Heels are stylishly effective and possess the power to elevate your look. However, finding a comfortable heel that won’t leave you limping around the office seems almost impossible.
Unfortunately, some heels, no matter how cute they look, are poorly fit and offer terrible foot support. With constant wear, these heels may cause corns, blisters and calluses. To help you feel comfortable and stylish in any heel at work, 21Ninety spoke with podiatrist Dr. Megan Ishibashi on to get her heel recommendations.
What Type of Heels Should You Wear?
According to Ishibashi, heels should have comfortable material.
“When I look for heels, I always want to make sure that the leather or the material that’s around the side of your foot is softer,” Ishibashi told 21Ninety. “If it’s too stiff, it’s going to cut into the skin and put pressure on the bony areas.”
Additionally, she also mentioned that heels should support the balls of your feet. However, she noted that not every heel is going to feel like you’re walking on pillows, especially if you wear them for hours.
“I always look for something that is really padded and cushioned,” Ishibashi said. “If I know I’m going to be in high heels all day long, [then] I’ll usually add either a gel cushion to my forefoot or a metatarsal pad.”
In addition, the podiatrist suggested urea cream and hydrocolloid band-aids to manage foot issues post-heel wear.
- Best Stiletto Heels: Cole Haan Christena Ankle Strap Sandal
- Best Classic Black Pump: Vince Camuto Divinah Pump
- Best Block-Heel Bootie: Naturalizer Kalina-Bootie Block Heel Booties
- Best Classic Pointed-Toe Heel: Naturalizer Astrid T-Strap Dress Pumps
- Best Open-Toed Heel: Vionic Zinfandel Sandal
Best Stiletto Heels
Cole Haan Christena Ankle Strap Sandal
An open-toed sandal can add a flirty vibe to any workwear outfit. The Christena Ankle Strap Sandal by Cole Haan features an animal-inspired print and a fall-themed chocolate shade. For added comfort, these strappy stilettos also include a cushioned footbed.
Best Classic Black Pump
Vince Camuto Divinah Pump
When you’re experiencing a work fashion emergency, a classic black pump is a must have backup. Vince Camuto Divinah Pump offers an easy slip-on heel with a balanced block heel and a padded footbed.
Best Block-Heel Bootie
Naturalizer Kalina-Bootie Block Heel Booties
Sometimes, heels aren’t the vibe for work outfits, especially when the weather gets colder. To deliver the same elegance of a strappy stiletto, heel booties are a good alternative. Ishibashi recommends Naturalizer as one of the most comfortable brands. These Kalina-Bootie Block Heel Booties feature stylish double-wide sizes from 5 to 12.
Best Classic Pointed-Toe Heel
Naturalizer Astrid T-Strap Dress Pumps
A pointed-toe heel is a workwear essential, as the style adds an understated elegance to almost any outfit. These Naturalizer Astrid T-Strap Dress Pumps are the perfect option with the classy t-strap and soft metallic leather.
Best Open-Toed Heel
Vionic Zinfandel Sandal
For those who can’t commit to a high heel, Vionic offers their Zinfandel Sandal. With medium and wide widths from sizes 5 to 13, these heels reduce pressure on the foot. In the color ways gold leather and blue suede, these sandals also include arch support and impact-absorbing cushioning.
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