
“I haven’t felt my feet since 1974.” Me, whenever the topic of heels comes up, which in my life is pretty often.
Of course, I’m joking. I was 4 in 1974, and I don’t think my favorite strawberry clogs had killed the nerve endings in my feet yet. That didn’t happen until at least 1979.
But not everyone shares my love for uncomfortable footwear.
You see, lately I’ve come to the conclusion that there are two types of people: Those who will suffer for style. And those who won’t. I might be getting old, but I feel myself shifting from the former to the latter. No, shift is too strong. More like a lean. A slight inclination. I think it comes down to time and energy, and how I have very little of both. My life is demanding, and my shoes need to keep up.
Fortunately, we are no longer being forced to choose between cute and comfortable. We can have it all. Fabrics are getting cozier, fuzzier, and softer than ever, and shoes are getting more comfortable, too. Here, some of the chicest “comfort” shoe brands I’ve found, and a favorite style from each.
Note: Most of these styles are over $100, but brands like Naturalizer, Aerosoles, and Easy Spirit also offer comfortable styling at more affordable prices, particularly when you buy them on sale. For comfortable shoes for all budgets and styles, check out this catalog where you will find all of my top picks!
(As always, click on the pics for more details!)
SOFFT
Affordable styles with a casual, earthy vibe.
Abeo
These “biomechanical” shoes come with “customized footbeds digitally matched to your feet.”
Walking Cradles
An American company with an emphasis on fit and a wide range of sizes.
Sarah Flint
I’ve waited a long time for these. Comfort footwear that doesn’t look like comfort footwear. Meagan Markle has been spotted wearing these.
Rockport
This reliable brand has updated its styles, and consistently combines cute with comfortable.
Vionic
I partnered with this line when it first launched, and I can comfortably say (see the pun!) that my feet were thrilled.
Antelope
Boho chic footwear with an emphasis on chunky-heeled clogs and wedges.
Bared
With some brands, you have to dig a little to find a fashionable pair. Not with this Australian company. So many beautiful styles, I had a hard time choosing!
BeautiFeel
Calling itself the original comfort footwear brand, BeautiFeel offers funky, almost vintage-y styles made in Italy.
L’Amour des Pieds
The name means “love of feet,” and this brand offers hip, supportive styles with chunky soles.
M. Gemi
This buzzy brand, with shoes handmade in Italy, has caused a stir with its comfortable dress shoes.
Paul Green
This luxury comfort-brand staple brings European design and luxury prices to the party.
Frankie 4
Developed by podiatrists, this brand features a patented footbed kit and plenty of chic, trendy styles.
Rothys
Comfortable, durable, and even washable, these are the hottest flats since Tieks.
Spring Step
Feminine, boho-ish comfort footwear with artistic details.
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