I Thought All Work Shoes Were Boring Until I Saw These 5 On-Trend Styles

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As someone who works full-time from home, I fluctuate between feeling envious of my office-going friends and grateful that I don't have to decipher a confusing workplace dress code. Every office is different, and years of lockdown have generally relaxed the rules, but fashion-related questions linger: Are jeans permissible? Can I get away with an above-the-knee hemline? And when asked to wear ‘smart shoes’, just how smart are we talking?

It seems to be generally agreed upon that having your toes on show is pushing the boundary slightly, but it's hard to know how much fun you can have with your footwear in the workplace. This particular dilemma has never been more pressing, with so many exciting new shoe trends to tap into this season. And if you spend 40 hours a week in the office, that limits the time you have to try them all out. Seems pretty unfair to us.

The good news is there are shoe trends you can take with you into the office. In fact, we've pinpointed five current styles that feel polished and professional, but will also show off your fashion know-how. Take a look below, then shop your favourites in time for your next big meeting.

1. Slingback Kitten Heels

Shoe trends for work: @juliesfi wears slingback kitten heels

(Image credit: @juliesfi)

Style Notes: If you prefer wearing a low heel to work, make it a slingback shape to chime with the Instagram style set. This particular silhouette (low heel, thin strap) is everywhere right now.

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2. Cherry-Red Pumps

Shoe trends for work: @bettinalooney red shoes

(Image credit: @bettinalooney)

Style Notes: Unless it says in your employee handbook to only wear neutral shoes to work, embrace the bright-red trend! This is an easy way to inject some colour and personality into your corporate attire.

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3. Minimal Loafers

Shoe trends for work: @anoukyve wears minimal loafers

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: Stepping into the office in loafers is the ultimate power move. They're classic, comfortable and suit everything from wide-leg trousers to ribbed midi dresses. This season, the more pared-back the better.

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4. Mary Janes

Shoe trends for work: @aidabadji_ wears Mary Janes

(Image credit: @aidabadji_)

Style Notes: With how we currently feel about Mary Janes, it's hard to imagine we'll ever tire of this dainty shoe style. Whether you choose a three-strap or one-strap iteration, it'll add a playful spin to your office look.

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5. Pointed-Toe Flats

Shoe trends for work: @marina_torres wears pointed flats

(Image credit: @marina_torres)

Style Notes: Pointed-toe flats, for whatever reason, look far more elevated than round-toe iterations. There's a directional feel to this season's leading pairs, which feature an ultra-sharp point that makes every outfit more sophisticated.

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Bébhinn Campbell
Freelance Fashion Editor

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

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