The 20 Best Work Heels That Are Stylish Yet Comfortable

Best Overall

Inez Frida Heels

View On Inez.com

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

View On Hm.com $40

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

View On Reformation $278

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

View On Neiman Marcus $780 View On Net-a-Porter $780

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

View On Margauxny.com View On Maisonette.com

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

View On Nordstrom $132 View On Vagabond.com

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

View On Nordstrom $91 View On Bloomingdales $129

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

View On Larroude.com

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

View On Charleskeith.com

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

View On Nordstrom $70 View On Francosarto.com

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

View On Everlane.com $175

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

View On Net-a-Porter $237

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

View On Byfar.com

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

View On Duoboots.com

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

View On Ally.nyc

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

View On Sarahflint.com $495

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

View On Callashoes.com

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

View On Jcrew.com

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

View On Graymattersnyc.com

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