The 20 Best Work Heels of 2024

How we dress for work can have a powerful influence on our entire day — we tend to carry ourselves with more confidence when we look and feel good in what we’re wearing, after all. But regardless of what comprises our outfit, be it smart casual or business formal, comfort is imperative, especially when it comes to our feet. The good news? Work heels that won’t leave you aching by the end of the day are no longer just of the orthopedic variety, with plenty of trend-minded brands now putting their sartorial spin on functional footwear, thoughtfully designed with sensible heel heights and widths, as well as fancy features like arch support and plush cushioning.

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To help determine the best options out there, we read through countless customer reviews and consulted a team of workwear style experts and a podiatrist. Ahead, the best work heels that are polished, stylish, and, most importantly, comfortable.

Best Overall

Inez Frida Heels

Inez Frida Heels

Inez

What We Love: The style includes plush insoles, impact-absorbing and pressure-distributing cushioning, and foot-cradling arch support for maximum comfort.

What We Don’t Love: Its size range isn't very inclusive.

Spanish-made shoe label Inez designs its modern assortment of heels and boots with superior comfort and quality in mind, which is why we’re placing the Frida as our top pick. This sleek, square-toe pump checks all the boxes for day-long comfort. For starters, its 2.5-inch block heel provides much more support and stability than a stiletto. Moreover, it boasts proprietary pressure-regulating plush insoles, an embedded heel cushion to absorb impact, pressure-distributing foam at the ball of the foot, and cradling and stabilizing arch support — all at a price point that’s slightly under most other options with similar technology.

We appreciate that it’s available in three different foot widths — slim, standard, and roomy — for a more accurate fit, though it’s worth noting that its size range doesn’t go below a size 6 or above a size 10.5. It also comes in five stunning colorways (think mocha brown croc and buttery-soft black suede) that are neutral enough to get a ton of wear.

Material: Leather upper, lining, and sole | Colors: 5 | Size: 6–10.5; slim, standard, and roomy width | Heel Height: 2.5 inches

Best Budget

H&M Block-Heeled Pumps

H&M Block-Heeled Pumps

H&M

What We Love: Minimalist in design, this shoe allows for plenty of styling versatility.

What We Don’t Love: It’s not available in half sizes.

A solid pair of work heels shouldn’t have to break the bank. Case in point? This block-heeled pump from H&M. The silhouette is clean and simple, and there are plenty of thoughtfully designed features that make this shoe a winner in our book.

The thicker heel distributes weight and pressure more evenly across the foot than a standard stiletto, while its angular slant gives it a high-fashion feel. The squared toe is not just another trendy design element; it also provides more wiggle room for toes than a classic point, meaning you’ll be way more comfortable throughout the day. However, given the higher height of the heel and lack of footbed cushioning, we recommend placing a memory foam insert over the insole if your work day comprises standing for long periods of time.

Material: Polyester lining; polyurethane upper, sock, and sole | Colors: 1 | Size: 4–11 | Heel Height: 3.25 inches

Most Versatile

Reformation Mallori Closed Toe Heel

Reformation Mallori Closed Toe Heel

Reformation

What We Love: Lustrous patent leather and an ankle strap add an air of dressiness to these simple block heels.

What We Don’t Love: It has no cushioning or arch support.

Given that work schedules are often packed with after-work activities like client dinners and team drinks, we appreciate any shoe that can easily transition from day to night, like this sweet style from Reformation. It features plenty of design elements that ensure day–long comfort —  an extra-wide mid-height block heel for even weight distribution, a rounded toe that won’t smush your toes, and ankle support for better stability — but the shiny patent leather, delicate ankle strap, and low, open vamp deem it just as apt for a night out on the town (it also begs to be paired with a frilly white sock, if you ask us). Plus, the brand’s transparency surrounding its sustainability practices gives us all the more reason to click “add to cart.”

Material: Leather | Colors: 2 | Size: 5–11 | Heel Height: 50 millimeters

Best Splurge

Amina Muaddi Ami Lambskin Pedestal Pumps

Neiman Marcus Amina Muaddi Ami Lambskin Pedestal Pumps

Neiman Marcus

What We Love: This style is a fun twist on a classic silhouette.

What We Don’t Love: It runs small.

If you’re looking to invest in a pair of work heels, opt for something that’s classic enough to wear for years to come but possesses some interesting detail or element of surprise that makes them stand out and, thus, worthy of their higher price tag. Amina Muaddi’s Ami pumps do just that, putting a twist on a tried-and-true silhouette by adding the brand’s signature flared pedestal heel for a shoe that feels polished and refined yet makes just enough of a statement apt for the office.

Quality is important, too, and the Paris-designed, Italian-made brand offers true luxury and superior craftsmanship. The pedestal heel also helps distribute weight more evenly, like a block heel, but at 3.75 inches, it’s definitely on the higher side. Without any added cushioning or arch support, it may not be ideal if your job keeps you on your feet. 

Material: Lambskin leather upper and lining; leather and rubber outsole | Colors: 2 | Size: 5–13 | Heel Height: 3.75 inches

Best Pump

Margaux The Heel

Margaux The Heel

Margaux

What We Love: It features 5 millimeters of cushy foam padding and molds to your foot over time.

What We Don’t Love: Pre-orders take up to 12 weeks to ship.

Traditional pumps have a not-so-great reputation for being uncomfortable, but Margaux’s M.O. is creating stylish, thoughtfully designed footwear that’s anything but. The Heel is the brand’s take on the classic work heel, and it’s garnered a cult following for good reason.

It features 5 millimeters of plush foam padding, the brand’s signature comfortable 2.5-inch block heel, and a structured, supportive fit that molds to your foot over time. The style is offered in a super-inclusive size range, which, in addition to spanning a size 3 to a size 14, includes three different widths, and the brand even offers a free concierge service to ensure you find your best fit. We also appreciate that Margaux has continued to perfect the style over time, meaning its comfort levels will only continue to improve.

Material: Italian suede upper; leather lining | Colors: 11 | Size: 3–14; narrow–wide | Heel Height: 2.5 inches

Best Kitten Heel

Vagabond Tilly Pumps

Vagabond Tilly Pumps

Vagabond

What We Love: The wider, flared heel base makes these kitten heels more comfortable than their stiletto counterparts.

What We Don’t Love: There isn't any arch support or cushioning.

Of all the heel shapes and types, kitten heels and block heels are the most comfortable, and this pair from Vagabond marries the best of both worlds. While it’s not a true block heel, the wider, flared base acts similarly to distribute pressure more evenly across the heel, while the lower height equates to a lower chance of aches and pains after a long day.

Comfort aside, the silhouette is a sleek and modern twist on the classic pump that’s still just as versatile. Plus, the longer, pointed toe can actually help the legs look longer, which is always a plus. We also appreciate the brand’s commitment to selecting lower-impact materials for all its shoes and accessories.  

Material: Leather | Colors: 4 | Size: EU36–EU40 | Heel Height: 60 millimeters

Best Mule

Sanctuary All Night Mule

Nordstrom Sanctuary All Night Mule

Nordstrom

What We Love: It features a memory foam insole for added comfort.

What We Don’t Love: The pointed toe may cause pain over time.

If you’re dealing with any sort of tendon pain in the back of your heel, you’ll appreciate the open-back silhouette of the mule. It won’t rub or irritate the tendons, and it also rules out the chance of developing painful heel blisters. Foot pain aside, it's a simply an easy, effortless style that looks polished and professional.

These mules from Sanctuary are made for long days at the office (and long nights out afterward), thanks to a cushy memory foam insole and lower kitten heel. And while the design itself is minimalist, the geometric hardware makes these feel slightly more dressed up, another reason to wear them day-to-night. We also love that the brand ensures that at least 50 percent of the leather used in its major components is sourced from a Leather Working Group-rated tannery for responsible energy and waste practices.

Material: Leather upper and lining; synthetic sole | Colors: 3 | Size: 5–11 | Heel Height: 2 inches

Best Slingback

Larroudé Ines Pump

Larroudé Ines Pump

Larroudé

What We Love: It features a memory foam insole for added comfort.

What We Don’t Love: The velvet upper isn’t functional for rainy days.

There’s much to love about these sleek little slingbacks from It girl-favorite brand Larroudé. For starters, slingbacks provide a similar open-back airiness as a mule but with the added support of a singular strap, making them a practical choice for days you’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet. The Ines Pump happens to also be designed with a cushioned memory foam insole and a modest mid-heel to ensure your feet aren’t aching by the end of the day. We’re eyeing the burgundy velvet style as we approach the holiday season, but for a more practical, everyday option, it also comes in more wearable shades of black, ivory, and silver leather.

Material: Velvet upper, leather sole | Colors: 4 | Size: 5–11 | Heel Height: 2.5 inches

Best Mary Jane

Charles & Keith Pointed-Toe Mary Jane Pumps

Charles & Keith Pointed-Toe Mary Jane Pumps

Charles & Keith

What We Love: These pumps are an affordable way to try a trendier style.

What We Don’t Love: The pointed toe may be uncomfortable for toes over time.

The Mary Janes has made a comeback in recent seasons, and the sensible shoe also happens to be a great option for work given its polished appearance. We’re partial to this metallic pair from Charles & Keith — it comes with a pretty reasonable price tag, a plus for anyone looking to try out the trend without breaking the bank. The slightly flared block heel also makes these a lot more comfortable than a stiletto, especially when worn for longer hours.

According to stylist Michaela Leitz, Mary Janes are especially suited to women with hourglass figures. “The strap adds a visually interesting element that complements the balanced proportions of an hourglass figure,” she says. “Plus, they’re versatile enough to be paired with both skirts and trousers, making them a great addition to any work wardrobe.”

Material: Faux leather | Colors: 3 | Size: 4–11 | Heel Height: 6 centimeters

Best Wedge

SARTO by Franco Sarto Carina Square Toe Wedge Pump

Nordstrom SARTO by Franco Sarto Carina Square Toe Wedge Pump

Nordstrom

What We Love: The wedged heel provides more comfort and stability than a traditional pump.

What We Don’t Love: The squared toe is quite narrow, which may cause toe discomfort over time.

Blame it on the Y2K renaissance of the last few years, but the wedge is back, baby! While we’ve seen plenty of ’90s- and early aughts-inspired styles emerge in recent seasons — chunky, bedazzled, lucite, and more — there are also plenty of sensible, office-appropriate options to come from this revival, too.

This pair from SARTO by Franco Sarto is a perfect example, adding a sculptural wedged heel to a traditional pump silhouette and squaring out the toe ever so slightly. But they’re not just pretty to look at — in general, wedges are a great option for the office due to how well they support the feet. “They provide the height of a traditional heel but with much more comfort and stability, making them an excellent choice for anyone who’s on their feet all day,” says Leitz. They also feature a cushioned footbed with arch support for additional comfort.

Material: Leather or genuine calf-hair upper; synthetic lining; and rubber sole | Colors: 4 | Size: 5–11 | Heel Height: 3.25 inches

Best Block Heel

Everlane Italian Leather Day Heel

Everlane The Italian Leather Day Heel

Everlane

What We Love: It features an elasticized back for extra comfort.

What We Don’t Love: This shoe has a narrow fit, which may be uncomfortable for those with wider feet, and sizing is somewhat inconsistent.

A block heel is one of the most foot-friendly shoe options for anyone required to be on their feet all day yet still wants a bit of height. Providing much more support and stability than its stiletto counterparts, it helps reduce the amount of pressure put on your feet — meaning a much lower chance of aches and pains by the end of the day.

Everlane’s Day Heel is a solid choice, given its easy-to-style color offering, rounded toe cap (no squished toes here!), and 2-inch heel — the height maximum recommended by podiatrist Dr. Sondema N. Tarr, DPM, for comfortable wear. Bonus points for the elasticized backing that stretches around your heel rather than digging into it, avoiding the heel pain and blistering we often associate with closed-back shoes. (If you’ve ever worn a stiff flat or loafer all day before properly breaking them in, you know what we’re talking about.)

Material: Leather | Colors: 3 | Size: 5–11 | Heel Height: 2 inches

Best Loafer

Aeyde Anka Leather Loafers

Net-A-Porter Aeyde Anka Leather Loafers

Net-A-Porter

What We Love: The extra-chunky block heel provides great support and pressure distribution.

What We Don’t Love: The style doesn’t have any arch support or cushioning.

We’d be remiss not to include a loafer on this list, especially considering its hold on the fashion girlies in recent seasons. The classic penny loafer has long been a favorite for business casual dress codes, but we love the added sophistication and cool of a chunky block heel and a sharp squared toe via this pair from Berlin-based label Aeyde. The brand is a favorite of Sali Christeson, founder and CEO of workwear label Argent, who notes its great selection of comfortable and work-friendly mid-height heels. The Anka features an extra-wide 2-inch heel for excellent support and comfort, making it a suitable option if your work day consists of standing for long periods or running around town.

Material: Leather | Colors: 1 | Size: IT35–IT42 | Heel height: 2 inches

Best Sandal

By Far Tanya Sandals

By Far Tanya Sandals

By Far

What We Love: The minimalist style is easy to dress up or down.

What We Don’t Love: It has no cushioning or arch support.

If you’re able to wear sandals to work, we suggest opting for a style that’s simplistic in design with a low- to mid-height heel — something cool and comfortable, and definitely not a flip-flop. 

Our pick is the fan-favorite Tanya Sandals from cult shoe label By Far, which will quickly become the most versatile warm-weather shoe in your wardrobe. The simple style pairs a geometric block heel with two slim straps and a trendy squared toe for a barely-there shoe that looks good with just about anything, be it workwear, beachwear, or your favorite going-out top. In addition to a lineup of neutral hues, it’s also available in a few punchy colors that, given its minimalist design, pack just the right amount of punch for the office without going overboard.

Material: Leather | Colors: 8 | Size: EU35–EU41 | Heel height: 6.7 centimeters

Best Boot

DuoBoots Dalia Standard Knee High Boots

DuoBoots Dalia Standard Knee High Boots

DuoBoots

What We Love: This boot is available in an inclusive range of calf widths and shaft heights.

What We Don’t Love: Despite its calf-inclusivity, it doesn’t offer narrow or wide-foot options.

A simple knee-high boot can act as a comfortable alternative to a work heel, but shopping for a pair presents a unique struggle: Most boots, especially styles that are more fitted, are only offered in one calf width and typically don’t have enough stretch to accommodate an inclusive range of calf sizes. That’s what DuoBoots has set out to solve, offering its boots in eight different calf widths between 30 and 50 centimeters.

We love the Dalia in particular for its sleek and minimalist design that includes an elasticated calf, memory foam insole, comfortable mid-heel, and the fact that it’s available in three different shaft heights: petite, standard, and tall. However, we think it would be even better if it also offered narrow and wide foot sizing.

Material: Leather | Colors: 3 | Size: 5–12; 30–50 centimeters calf width; petite–tall shaft heights | Heel Height: 6.8 centimeters

Best for Wide Feet

Ally Shoes Lower Block Heel

Ally Shoes Lower Block Heel

Ally Shoes

What We Love: In addition to plenty of comfortable features, it’s available in four different widths and 29 different colors and prints.  

What We Don’t Love: Some sizes and widths are made-to-order, resulting in a three to four-week shipping period.

If you have wide feet, Dr. Tarr strongly advises against squeezing your foot into an average-width shoe, as it’ll likely cause foot problems over time like swelling, pain, and the development of corns. Thankfully, plenty of shoe brands carry wide sizing to accommodate a variety of widths. Ally Shoes is one of the most innovative of the bunch, offering narrow, regular, wide, and extra-wide widths, making it a favorite of stylist Alison Bruhn. “It makes heels that are scientifically engineered to alleviate pain with a patented, ergonomic support structure,” she says. “The fact they’re available in four different widths is a huge plus, as that’s not very common.”

The Lower Block Heel is an excellent option for work thanks to its wide 2-inch heel, which hits that height sweet spot recommended by Dr. Tarr, and features the brand’s ergonomic insole and arch support. Plus, it comes in an impressive 29 different colors and prints.

Material: Leather upper and sole; suede lining | Colors: 29 | Size: 4–12; narrow–extra wide width | Heel Height: 2 inches

Best for Flat Feet

Sarah Flint Perfect Emma

Sarah Flint Perfect Emma

Sarah Flint

What We Love: It features arch support, a cushy footbed padding, and an expanded toe box.

What We Don’t Love: Most colorways have a tortoise heel, which may be tougher to match than a solid shoe.

A common condition is flat feet, which, as the name implies, is when the foot’s arch flattens anytime there’s pressure, such as simply taking a step. To no surprise, this can result in a lot of aches and pains when an unsupportive shoe is worn, which is why it's recommended for folks with flat feet to look for shoes with ample arch support — like a pair from Sarah Flint. The Bruhn-recommended brand was founded on the principle that beautiful shoes can be actually comfortable, too.

This pair provides the anatomical arch support that flat feet require in addition to 6 millimeters of footbed padding for an extra comfy feel. Dr. Tarr points out that heels with pointed toes tend to be uncomfortable, so we love that this pair includes an expanded toe box to prevent further aches and pains. 

Material: Leather/suede upper; leather lining, insole, and outsole | Colors: 8 | Size: 4–13 | Heel Height: 2 inches

Best for High Arches

Calla Mary Jane

Calla Mary Jane

Calla

What We Love: In addition to built-in arch support, this shoe is designed to be spacious for toe (and bunion) comfort.

What We Don’t Love: The patent heel can scuff easily.

Another common foot condition that can benefit from arch support is high arches, the opposite of flat feet. Because the middle of the foot doesn’t fully touch the ground, it’s important to find a shoe that provides the middle-foot support needed, as well as padded insoles to absorb shock and help relieve excess pressure on the balls of the feet and heels.

We love this pair from Calla because it not only provides both types of support but it’s specifically designed not to squeeze or irritate the foot. In fact, the brand was founded as a stylish yet effective footwear solution for folks suffering from bunions. The result? An extremely comfortable, well-designed heel that looks anything but orthopedic.

Material: Leather upper and lining | Colors: 3 | Size: 5–11 | Heel Height: 2 inches

Best Metallic

J.Crew Leona Slingback Heels

J.Crew Leona Slingback Heels

J.Crew

What We Love: Croc detailing makes the metallic leather feel super sophisticated. 

What We Don’t Love: The squared toe is quite narrow, which may cause toe discomfort over time.

Metallics are a great way to infuse some excitement into your day-to-day work attire, so long as the shoe itself feels polished and sophisticated. We’re fans of these slingbacks from J.Crew, which are designed with a leg-lengthening elongated square toe and crafted from a croc-embossed silver leather that feels a tad more grown-up than a traditional smooth, high-shine finish. The kitten-height heel and adjustable slingback strap are ultra-comfy and provide great stability, making them an all-around great pick for a day at the office. We recommend letting them stand front and center, keeping the rest of your outfit understated to not overpower them.

Material: Leather upper and lining; rubber outsole | Colors: 3 | Size: 5–12 | Heel Height: 70 millimeters

Best Statement

Gray Matters Egg Mules Nero Rosso

Gray Matters Egg Mules Nero Rosso

Gray Matters

What We Love: The unique egg-shaped heel is low for added comfort.

What We Don’t Love: It's tougher to style than a classic kitten heel. 

Should your office dress code allow it, we wholeheartedly support having a little fun with your work heels — as they’re practical, too. Gray Matters, another brand Christeson counts as a favorite for its solid offering of mid-height heels, offers an array of unique options like the above. Minimalist in design save for its off-kilter egg-shaped heel, these mules will pair easily with just about any pair of trousers, skirt, or dress and are guaranteed to stand out. The almond-shaped toe provides a little more breathing room than a pointed one, and the V-shaped vamp is an especially flattering cut that provides slightly more coverage than the average pump. In short, the shoes are a conversation piece, and with a heel height under 2 inches, you can trust they won’t leave you in pain at the end of the day.

Material: Leather | Colors: 3 | Size: IT35–IT42 | Heel Height: 1.6 inches

Best Animal Print

Katy Perry The Laterr Slingback Pump

Nordstrom Katy Perry The Laterr Slingback Pump

Nordstrom

What We Love: The flared heel helps better distribute weight and pressure across the foot for a more comfortable fit.

What We Don’t Love: The metallic heel can scuff easily.

Like metallics, animal print shoes have the power to imbue a dopamine-boosting playfulness into an otherwise understated work, and these Katy Perry slingbacks do just the trick. Trend-forward with a wallet-friendly price tag, they’re available in two different shades of snakeskin — mustard and a multi-colored red — both of which are subdued enough to pair seamlessly with just about anything. More importantly, they’re thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind, boasting a 2-inch spool heel and a cushioned footbed that makes these prime for wearing to the office, after-work drinks, and beyond. 

Material: Synthetic upper and lining; synthetic rubber sole | Colors: 4 | Size: 5–11 | Heel Height: 2 inches

What to Keep in Mind

Heel Height and Width

Preferences on heel height will vary from person to person — more on that below — but as a general rule of thumb, you should stick to shopping for heel heights you already feel comfortable walking in, or lower. “If you’re wearing them to work, it’s definitely better for the heel to be lower rather than higher,” says Dr. Tarr. The width of a heel plays just as important a role in a shoe’s comfort level as the height — the wider, the better. “I prefer a heel that’s slightly more substantial so I can be on my feet at the office, in our stores, or on the subway comfortably for several hours at a time,” Christeson says. She previously recommended shoes from brands like Gray Matters and AEYDE, which offer great mid-height options with plenty of width. 

Extra Support and Cushioning

The concept of only buying comfortable shoes may seem like a given, but more often than not, we shop with style in mind over everything else. “But if the shoes aren’t comfortable, you won’t wear them — they’ll sit in your closet and make you feel guilty,” warns Bruhn. That said, folks with flat feet, with high arches, or who are especially prone to soreness should seek out options with plenty of cushy and supportive features. Shoes specifically designed with style and comfort in mind — think similar features to orthopedic shoes like built-in arch support or memory foam insoles — are a good place to start, such as the Sarah Flint Perfect Emma or the Sanctuary All Night Mule.

Toe Shape

Toe shape is also important to consider — and, in some cases, the pointier the heel, the less comfortable the shoe might be. “Even though pointed toes look great, they’re not ideal for wearing all day long, as they can squish your toe, which leads to toe pain,” Dr. Tarr says. She recommends opting for something with a toe that’s more rounded than pointed — and lucky for us, square toes are still enjoying a moment in the spotlight. Reformation’s Mallori Closed Toe Heel and Calla’s Mary Jane are great options for a true square toe, while the Inez Frida and J.Crew Leona Slingback Heels offer the perfect in-between.

Silhouette

Comfort aside, the shape and silhouette of the shoe are also important to keep in mind, as different styles can complement different body types, explains Leitz. “For instance, block heels [like Ally’s Lower Block Heel] provide balance and stability for curvier body types, while stiletto heels [like Larroudé’s Ines Pump] can elongate the silhouette of a petite women,” she says.

Your Questions, Answered

What are the best heel heights for work?

What constitutes an ideal heel height for work will vary from person to person, says Bruhn. “Some people are comfortable in high heels and can wear them all day long, every day, while others need more support,” she says. That said, for those not a fan of high heels, Bruhn, Christeson, and Leitz suggest kitten heels — to be more specific, Dr. Tarr recommends a heel of 2 inches or less. “They’re the underdogs of the heel world, unassumingly elegant and subtly powerful without sacrificing comfort,” says Leitz. Just opt for a block heel and a shoe with a back, rather than an open mule, to be extra comfortable, adds Bruhn.

This doesn’t necessarily mean higher heels should be off-limits, but you may want to find something with additional cushioning or support or add on your own gel insert to minimize any potential end-of-day soreness. It also goes without saying that while heels have long been associated with working women in the office, times have most definitely changed. “In the ever-evolving world of fashion, the notion that high heels equate to professionalism is as outdated as shoulder pads and perms,” says Leitz. That said, you can certainly still look polished and professional in flat shoes — just ask Christeson, who often pairs full suits with sneakers or loafers.

What are some tips for preventing blisters and other foot problems when wearing heels to work?

Is anything worse than throwing on a pair of heels and running out the door, only to realize five minutes in that the back is rubbing your heel and causing a blister to form? (The answer is no.) While Bruhn recommends keeping bandages in your bag or desk drawer at all times just in case, her trick of the trade is using moleskin padding. “It helps if you have one toe or one specific area of your foot that’s uncomfortable,” she says. “You can cut an individual square and put it over the tender area, which protects it from rubbing and pressure from the shoe.” If the balls of your feet get achy, she recommends applying a CBD cream or balm for some relief — a stylist trick for celebrities on the red carpet.

Of course, if your work day allows, you can always reduce the amount of time you’re wearing them. “Bring a pair of flats, sandals, or tennis shoes with you to work that you can either change into while sitting at your desk or wear during your commute,” says Tarr. “The less time you spend in the heels, the lower your risk of foot pain.”

What are the best ways to break in your work heels, if needed?

We all love the look of a sparkly new pair of shoes, but they typically need some breaking in to be comfortable enough for all-day wear, especially with stiff leather. Leitz recommends doing it before you leave the house. “The first order of business is to put on the thickest, most comfortable socks in your drawer and slide into those new heels,” she says. “Take a stroll around your home, perhaps partake in a dance session to your favorite tunes, or even tackle the day’s tasks from the comfort of your home office, if you’re able to. This initial step will not only allow the shoes to comfortably stretch but also infuse a touch of high-fashion drama into your usual work-from-home routine.”

For extra stubborn shoes, Leitz recommends the newspaper trick, which entails stuffing your shoes with damp newspaper overnight to gently stretch the leather to better accommodate the shape of your foot. “Damp, not soaking,” she says. “You wouldn't want to compromise the integrity of the shoe.” And if all else fails, she recommends leaving it to the professionals. “Shoemakers possess the necessary tools and expertise to widen shoes without inflicting damage," she adds.

Why Shop With Us

Jenna Igneri is a freelance writer who has been working in fashion and beauty media for over a decade. You can find her work in Refinery29, Byrdie, Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Coveteur, and more.

For this story, she researched and read reviews on dozens of work heels and consulted a team of footwear experts — podiatrist Dr. Sondema N. Tarr, Argent CEO and founder Sali Christeson, and stylists Michaela Leitz and Alison Bruhn.

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