No need to put yourself through the pain of uncomfortable sky-high stilettos. While we have an unending appreciation for the comfort and function a pair of chic sneakers can offer, they just don't fit the dress code sometimes. A stylish pair offlats, boots, or kitten heels can hold just as much allure as their teetering counterparts and can offer just as much function as your go-to Nikes or New Balances.
On the runways, meshflats from Alaïa and The Row, Prada'spointy kitten heels, and Bottega's boots all managed to dominate the conversation, but luckily, there are plenty of similar but more affordable options out there to help you embrace some new outfit ideas for the year ahead. Whether you want to dress up your casual jeans-and-tee ensemble with leather ballet flats or need comfortable heels for hitting the dance floor at an upcoming wedding, these fashionable yet comfortable options are the perfect in-between for the dresser who needs shoes to work for the office and a date afterward.
We suggest starting with the classics. Invest in a pair of leather penny loafers if you have yet to try them. If you're already squared away on neutral tones, metallic shoes and textures like rhinestone and velvet are luxe alternatives to bring a bit more variety to your footwear collection. Ahead, we've rounded up our favorites that fit our comfy-yet-cute criteria.
Schutz
Arissa Ballet Flats
Ballet flats that will help you put your best foot forward.
Sam Edelman
Tarra Sling Heels
These sleek heels have a peekaboo detail that sets them apart.
J.Crew
Stevie Boots
These knee-high boots make any outfit look luxurious.
Madewell
Vernon Loafer
Embrace classic loafers as a wardrobe staple.
Mango
Bow-Heeled Shoes
You'll be ready to party in these pretty bow heels.
Ancient Greek Sandals
Aerati Raffia Ballet Flats
These minimal woven raffia flats work in winter with socks or solo for summer.
Zara
Cowboy Boots
You don't have to be headed to the ranch to pull off cowboy boots.
Steve Madden
Landon Platform Mary Jane
Add a little height with a lug-sole platform.
Aeyde
Zoe Suede Point-Toe Ankle Boots
Sleek suede ankle boots are the perfect shoes to wear under your go-to trousers.
Reformation
Bethany Ballet Flat
You'll have a hard time finding an outfit that these Reformation flats don't make better.
Vince
Venice Slingback Flat
Part office-ready slingbacks and part comfy flats, these shoes do all the heavy lifting.
Birkenstock
Boston Buckled Suede Clogs
For days when you want to be cozy, these clogs fit the bill.
G.H.BASS
Whitney Leather Loafer
Classic penny loafers are timeless shoes you'll wear over and over again.
Dolce Vita
Senna Western Boot
If you're looking for boots to wear with your favorite cottagecore dresses, look no further.
Tony Bianco
Dusty Heel
These sleek boots are our pick for when you'll need to do some walking but still want a lift.
Jeffrey Campbell
Linq-Up Mule
Statement sandals to break out for special occasions.
Alohas
Sway Flats
Something between flats and leather loafers, these minimal shoes would look cute with a floaty dress or pair of wide-leg jeans.
Tory Burch
Bow Logo Cap Toe Ballet Flat
If you're building out a collection of wardrobe basics, cap-toe ballet flats are a must.
Hereu
Pesca Cutout Leather Heeled Sandals
Pack these heeled sandals away for a vacation coming up.
Free People
Moira Mesh Flats
Mesh flats are an of-the-moment style to have on your radar.
Schutz
Dorothy Heels
Embrace French-girl style with patent strappy heels.
Kenneth Cole
Myra Ballet Flat
An elastic strap ensures your foot won't slip.
Schutz
Arissa Ballet Flats
Instead of your usual neutral flats, don't be afraid to embrace bold color.
Franco Sarto
Darcy Kitten Heel Pump
These comfy kitten heels are a functional choice for the office and beyond.
Larroude
Valerie Mules
Embrace a little shine with these perfect party heels.
Loeffler Randall
Noa Moire Bow Block-Heel Ballet Pumps
Moiré fabric and a bow detail are a delectable combination.
Intentionally Blank
Passage Boots
These classic boots will come in handy all the time.
Naturalizer
Lindsey Slingback Sandal
These heels are begging to be worn with jeans and a tee.
Ganni
City Boot
These practical boots happen to look good in any weather.
Emme Parsons
Hope Metallic-Leather Flat Sandals
Minimal leather sandals can be dressed up or down.