I Walked 10 Miles in NYC in These Comfy $70 Zara Heels

I usually have a shoe strategy when I’m in New York City for fashion week. I know I’ll be walking a ton attending up to eight shows a day, so I switch up my shoes sometimes even within the same day so blisters don’t have the chance to form, since different shoes irritate the foot in different spots. This past fashion week, I assumed it would be the same and packed at least six pairs of shoes. For the first day, I wore Zara’s 1 1/2–inch Leather High Heel Strappy Sandals ($70). After a few years of street style pics, I’ve learned a little height is a friend to my 5’4” frame. I fell into my hotel bed that night sans blisters.

For the second day, I found myself reaching for them again. Turns out the pink color and barely there straps make them versatile enough to go with practically anything yet a tad more interesting than basic nude shoes. Day three arrived, and I wore them again, clocking 10 miles in the heels over the three days, according to the Health app on my phone. Affordable shoes often have a reputation for being uncomfortable, and I was so pleasantly surprised by this Zara find that I had to share. Scroll down to see my three outfits and shop the shoes.

For my first day in NYC, I paired the sandals with a blue checked suit and crop top. On a last-minute whim, I added a cord tied around my waist. The pink sandals act as a subtle but sweet pop of color.

The shoulder pads came out for day two. This is definitely the sort of look that needs a little height. Enter my trusty Zara shoes. 

For the last day, I went matchy-matchy. The pink sandals complemented my warm-hued outfit perfectly. I will admit after clocking 10 miles of steps over three days that I did have to add a Band-Aid around one pinky toe, but all in all, I consider that a win!

Next up, check out how under-$50 Zara pieces look IRL.