As a New Yorker who walks everywhere, I've come to the realization that sacrificing comfort for fashion isn't worth it. Stilettos may look great, but they can wreak havoc on your feet, especially if you're pounding the pavement for hours on end. It's time to say goodbye to the painful sky-high heels and hello to comfortable styles that can take you past the 10,000-step benchmark. Whether I'm running errands or heading to work, there's no reason I should ever sacrifice comfort for fashion, and thanks to my favorite brands, I don't have to.
From sleek sneakers to on-trend loafers and slide sandals, these comfortable shoe options are perfect for the woman on the go (aka me). So with that being said, I'm convinced that it's time to say goodbye to the seven styles below and hello to their comfortable yet chic replacements. Your podiatrist can thank me later.
Skipping: Shoes That Are the Wrong Size
Shopping: Mary Janes
I don't know what it is about me, but I sometimes hoard shoes that don't fit. "But they're so cute!!" I say while they sit on my shelf collecting dust. The schoolgirl in me is so here for a good pair of Mary Janes, and the pair in my collection right now actually fits. Their distinctive design is all about the rounded toe and straps across the top of the foot. While a lot of flats feel "cheugy" to me, this is a style I keep coming back to.
Shop:
I'm taking Barbiecore seriously.
When you wear these, people will know you're a fashion person.
Here for the Coach reboot.
Skipping: Sandals With Thin Straps
Shopping: Flatforms
I got an awful blister last summer from a pair of thin-strap sandals that I'm still mentally recovering from. I'm donating that pair and shopping flatforms instead. Flatforms are the perfect summer shoes that remind me of vacation but can also be worn in the city. Every European I know has a few pairs in their collection.
Shop:
I can somehow feel how comfortable these are through the screen.
I'd wear these from the beach to the streets.
There's a reason fashion people love shoes that look like this.
Skipping: Shoes With Inflexible Soles
Shopping: Retro Sneakers
I'm tired of wearing shoes that don't provide arch support. Sneakers have never failed me in that department, and I'm currently shopping retro styles. With classic designs from the '70s and '80s making a major comeback, brands such as Adidas and Gucci are creating styles that I want in my closet ASAP.
Shop:
Margiela does it again.
A cool twist on the It-girl sneakers of the moment.
There's just something about a pair of Nikes that never fails to amaze me.
Skipping: Sky-High Heels
Shopping: Kitten Heels
Kitten heels have become the chicest alternative to stilettos, and somehow, they feel way more elevated. I love that they provide enough height to elongate the legs while still providing the support and stability that I need while living in New York City.
Shop:
The square heel maximizes comfort.
The platform at the front of the shoe means serious comfort.
Every fashion editor loves Aeyde.
Skipping: Unsturdy Flip-Flops
Shopping: Structured Flat Leather Slides
You can't go wrong with a good pair of leather slides. The classic Hermès style has been on my wish list for years because it's just so dang practical.
Shop:
Logo sandals done right.
These are a must for summer.
I'm in love.
Skipping: Narrow Shoes
Shopping: Loafers
If you're still in your Wednesday Addams era, a pair of chunky loafers might be the right move. Loafers have been a wardrobe staple for decades, so don't be afraid to invest in this "trend." The loafers in my collection are all the perfect width for my feet.
Shop:
An immediate add-to-cart situation.
I can't stop staring at these loafers.
My co-workers and I have been buzzing about these.
Skipping: Slip-On Shoes
Shopping: Boots of Any Kind
Whenever I know I'm going to be on my feet all day, I press pause on my favorite mules and immediately direct my attention to my collection of boots. This is definitely the easiest and most comfortable shoe style in my closet and an easy way to wear a high heel.
Shop:
I love stretch boots these days.
The platform will add just the right amount of height without sacrificing comfort.
Yeehaw is right.
Up Next: I'm a Celebrity Stylist—These Are the 6 Most Important Shoe Trends for Summer
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
4 Dated Sweater Trends I'm Purging From My Small NYC Closet by the Year's EndAnd the chic knitwear I'm making room for.
-
I'm a Mom With 2 Young Kids—These 31 Easy Nordstrom Black Friday Sale Picks Make Me Feel StylishThese are guaranteed to sell out.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
-
My Friend Wants to Elevate Her Wardrobe—I Sent Her These 31 Nordstrom Fall Sale FindsAll have closet-staple status.
