The 21 Most Comfortable Dress Shoes for Women, According to Podiatrists
Nikki Chwatt
Style Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Footwear News may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Whether it’s a big meeting, conference, interview, or a special event, a certain excitement comes with dressing up. Finding sophisticated yet comfortable dress shoes for women and a polished outfit to match makes you look good and feel good, so you can conquer the day on solid footing.
The truth is that dress shoes for women have earned a reputation for being uncomfortable. Last year, many women experienced foot problems brought on by a return to the office, in-person conferences, and other professional events that required formal footwear, per a recent Bloomberg report. Beyond the temporary soreness and abrasions, many women experienced side effects such as poor posture and lower back, neck, and shoulder pain. According to a report from the American Osteopathic Association, dress shoes with a heel place the foot at an angle and often throw the joints and muscles out of alignment, further emphasizing the need to choose comfortable women’s dress shoes that promote good health from head to toe.
Sure, the most comfortable sneakers will always be the number one choice, but thanks to innovations from podiatrist-backed brands like Dr. Scholl’s, Vionic, and Naturalizer, there are now women’s dress shoes that are more on-trend than what people associated with orthopedic shoes in the past. While the luxury shoe market still has a long way to go when it comes to creating comfortable dress shoes, some high-end brands, like Tamara Mellon with its signature Pillow Top technology, have taken steps to provide comfortable footwear that doesn’t sacrifice style.
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High heels are no longer your only choice for the business dress codes, too — this year’s shoe trends have put kitten heels, loafers, and ballet flats in the limelight. We’ve seen these styles across the fall and spring runway collections, suggesting that fashion and function can co-exist no matter the season.
Considering all this, we rounded up the most comfortable dress shoes for women that you’ll want to wear even while standing all day. Whether you have flat feet, wide feet, high arches, or a foot condition like plantar fasciitis, our list includes specific options to suit every need. Backed by hundreds of glowing customer reviews and our own testing, these styles come courtesy of top comfort brands and other popular labels that are getting it right in the support (and style) departments.
Colorways: Black, Black Patent
Materials: Patent, microsuede, faux leather
Additional features: Comfort Insole Technology, 1-inch heel
Pros: Supportive
Cons: The insole is non-removable
What reviewers say: “It’s very comfortable and stylish, I wore it for about 10 hours with no problems, no feet complaints at all. I received a lot of compliments.”
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Colorways: Black, Pino Noir, Almond
Materials: Faux Leather, Microsuede
Additional features: Slingback strap with an adjustable metallic buckle, 2.75-inch heel
Pros: Comfortable heel height
Cons: Not as supportive as other options
What reviewers say: “This shoe is just what I was looking for — comfortable but not frumpy. The heel is a good height, and it is supportive. Was able to stay in them 4 hours the first time I wore them without being in excoriating pain.”
Colorways: Black, yellow, pink, tan, silver, dark green, and more
Materials: Leather, suede
Additional features: 2 1/2″ heel, pointed toe
Pros: Classic and chic
Cons: Runs narrow
What reviewers say: “I’ve been looking for a pair of block-heel pumps that had the right height and was chic at the same time. The Zala Pump from Marc Fisher was perfect! I didn’t even have to break them in. It fit true to size. I love that it is pointy – it looks sleek and feminine. I’m 7/12M and have flat feet. I’ve worn this pair 4 times and it hasn’t hurt my feet, nor has it given me blisters.”
Colorways: Black, Macaroon
Materials: Leather
Additional features: A deep heel cup, enhanced forefoot contour, stretchy back-strap
Pros: Strong arch support
Cons: Not for those with wide feet
What reviewers say: “Elegance and comfort – what could be better! I needed lower heels for a wedding – these were perfect!”
Colorways: Black, Ivory
Materials: Leather
Additional features: 0.39-inch heel, Recycled Synthetic Outsole
Pros: Can be dressed up or down
Cons: Not waterproof
What reviewers say: “These are perfect — I wish I had in every color! I also love how comfortable they are right from the get go.”
Colorways: Black, Pink, Café, and four other hues
Materials: Faux leather
Additional features: Contour+ Comfort technology
Pros: Breathable lining
Cons: Narrow
Best for: comfortable dress shoes for weddings
What reviewers say: “These are really cute, practical, and comfy. Sturdy heel even for a 200lb+ person like myself. I will say that if your foot runs wide or you have a higher instep, you may want to size up.”
Colorways: Dried Maple, True Black
Materials: ISA™ LITE (Low Impact To the Environment) leather
Additional features: One-inch heel, elasticized back
Pros: Versatile
Cons: Tight-fitting
Best for: Women who love combat boots
What reviewers say: “Since my purchase, they’ve been my go-to shoes as they practically match every occasion. If you have bony and thin-skin feet, though, it’ll take a few days to break in, but really worth it in the end.”
Colorways: Cream, black
Materials: Leather
Additional features: 2.17-inch heel, padded insole
Pros: Slip-on style, cushioned leather footbed
Cons: Not much traction on the sole
What Reviewers Say: ” I bought the black ones. A little clunky or I’d give them 5 stars. Still like them. You get height with the stability of the block heel. I haven’t worn them for a long time yet for a true comfort rating. They feel ok out of the box. No pinching or rubbing. True to size. “
Colorways: White, Black
Materials: Patent leather
Additional features: Padded footbed, lace-up closure, 1.5-inch stacked heel
Pros: Durable and timeless
Cons: Narrow fit
What reviewers say: “These look great with dressy pants or jeans. They’re modern with a bit of Dr Martens edge to them. Comfortable and really sturdy shoes that’ll last for years.”
Related:
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Colorways: Bone Stacked, Black
Materials: 100% Italian Leather
Additional features: Two-inch block heel, elasticized back
Pros: Durable and timeless
Cons: Narrow fit
Best for: Occasions where you need a low-heel comfortable dress shoe
What reviewers say: “Shoe fits like a glove, it is crafted with exquisite soft leather. The heel is the perfect size and height. This is my second pair, and I highly recommend them.”
Colorways: Black
Materials: Rothy’s sustainable signature thread, vegan leather
Additional features: Soft straps that can be tied into bows, pointed toe, flexible back
Pros: Machine washable
Cons: Not best for those who need arch support
What reviewers say: “I love these shoes. Years ago, I had a pair of shoes with bows that always made me feel so chic! Now I have the best of both worlds, comfort, and style.”
Colorways: Whiskey, Fuschia, Black
Materials: Leather, Nubuck
Additional features: Metatarsal padding at the ball of the foot, 1 3/4″ heel
Pros: Well-made
Cons: Narrow fit
Best for: job interview outfits
What reviewers say: “These are very classic doable pumps that are very comfortable. I’m very happy with the style, comfort, and overall shoe.”
Colorways: Gold Saffiano, Gold Floral Jacquard, Black Suede, Navy Suede, Leopard Suede, Taupe Suede, Sand Calf, Espresso Suede, Olive Filigree Suede, Merlot Suede
Materials: Triple-dyed Italian suede, patent leather, rubber
Additional features: Inset block heel, 6mm of extra padding, anatomical arch support, 2-inch heel
Pros: Quality arch support, wide toe box
Cons: Runs small
What reviewers say: “I wore my Perfect Emma (chocolate leopard) for a daytime date and stroll with my beloved that involved traipsing through Central Park (west to east and back!). By the late afternoon, I had not a single cut, and I’d put them on straight out of the box. I couldn’t be more pleased. Who doesn’t love not having to “break in” your shoes before enjoying themRead more about review stating Elegance and comfort?”
Colorways: White, Black, Brown
Materials: Leather
Additional features: .4-inch heel, leather sole, horsebit detail
Pros: Classic
Cons: Runs small
Colorways: Black and red
Materials: Leather and rubber
Additional features: 2.2-inch leather block heel, handmade stitching
Pros: Durable and timeless
Cons: Requires breaking in
Colorways: Black Suede, Rose Nappa, Burgundy Suede, Chocolate Suede, Chestnut Suede, Midnight Suede
Materials: Italian suede or leather
Additional features: 2.5-inch heel, supportive insole for all-day comfort
Pros: Easy to walk in
Cons: Runs small
What reviewers say: “I own two pairs of these heels and they are my go to heels for work or conferences. I’m a doctor so I only really wear normal shoes in clinic or at conferences. But I like to look out together when I can and these have been perfect.”
Colorways: Black, Cognac, Brown/Black Snake Print
Materials: Embossed leather
Additional features: 2½-inch covered block heel, synthetic sole, synthetic lining
Pros: Elegant and comfortable
Cons: Not for wide feet
What reviewers say: “This shoe looks exactly like the picture. The height and width of the heel provide a sense of security which I appreciate. It looks nice on my foot even though it was a little snug. I expect it will stretch.”
Colorways: Silver, Gold, Almond
Materials: Glove leather
Additional features: 50mm heel, adjustable ankle strap for ankle security
Pros: Can be dressed up or down
Cons: Not waterproof
Colorways: Gold
Materials: Nappa leather
Additional features: 1.57-inch heel, Pillow top insole of 8mm high-density memory foam
Pros: Statement-making
Cons: Runs small
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Comfortable Walking Sandals
Colorways: Adobe, Nice Blue, Black
Materials: 100% Leather
Additional features: 0.8-inch heel, round toe, roped bow
Pros: Durable and timeless
Cons: Narrow fit
Best for: Traveling
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Colorways: Navy, brown, black, tan, and more
Materials: Velvet, Suede, Calf Hair
Additional features: No-slip rubber sole, 10 mm heel
Pros: 7-layer comfort
Cons: Runs small
What reviewers say: “I recently purchased my first pair of Birdies for pharmacy school since I needed a shoe that was appropriate for the workplace yet comfortable enough to stand in for multiple hours a day. This shoe has been perfect so far! The cushioned insole and arch support combined with the soft suede make me feel like I’m walking around in supportive slippers all day.”
Colorways: Gold
Materials: Nappa leather
Additional features: 1.57-inch heel, Pillow top insole of 8mm high-density memory foam
Pros: Statement-making
Cons: Runs small
Related:
Comfortable Walking Sandals
Colorways: Adobe, Nice Blue, Black
Materials: 100% Leather
Additional features: 0.8-inch heel, round toe, roped bow
Pros: Durable and timeless
Cons: Narrow fit
Best for: Traveling
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What to Look for in Comfortable Dress Shoes
With so many brands in the game, there’s a comfortable and stylish dress shoe for any occasion. But with sartorial norms falling, it’s important to think closely about where you’re headed because not all dress shoes are created equal, and you want to make sure your pick is best for the specific road you’re planning to travel.
Style: Should you have a wedding, cocktail party, or important meeting on the horizon, there are many comfortable dress shoes for women that will get you there in style. You can choose between loafers, ballet flats, boots, pumps, mules, and more. If you want your toes to remain blister and fatigue-free but want height, “find a shoe with no more than a three-inch block heel and wide or flexible toe box,” says Dr. Najwa Javed, an associate at Silicon Valley Podiatry Group and founder of E’Mar Italy. A solid block heel provides posture support and ample balance, while a wider toe area leaves room for feet to expand as they may swell throughout the day.
Construction: Finding a pair of dress shoes that suits your foot type is also essential. “Choose a pair of shoes that match the shape of your foot,” says Dr. Sutera. “For example, if you have a square, wide foot or have bunions or hammertoes, avoid narrow, pointy toe boxes. Instead, opt for a rounder or square toe box.” And for women who experience the painful condition of plantar fasciitis, Dr. Sutera suggests shoes with a cushion, arch support, and a deep-seated heel cup. “Patients with plantar fasciitis usually find relief and reduction in symptoms when wearing shoes with a heel drop (where the heel is higher than the front of the shoe),” she says. “For this reason, they should avoid flat or platform styles.”
Certified pedoritht Michael Fishkin, a colleague of Dr. McEneaney at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, stresses the importance of midfoot and arch support. He explains that when body weight is distributed evenly, your foot is less apt to fatigue quicker. Therefore, selecting a breathable shoe constructed from moisture-wicking material will prevent sweaty feet. No matter your foot type, though, variety is key. “Don’t choose the same style in a few different colors, but instead have a few different options [to keep feet happy],” adds Dr. Sutera.
Size: “You wouldn’t believe how many people buy shoes that are the wrong size,” says explains Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM, board-certified foot surgeon at Sole Podiatry NYC and star of TLC’s “My Feet Are Killing Me,” adding that many foot problems are caused by shoes that don’t fit well, whether they’re too long, too short or too tight. “Some patients need custom-molded shoes with extra-heel depth or arch supports, which your doctor can prescribe,” he explains.
A range of on-trend, affordable labels like Everlane and Birdies and luxury brands like Sarah Flint and Gucci offer chic styles you can wear for hours without hobbling around in pain. From classic pumps to kitten heels and work-ready ankle booties, they include features like plush cushioning, chafe-reducing linings, and expanded toe boxes.
Comfortable Dress Shoes for Different Foot Types and Foot Problems
Dress Shoes for Flat Feet
If you have flat feet, look for wide shoes, “meaning they shouldn’t have an hourglass shape on the bottom,” says Dr. Fishkin. “Instead, they should have a straight-across design underfoot.” These types of shoes offer more space around the forefoot and the ball of the foot. Additionally, since people with flat feet tend to overpronate (meaning their feet roll inward as they walk), he suggests looking for shoes that provide enhanced stability and motion control.
Dress Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, a common inflammatory foot condition resulting in stabbing pain in the bottom of one or both feet, can result from wearing the wrong shoes. Those with tight, stiff feet will benefit from shoes with excellent structure and cushioning. For those with flexible feet, great stability is especially important. “However, no matter what, look for a shoe with arch support to increase the arch for those with flat feet and encourage high arches to drop to a more neutral position,” says Mike Rushton, DPM, co-founder and medical director of Forward Motion Orthotics in St. George, Utah.
Dress Shoes for High Arches
Those with high arches or who need extra arch support should look for shoes with built-in, well-padded, shock-absorbing insoles. “High-arched feet are best treated with supportive, softer, and more flexible, lightweight types of soles to accommodate the high arch,” says Dr. Sutera. “Avoid rigid, stiff, and thin flat shoes. The purpose of insoles and orthotics for those with high-arched feet is to accommodate, absorb shock, and cushion.”
Dress Shoes for Back Pain
If you get sore after standing on your feet all day, a dress shoe with shock absorption and strategic cushioning — labeled as orthopedic — is going to help relieve direct pressure on your pain points. Look for a shoe that doesn’t have a significant heel drop and fits well both in length and width to achieve correct foot alignment. Remember that one heel drop may feel good for one person but not the other, so it’s important to try on the shoe before committing to it.
Dress Shoes for Bunions
Heeled dress shoes may not be best for those with bunions, however, if you want to experiment with the silhouette, look for corrective shoes that stabilize the foot. That means digging around for shoes that have arch support and proper cushioning. Also, avoiding straight or narrow toe beds is important so that your toes have ample room to move around without rubbing uncomfortably against the lining.
Dress Shoes for Heel Spurs
Heel spurs, “a growth of bone on the bottom of your heel,” per Dr. Rushton, grow in the contour of your feet. “If your foot doesn’t have adequate padding beneath it, as you roll forward, you’re more likely to pinch between the bottom of the foot and the ground,” Dr. Rushton says. A cushioned heel and anatomical arch support will help promote healthy foot alignment so that the entire foot will absorb the impact of every step, rather than just the heel.
Dress Shoes for Wide Feet
If you feel pressure on the sides of your feet while wearing shoes, you likely have wide feet. “People with wide feet should avoid pairs with narrow, pointy, or a stiff toe box,” Dr. Sutera says. The forefoot of a pair should have ample room for toes, so wiggle your toes. If your feet feel constricted, the shoes are too tight.
Comfortable Women’s Dress Shoe Trends for 2024
Whether you typically opt for ballet flats, mules, or sky-high dress shoes, this season’s all about comfortability. Designers like Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Miu Miu have brought innovation to the forefront by delivering refined, polished, and relaxed silhouettes. Ahead, we breakdown the top comfortable women’s dress shoe trends for 2024:
- Sleek loafers: Understated loafers are back. From the iconic Gucci Princetown Loafer, an option for stylish mavens on the go, to Madewell’s Corrine Loafer, an easy alternative to an everyday white sneaker that won’t look out of place in smarter settings, there’s a style for every mood and occasion. Not only are designers proving that comfortable, sleek loafers are relevant, but celebrities are too. Blake Lively, Hailey Bieber, and Taylor Swift are a few who are trading their stiff stilettos for loafers. They’re styling these shoes with little black dresses, blazers, and midi skirts when running to and from meetings.
- Heeled loafers: While traditional penny loafers are synonymous with comfortability, heeled loafers are keen to subvert the stereotype. These reliable, hard-working pieces have a small stacked heel but are still sleek and super-comfy. Just ask Bella Hadid and Taylor Swift, both devotees of the heeled loafer. What to style these with? Just about everything. From casual denim and midi skirts to smart two-piece suits, heeled loafers transcend casual and formal occasions beautifully.
- Ballet flats: Feeding into Balletcore aesthetics, ballet flats have made a comeback — and they’re showing no signs of slowing down. While ballet flats used to take on simple, delicate designs, this season, we’re seeing an influx of edgy ones too. For instance, on the streets, celebrities like Melanie Hamrick, Melania Trump, Aliona Adrianova, and Katie Maloney have leaned into minimalist designs while others like Tracee Ellis Ross and Jennifer Lawrence have opted for ballet flats rendered in mesh or studs from the likes of Alaïa and The Row. Simply put, comfortable ballet flats are timeless; they defy age, height, and season, making them some of the most versatile styles to invest in. Find styles with sheen, straps, and unexpected adornments like Stuart Weitzman’s new Goldie Ballet Flat to add a bit of whimsy to your ensembles.
- Kitten heels: If you want an option that adds height, don’t fret. Low-heel, comfortable, closed-toe kitten heels have become the cat’s meow. While they’re not a new silhouette, we’ve seen them on the spring 2023 runways courtesy of Carolina Herrera, Bottega Veneta, and Saint Laurent. Their small-but-perfectly-formed heel provides just enough lift while their pointed toe adds polish and practicality, allowing any wearer bring them into fall. Take style inspiration from celebrities like Katy Perry and Julia Garner and fashion tastemakers such as Gabriella Karefa-Johnson and Katya Tolstova and team them with everything from ‘90s-inspired handkerchief dresses to flouncy ball skirts to give the classic workwear shoe a fashionable update.
How to Clean and Care for Dress Shoes
Picture this: You buy new dress shoes, and at first, you’re excited, removing the little scuff marks as they appear, but over time, they start to add up. You end up not tending to them, and your “new” dress shoes are destroyed, forcing you to purchase another pair much sooner than needed. It’s a vicious cycle. However, when you treat your dress shoes like an investment, you’ll protect your purchase for years. Here’s what you need to know to keep your dress shoe in tip-top shape:
- How to clean and care for suede shoes: To protect suede dress shoes from stains, start with a suede protector. They should also be sprayed monthly with waterproofing solutions. Suede stains extremely easily, so any suede shoes should be cleaned immediately. If your suede dress shoes have marks that have already set in, create a solution of two parts water and one part vinegar and apply it directly to the stain.
- How to clean and care for velvet shoes: Velvet is a luxurious fabric, but it’s also fine and requires special handling. If your velvet dress shoes have dirt on them, use a toothbrush or soft brush to remove excess dirt or dust. Make sure to brush in the direction of the nap to restore its sheen. If dirty from a spill or marking, lightly dab at the wet stain to soak up excess moisture. Then, mix water and dish soap in a small bowl and apply the solution with a soft cloth.
- How to clean and care for leather shoes: Leather shoes can last a lifetime if properly taken care of. Since shoes are subject to so much wear and tear daily, it is important to use a horsehair brush regularly to remove dust. Start by wiping your shoes with a warm sponge to make the leather more porous. Next, apply the waterproofing compound of your choice. About once a month, be sure to condition your shoes to help soften and moisten the leather to prevent any cracks. When you’re on the go, and your leather dress shoes suffer an unprecedented stain and a deep clean isn’t always possible, ensure you have shoe wipes handy.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Najwa Javed is a Board Certified Podiatrist and Founder of E’MAR Italy. Throughout her years of practice, she has focused on achieving an optimal state of health for her patients through mitigating foot and ankle injuries. With specialized training in foot and ankle surgery and clinical research, she integrates biomechanical stability with surgical innovation, biologic therapies, and modern science. With her brand, she is on a mission to shake up the luxury heel market with her line of supportive heels marrying high style with medical innovation, backed by her 15 years of expertise.
Dr. Jacquelyn Sutera is an NYC-based surgically trained doctor of podiatric medicine specializing in the prevention and treatment of foot pathology. She graduated from Fordham University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Philosophy. She later attended the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, where she earned the degree of Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). She is a proud member and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association and the New York State Podiatric Medical Society.
Michael Fishkin is a certified pedorthist at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists. He caters to those who have foot, back or knee problems to ensure they have the quality of life that they deserve.
Mike Rushton, DPM, is a co-founder and medical director of Forward Motion Orthotics in St. George, Utah. For over 25 years, he has been focusing on Sports Medicine and Biomechanics. He also travels extensively to promote JM Orthotics, a brand he co-founded, as one of the most forward-thinking Orthotic labs in the country.
Tyler Minor is a fashion stylist who found a penchant for fashion at a young age. Inspired by designers such as Heatherette and Zaldy Goco, Tyler decided to attend fashion school, where he graduated with a degree in fashion design and merchandising. Soon after, Tyler found himself working under and with some of the most influential stylists and photographers throughout the United States. Tyler’s keen eye for detail landed his name and work in many renowned publications. Those publications include Vogue, Inside Weddings Magazine, The Knot, Martha Stewart Weddings, Elegant Magazine, iMute Magazine, Country Weekly Magazine, People Magazine, and many others.
Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM, is a board-certified foot surgeon at Sole Podiatry NYC and star of TLC’s “My Feet Are Killing Me. He trained at a Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgical Residency Program at Hoboken University Medical Center. His podiatry focuses include sports medicine, wound care, and foot and ankle reconstructive surgery.
Meet the Author
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits shopping stories on celebrity style, the latest fashion trends, and new shoe releases. Before joining Footwear News, Chwatt wrote for publications, including Editorialist. In her spare time, she enjoys scrolling through her favorite retailers and social platforms to stay up to date on the latest, greatest, and classics of what people wear, buy and love. As a New York City native, Chwatt is always searching for the best dress shoes to get to work or special events comfortably. Learn more about us here.
