13 of the Most Comfortable Dress Shoes for Women

By Lydia Mansel and Rebecca Carhart
Updated June 23, 2020
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
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Repeat after us: Uncomfortable dress shoes are not worth it. They’re not worth the blisters, the sore muscles, or the time you spend complaining about how uncomfortable they are.

Related:12 Men’s Dress Sneakers That Don’t Scream ‘Tourist’

It’s time to throw away those terrible heels you save for “special occasions,” you know the ones that start to rip apart your heels after just a few steps. Do you really need to haul an extra pair of shoes to work every day, just so you can survive your commute and obey the office’s unofficial dress code? And no, you can’t use the argument fashion is pain, either; you and your feet deserve better than that.

In order to save you some time (and completely avoidable foot pain), we’ve rounded up the most comfortable dress shoes for women. It doesn’t matter if you’re going to a work conference, wedding, funeral, or first date, each shoe style perfectly balances the right amount of style, formality, and comfort.
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Paul Green Susan Ankle Strap Sandal

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

Paul Green is known for producing high-quality comfortable shoes, and this pair of pumps further attests to the brand’s quality. The sleek dress shoes have a chunky low-block heel and thick ankle strap for added support, while the cushioned footbed makes them super comfortable to stand in.

 

To buy: amazon.com, from $260

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LifeStride Shane Slingbacks

Credit: Courtesy of Zappos

These chic heels from LifeStride feature a patented Soft System cushioned insole that offers complete comfort and plenty of support. Plus, the simple-yet-elegant slingback silhouette will look good with everything from skinny jeans to LBDs.

To buy: amazon.com, from $35

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Olivia K Close Round Toe Low Wedge

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

How cute are these short wedges by Olivia K? The 1.75-inch heel height makes them super easy to walk in, while the rubber sole gives them added traction. It’s just a bonus that the chic, closed-toe shoes come in nine stylish colors for you to choose from.

To buy: amazon.com, from $18

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SAS Moxie Kitten Heel

Credit: Courtesy of Zappos

Kitten heels are trending again thanks to their classic look and comfortable feel. We love this functional pair by SAS because the sheepskin lining and cushioned footbed mean it won’t hurt your feet — even if you opt to wear them all day long.

To buy: zappos.com, $285

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Naturalizer Banks Slingback

Credit: Courtesy of Zappos

Comfortable and beautiful are just two of the terms owners of the “Banks” Slingback use to describe this shoe. Since you can choose the width of the style — narrow, medium, or wide — you’ll leave those insufferable blisters around your toes in the past.

To buy: zappos.com, $59 (originally $99)

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Gucci Brixton Convertible Loafer

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

There’s a reason you see Gucci loafers everywhere you go. It can be worn dressed down with jeans, but paired with a black dress pant or office-appropriate dress, it’s the ideal dress shoe. Pro tip: Wear a pair of thin socks with your loafers for a few days at first; after that, the Italian leather will stay supple and smooth on your heels.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $790

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Nine West Pruce Block Heel Sandal

Credit: Courtesy of Zappos

Normally, you get what you pay fort when it comes to shoes. In the case of these suede block sandals from Nine West, that couldn’t be less true. If you’re looking for a last-minute dress shoe or a pair of heels you can dance all night in (hello, wedding season), drop that money and never look back.

To buy:zappos.com, $59 (originally $84)

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Stuart Weitzman Block Heel Bootie

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

Stuart Weitzman shoes are a red carpet staple, and the comfort is all in the details. This trendy sock bootie has a 3-inch block heel that adds height without strain.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $575

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Everlane Day Heel

Credit: Courtesy of Everlane

This versatile (and affordable) style is composed of several appealing features for comfortable shoe enthusiasts: a soft leather footbed, an elasticized back, and a 2-inch block heel. When we say this shoe can do it all, we also mean you can do it all while wearing them.

To buy: everlane.com, $145

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M.Gemi The Esatto

Credit: Courtesy of M.Gemi

You can’t get more classic than The Essatto from M.Gemi. Made by hand in Italy, these pumps will complete any dressed-up look with a striking dash of power. Plus, the open scooped topline relieves wider feet from any added discomfort.

To buy: mgemi.com, $278

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Sam Edelman Women's Hazel Dress Pump

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

If M.Gemi isn’t in your dress shoe price range, take a peek at this Sam Edelman style. Fit with four millimeters of cushioning, this pair will take you from board meeting to happy hour to post-dinner festivities without bringing along the pain normally associated with heels.

To buy: nordstrom.com, from $130

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Sarah Flint Alysia x Gravati Loafer

Credit: Courtesy of Sarah Flint

We couldn’t finish a list of the most comfortable dress shoes for women without another flat. The silhouette on this Sarah Flint loafer screams smart, but the heel height says peak comfort levels.

To buy: sarahflint.com, $395

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Cole Haan Tali Grand Bow Wedge

Credit: Courtesy of Zappos

Wedges are inherently more comfortable than a stiletto because they distribute your weight more evenly with each step. This smooth leather pair from Cole Haan has a fully padded leather sock lining that will only get more comfy with each wear.

To buy: zappos.com, $110 (originally $150)

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Zodiac Yolanda Espadrille Sandals

Credit: Courtesy of Zodiac Shoes

Events in the summertime call for strappy wedge heels, and these completely fit the bill. Not only are the bound to earn you every compliment, but they are unbelievably comfortable (editor's note: it's true, I can't take these off!), so they'll last you through entire work days and fun, warm nights.

To buy: zodiacshoes.com, $89

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By Lydia Mansel and Rebecca Carhart