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The best office shoes for women blend comfort and high-end looks, so you don’t have to choose between fashion and function the next time you get dressed for work. Although some DMV companies have adopted a more casual dress code after two-plus years of WFH, for many DC-area employees, business casual attire remains the norm. Even if you don’t work on Capitol Hill, a pair of lower-heeled shoes will always come in handy for formal meetings and work functions.
Here, we picked 13 pairs—from boots to pumps—with comfortable heels that are office-appropriate, easy to style, and will get you excited to return to the office.
Everlane “The Italian Leather Day Heel”
Say hello to your new go-to office shoe. This Everlane ballet-inspired pump has a two-inch block heel and a classic leather upper and it’s available in black, white, and taupe. The elasticized back and rounded toe were made with comfort in mind, while the timeless silhouette can easily be dressed up or down.
Salvatore Ferragamo “Vara Tartan Pumps”
Add a touch of Italian style to your work closet with these Salvatore Ferragamo pumps. This customer-favorite style is available in many options, but we love the tartan version in black and white for its versatility. The contrasting bow detail, round-toe design, and low-block heel make it a winner.
Wearing suede is a great way to add texture and variety to an all-black or dark work ensemble. This pair of classic booties have 1.75-inch block heels, side zip closures, and round toes. What makes them stand out is the height—they hit above the ankle, providing extra coverage on chilly days.
Matisse “Layover Kitten Heels”
Kitten heels are having a moment. This pair of slip-ons have a stylish two-inch suede-wrapped heel and a chic pointy-toe silhouette. This style also comes in soft blue and ivory.
To shop: $120, anthropologie.com
Loafers perfectly marry form and function. The inch-high heel on this pair adds an extra dose of office-appropriate formality while keeping you comfortable during meetings and work lunches— or even your morning commute.
To shop: $208, anthropologie.com
Asos Design “Skip Snaffle Detail Heeled Loafers”
Here’s another loafer to add to your work wardrobe. It has a block heel, keeping you comfortable throughout the day (and evening), and a stylish faux snakeskin upper. And since these come in classic black, they can be paired with absolutely anything—from pants to skirts, dresses, and even jeans. Another reason to add them to your cart stat? At $45, they are very budget-friendly.
Brave the elements with Reformation’s super stylish knee-high boots that are also a perfect office-ready footwear option. The square-toe/ kitten heel combo pairs well with dresses and pencil skirts.
To shop: $478, thereformation.com
Asos Design “Selene Mary Jane Shoes”
You may find yourself reaching for this pair of stylish Mary Janes again and again, whether you have an evening work event or need a more polished daytime look. We’ve worn them with dresses, skinny pants, jumpsuits, and skirts, with or without tights—they are the ultimate multitasker. And yes, that chunky heel is super comfortable (we’ve even traveled in these).
Iris & Ink “Elsie Leather Mules”
Keep these shoes under your desk year-round to slip into as soon as you get to the office. With kitten heels and an easy slip-on design, they are comfortable, classic, and versatile. Order half a size up since they run small.
Premium leather and beautiful design make this sophisticated pair by Tod’s a worthy investment that should last for years. The slanted chunky heel and burgundy hue freshen up the classic round-toe silhouette, which you can take from an office meeting to a work dinner.
Iris & Ink “Marigold Leather Pumps”
Looking for a new pair of timeless black pumps that go with everything? The Marigold by Iris & Ink comes with a sleek hourglass-inspired kitten heel and a classic pointy-toe silhouette, appropriate for any occasion.
Nordstrom “Pearla Ankle Strap Pump”
With a two-and-a-half-inch heel but footbed padding, this pair of pointy-toe pumps will give extra height while keeping you relatively comfortable throughout the workday. The adjustable ankle strap looks feminine and provides additional stability. This style is also available in tan, burgundy, and striking gold metallic.
Sam Edelman “Tarra Sling Heels”
Sam Edelman’s take on slingbacks comes with a low heel, squared toe, and mixed-material construction. The peek-a-boo design detail adds a playful element that is office- (and happy-hour) appropriate.
