WFH has its perks. There’s no doubt about it. Then again, we never pass up an opportunity to dress the part, and that includes what we wear when going to the office or a coworking space. And PSA: Business casual doesn’t have to mean “boring.” Does this mean showing up to work in a black-tie gown? No. But if your office wardrobe is feeling a little stale, we’re here to help. And one of the fastest ways to re-up a 9-to-5 ‘fit check is via our list of best commuter- and office-friendly shoes.
If you’re on the hunt for some new professional kicks that will catch a compliment or two, look no further. For this edition of Hype Machine, we sourced several of the highest-rated, office-friendly footwear on the internet. Read on to learn more about them from actual customers who went in search of chic and comfortable shoes for their respective workplaces — and lived to tell all about their “sole” mates.
Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Best Ballet Flat
Dear Frances Balla Mesh Flat
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 3 reviews at Dear Frances
This editor-favorite pair of chic mesh flats is not only shockingly comfortable (and breathable, a rare trait for ballet flats) but seamlessly transitions from the office to post-work happy hour with the group chat. “These mesh ballet slippers are stunning, comfortable, and look great with everything!” raves one reviewer. “I haven’t stopped wearing them since they arrived! I usually wear a 38, and they fit true to size. So happy I purchased them.”
Shop Dear Frances
Dear Frances Balla Mesh, Black, $, available at Dear Frances
Best Low Block Heel
Everlane The Day Heel
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 5,018 reviews at Everlane
This heel is such a cult favorite that the brand restocked it after it sold out multiple times. And, with comfy features like an elasticized back and a modest two-inch block heel, it’s easy to see why reviewers continued to rave about this shoe even when it became a rare commodity. “For me, this style just speaks of running through the streets in Paris and I love it!” wrote everlane.com reviewer VansGrant. “Please bring these back, they are amazing. A small block heel which gives just a small lift and such a classic design.”
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Day Heel, $, available at Everlane
Best Low Mule
Sam Edelman Linnie Mule
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 184 reviews at Nordstrom
Slip-on mules have become a bona fide closet staple, and we are here for it. They’re comfortable for the walk to work and then to your favorite soup place for lunch, and they are stylish enough to be office-appropriate. What more could we ask for in shoes? One reviewer puts it best: “I purchased these shoes for work, but figured I could wear them casually too. I absolutely love them! I work them for a work conference and they were comfortable all day. Plus, I’ve worn them on the weekend to make my jeans and sweater look more put together.”
Shop Nordstrom
Sam Edelman Linnie Mule, $, available at Nordstrom
Best Loafer
Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer
The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars and 259 reviews at Madewell
“Words cannot describe. I’ve always loved loafers, but now that chunky loafers are in, I finally found ones that look good on me. These loafers are … *chef’s kiss* perfection,” writes reviewer Jessica, “Walking-on-cloud comfortable, stylish, and fun. I’m a size 6 and these fit everywhere except the top where there’s space that creates a farting noise when you walk, BUT wearing socks (no show or otherwise) helps remove that issue entirely. I cannot rave about these enough. I adore them.” Fake flatulence? Clearly, it’s no bother when it’s a shoe that’s this stylish and easy to wear.
Shop Madewell
Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer, $, available at Madewell
Best Lugsole Chelsea Boot
Sam Edelman Laguna Chelsea Boot
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 572 reviews at Sam Edelman
While not the classic Chelsea boot, Sam Edelman’s Laguna Chelsea Boot more than makes up for its deviation with a stylish lugsole. These weatherproof babies add flair to any fit with a heavy-duty sole, stretchy gore insets, and pull tabs on each side. One reviewer even calls them the “perfect Chelsea boot.” She adds she “wasn’t 100% sure about these when I received them[,] but they are so adorable. The slightly squared toe is super modern and I love how narrow they are which keeps chunky boots from looking like clown shoes. I have narrow feet so these were true to size but people with wider feet may want to size up. Excited to wear these all winter.”
Shop Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman Laguna Lug-Sole Chelsea Booties, $, available at Sam Edelman
Best Bootie
Marc Fisher LTD Yale Chelsea Boot
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 513 reviews at Nordstrom
“I feel it is my civic duty to tell you this. These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned,” writes one reviewer. “I had no idea how they’d fare after a long day on my feet, but I’m wearing them for the first time today, and honestly my feet have never been so happy. You must buy them. Don’t hesitate.” With a sensible 1.5-inch heel, pull-on style, and a chic pointed toe, this versatile bootie will pull together any kind of work outfit you’re assembling. The Yale also comes in a few suede browns and white or tan leather. “Another plus,” continues the reviewer, “These boots look way more expensive than they are. I’ve already been asked if they’re Acne. I just smiled.”
Shop Nordstrom
Marc Fisher LTD Yale Chelsea Boot, $, available at Nordstrom
Best Everyday Sneaker
Allbirds Women’s Wool Pipers
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 1,335 reviews at Allbirds
What’s not to love about these soft-as-slippers tennis shoes? They’re timeless, versatile, sustainably made, and machine-washable (!). “So comfortable and they go with everything! They’re my second pair of all birds,” writes reviewer Marissa. “I love my wool runners[,] but the look on these is more versatile — cute with jeans, athleisure, dresses, etc.” And because these are made with Allbirds’ famous ZQ Merino wool moisture-wicking (read: odor-eliminating) insole, you can feel confident about wearing these kicks every day.
Shop Allbirds
Allbirds Women’s Wool Pipers, $, available at Allbirds
Best Knee-High Boot
Clarks Pure Caddy Black Leather
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 17 reviews at Clarks
Don’t let the height deter you — this knee-high style has received a firm stamp of approval from comfort-seeking shoe wearers. “My third pair — these are my favorite boots ever,” writes one reviewer. “So flattering and perfect for pants or dresses. I am thrilled they are back in stock this year! Never quit selling these!”
Shop Clarks
Anne Klein Frida Boot, $, available at DSW
Best Kitten Heel Pump
Cole Haan Vandam Sling Back Pump
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 184 reviews at Cole Haan
Look no further for the best work shoe. She’s small, she’s sleek, she’s fierce and she’s comfortable — enough said. Cole Haan’s Vandam Pump is what dreams are made of. It’s perfect for both the office and drinks after work (with coworkers or a date, you decide). Best of all, it comes in four different colorways. As one reviewer puts it, “great combination of a classic slingback (a wardrobe staple) with nice padding in the forefoot and a manageable heel height. The pointy toe is not restricting at all. Wore the leopard print to work and got lots of interest!”
Shop Cole Haan
Cole Haan Vandam Sling Back Pump, $, available at Cole Haan
Best Block Heel Sandal
Lula Block Heel Slingback Sandal
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 761 reviews at Nordstrom Rack
If you’re looking for a flirty shoe that’s also acceptable for the office, look no further than this affordable BP. heel from Nordstrom Rack. “They are identical to the Cole Haan pair — just like them for 1/5 the cost,” wrote one reviewer. Another customer especially loved how this heel pairs well with warmer-weather outfits: “These sandals are perfect for summer. They will go well with sundresses and all linen dresses. Fits true to size.” And if black is a bit too conservative for your tastes, you’ll be glad to know this shoe comes in a variety of glittery, metallic, and iridescent options.
Shop Nordstrom Rack
BP. Lula Block Heel Slingback Sandal, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Best Oxford Shoes
Dr. Martens 1461 Smooth Leather Oxford Shoes
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 3,783 reviews at Dr. Martens
Hefty and made to last a long time, these Docs are more work-appropriate than the OG lace-up combat boots. Fans of this style range from young to old, with the latter raving about how the Oxfords are as comfy and supportive as their very first pair of Docs from decades earlier. “I have been wearing Dr. Martens since I was in high school. This is my first pair of Oxfords,” writes Devin, drmartens.com reviewer. Sturdy and durable, they are a great alternative to the sneaker if you’re particularly active and on your feet for most of the day.
Shop Dr. Martens
Dr. Martens 1461 Smooth Leather Oxford Shoes, $, available at Dr. Martens
Best Heeled Boot
Naturalizer Callie Lace-Up Boot
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 590 reviews at Amazon
Situated comfortably between the ankle bootie and the knee-high, this lace-up mid-calf option has a grippy lugsole, sturdy 3.25-inch block heel, and a side zip for easy on-off wear. “Finally bought these because I trust the brand Naturalizer to be comfortable. They fit perfectly and, true to the reputation of the brand, they are so comfortable,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. Out of the other work shoes in this roundup, this boot is likely to be an edgier, more creative option to spice up that cubicle life.
Shop Amazon
Naturalizer Callie Bootie Heeled Lace Up Boot, $, available at Amazon
Best Clog
FitFlop Shuv Leather Clog
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 590 reviews at FitFlop
It’s not your mother’s FitFlop anymore. Now there are all sorts of comfortable styles, including this cottage core-esque clog that works for any casual office while providing the same support for your footsies that FitFlop is known for.
Shop FitFlop
FitFlop Shuv Leather Clog, $, available at FitFlop
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