As an L.A. transplant who has only been living in New York for roughly two years, I can tell you that one of the first things I learned about dressing for city life upon moving here was that the name of the game is comfort. Sounds simple enough, until I tell you that I hate flats—the footwear choice of commuters everywhere.
I don’t know why, but just I’ve never been particularly into them. Sure, I might wear a Mary-Jane here and there if I feel like making a trend-driven exception, but in general, I neither find flats to be comfortable nor aesthetically appealing. Plus, at 5’2” I’m also always game for a little extra height, so I’ve come up with a worthy list of alternatives to wear instead. To see, read about, and, of course, shop the five comfortable shoe styles I wear instead of flats, just keep scrolling.
1. Mules
Remember when mules were just a trend? Now, I wonder what I’d do without them. From closed-toe styles to sandals, there’s a mule for everyone—and every outfit. Plus, there are so many comfortable options.
Shop mules:
2. Boots
All I can say about ankle boots is that I really, really love them. So much so, that I own more pairs than I’m willing to admit and have a variety of styles for every season—even summer. Since I’m on the more petite side, I always opt for pairs that have even a one-or two-inch heel for a little extra height that’s still comfortable and easy to walk all day in.
Shop boots:
3. Kitten Heels
Kitten heels are that perfect shoe between a flat and a heel. They're comfortable, they pair well with both long and short hemlines, and allow you to look put-together without feeling like you’re over- or underdressed.
Shop kitten heels:
Related: 6 Summer Shoes You Actually Need in Your Wardrobe
4. Sneakers
Gym days aside, I always prefer sneakers to flats. Firstly, they’re much better for your feet and even feel more comfortable. Next, the sneakers I wear tend have a little height, which always helps, and lastly, they just feel like they’re giving your outfit a cool-factor rather than simply blending in.
Shop sneakers:
5. Block-Heel Sandals
The second summer hits, I live in block-heel sandals. They allow me to feel taller without feeling like I’m wearing heels, and are available in so many colours, styles and heel heights. Because of the way pressure gets distributed over a wide surface on the bottom, they are comfortable.
Shop block-heel sandals:
Up Next: This Spring Jumpsuit Trend Comes Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Approved