natalie Rao, PR manager at Brooklinen, prioritizes polished, comfy shoes like platform sandals, mules, booties with heels, Chelsea boots, or nice loafers. "You won't find me in heels at press events anymore, thank the heavens!" she shared. "When I do need to wear them, I go for block heels that aren't too towering, and if there's a platform involved that lightens the load on my feet, well, that's the cherry on top."
She stressed sticking to a neutral color palette (primarily black), ensuring versatility for outfit pairing. She also pointed out that pointed or shaped toes add a dash of style without compromising on comfort.
Check out the top picks below from these PR powerhouses, along with our own editor's can't-miss choices you just can't resist. Kick these closet staples into rotation, and they'll prove workhorses for you!
1. Steve Madden Faris booties
2. Camper Kobarah slingback sandals
3. Prada patent leather loafers
4. Stuart Weitzman 5050 Soho bootie
5. Nisolo Go-To flatform sandal
6. Sam Edelman Quincy block heel loafer
7. Steve Madden Hush boots
8. The Row fisherman flat sandals
9. Tao Comme des Garçons' Glossy Steer lug sole platform loafer
10. Stuart Weitzman Outlet Dylan Chelsea bootie
These reviews have been shortened and polished for your reading pleasure.
General Tips for Petite Individuals
- Go for moderate heights (2-3 inches) to elongate your legs without swamping your frame.
- Box or pointed toes can create a longer look.
- Narrow widths help avoid overwhelming your little feet.
- Light colors can give the illusion of a more extended profile.
Recommended Brands
- Jimmy Choo: Renowned for stylish, comfy heels.
- Christian Louboutin: Offers a range of styles suitable for petite frames.
- Stuart Weitzman: Known for comfortable, trendy options.
For more targeted suggestions, shoot a query to fashion experts or publicists. Happy shopping, fancy fashionistas!
- Kate Williams, founder of Pistol PR, suggests starting your outfit with elegant, dressy flats for events and then switching to low block heels as needed, such as the Steve Madden Faris booties.
- Natalie Rao, PR manager at Brooklinen, recommends comfortable, polished shoes like platform sandals, mules, booties with heels, Chelsea boots, or nice loafers. She endorses block heels with a platform, like the Nisolo Go-To flatform sandal, for added comfort at events.
- If you're applying for a creditline, it's important to be sure about your choices and sources, much like we are when publishing recommendations for shopping clothing or footwear.
