Figuring out how to master your wardrobe in a professional setting can sometimes be difficult to navigate. It’s often a tricky balance to personal style with professional style in a work setting—and shoes are no exception. The issue gets even more complicated when fashion enters the equation. What are the best styles to wear, and which ones should you skip in the office?
To find out from a veteran of both the fashion industry and a professional office setting, I asked Michelle Scanga from Who What Wear to weigh in with her take on which shoes are best to wear at the office—and the style she wouldn’t recommend. "Wearing shoes that you can’t confidently walk in is a big no in my book,” she says, "along with sky-high stiletto heels.”
While towering stilettos are a no in her book, she has some recommendations for what to wear instead. "I think it’s better to err on the more conservative side and opt for a moderate heel height,” she says, "or you really can't go wrong with a block heel.”
If you’re in the market for some new office-appropriate shoes that are also fashion girl–approved, go on to see my edit of the best new styles to add to your closet right now.
Moderate Heel Height
As Scanga recommends, a moderate heel height is always a great bet for the office. You can choose a style ranging from closed-toe slingbacks to open-toe sandals to ankle boots depending on your personal style and office culture.
These shoes are everywhere on the street style scene and a great option for the office as well.
Pumps this fall are finished with cool modern upgrades like these cutout side panels.
Another modern take on pumps.
You can't go wrong with a classic.
For a little edge without going over the top.
Try out an unexpected color like lime green, which we're seeing everywhere this season.
Sculptural heels are so trendy right now.
A croc finish is a great way to transition your boots to fall.
This style also comes in burgundy.
Strappy sandals are perfect for the office when paired with elevated trousers.
Block Heels
Another great office shoe style that Scanga recommends is block heels. The comfortable shoes are easy to walk in so are a great option to wear all day long.
Pair these with high-waisted trousers.
Some statement shoes you can wear to work.
These classic slingbacks get a cool upgrade with a snakeskin print.
Pair these with anything from a pencil skirt to a midi dress.
Slip into shoes from Jacquemus's fall collection.
Here's a summer style that can cross over to fall.
Look for boots with a block heel to pair with trousers and dresses.
Slouchy boots are everywhere for fall and are perfect for pairing with a long dress at the office.
This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated. Next: Shop my best purchases from this month.
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