By Audree López
There is nothing worse than being in the middle of an awesome event or conversation and suddenly being overcome with the intense pain from your high heels. Maybe it’s my old age of 23, or maybe I’m sick of changing from commuting shoes to desk shoes, but your girl just wants some comfortable footwear! Not the orthopedic kind, but some cute, trendy duds that I can wear to work, at work, and to an event after. I only want to have to worry about shaking hands and taking names—not how uncomfortable my shoes are. That’s the New York dream, isn’t it?
When I interned in the city a couple years ago, I wore heels almost every day at the office. Now that I live here, I can count on two hands the amount of times I’ve actually worn my heels. And trust me, they’ve never joined me on my commute. Whether you’re in the editorial, fashion, beauty, or art department, here’s a breakdown of the five hottest shoe trends of the season that you can wear all day, from office to play.
The Modified Stiletto
You will never catch me in stiletto heels for a 12+ hour day. I am not Superwoman, nor do I try to be. I know as soon as my feet hurt, I am out of commission. When I have a nice event to go to after work and want to wear a heel, I opt for a stacked one. The chunky heel gives your foot more support and you can wear a shorter heel without feeling like you’re entering librarian kitten heel land.
These are great for a nicer event or cocktail hour. Pair them with your business dress or pencil skirt and you’re good to go.
Jeffery Campbell | Charlotte Russe | Nordstrom Rack | Tony Bianco | Sam Edelman | Nine West | Steve Madden | Louise et Cie
The #GirlBoss Shoe
Are you running around the city picking up samples? Hopping on the subway between meetings? Or maybe your feet hurt after a night of dancing? Go for a comfortable menswear-inspired oxford or loafer. You’ll feel invincible on your busiest day, and your feet will thank you.
These can be dressed down with a tailored pant or culottes for a networking event, or dressed up with a pleated skirt or dress for a nicer/trendy event.
Shellys London | Adrianna Papell | Nine West | Nine West | Rebecca Minkoff | Steve Madden | Antonio Melani | French Sole
Not Your Grandma’s Mule
I never realized how popular mules were until I started working at a magazine—sure they’re chic and unconventional, but they’re basically the cheat sheet to heels. They’re no fuss to put on—you legit just slide them on—and they’re just as comfortable (if not more) than any other chunky heel. The flat versions are pretty darn cute too!
These are great for more casual events, and you can pair them with a flowy dress or pair of jeans. They’re effortlessly cool and great for a minimalistic detail.
Topshop | Donald J Pliner | Carvela | Vince Camuto | Topshop | Halston | Sam Edelman | QVC
The Cool Girl Summer Sandal
The first time I wore a platform sandal I fell over a couple times; the balance was different than any other heels I have worn in the past, but I soon fell in love with them. These are great substitution for your casual T-strap or gladiator sandals.
Going to happy hour with co-workers or a team dinner? Pair these with a fun summer dress and you’ll look polished, comfortable, and chic.
Steve Madden | Louise et Cie | Macy’s | Luisaviaroma | Stuart Weitzman | Selfridges | Shoptiques | Sam Edelman
The Not-So-Commuter Shoe
Maybe it’s casual Friday or you decided to not change out of your commute shoes—either way, these casual options are great for a super chill day at work, and an even chiller night after. Pair them with your favorite graphic tee and jean or jogger.
Adidas | Michael Kors | Nike | Mistra | Nine West | Kate Spade | Matisse | Matisse
Audree Kate is a fashion stylist and blogger of Simply Audree Kate. She loves thrift shopping, lipstick and finding the most grammable coffee shops in the city. Follow her on Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.
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