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The Most Comfortable Work Shoes, According to Oprah Daily Editors

The sandals, boots, and sneakers we swear by.

By Sara Klausing
most comfortable work shoes 2023

Take it from America Ferrera's Barbie monologue: It's hard being a woman. From waking up to a full hair-and-makeup routine to steaming and shimmying into a confidence-boosting outfit, getting ready for the office in the morning is a serious undertaking. If you get stuck on comfortable work shoes that are professional and stylish, we asked the editors at Oprah Daily for their favorite footwear that gets them through the workday.

Our Top Picks

  • 1
    Ruby Suede Heeled Sandals

    Sole Bliss Ruby Suede Heeled Sandals

    $299 at solebliss.com
    Read more
  • 2
    Women's GrandPro Topspin Sneaker

    Cole Haan Women's GrandPro Topspin Sneaker

    Read more
  • 3
    Soft 7 Low Boot
  • 4
    Gold Foster Sandals

    French Sole Gold Foster Sandals

    Read more
  • 5
    Gina Vegan Leather Flat Sandals

Thankfully, the return to the workplace in 2023 looks and feels significantly different from the years leading up to and coming out of a global pandemic. The world has collectively agreed that comfort is just as important as style. Brands and retailers are meeting the moment and taking on a fashion-meets-function approach, resulting in fabulously comfortable sartorial options.

From Gayle's bright block-heel sandals and fashion-editor-favorite ankle boots to feminine flats and sleek leather sneakers, read on for comfortable work shoe inspiration, courtesy of Oprah Daily staffers.

1

Sole Bliss Ruby Suede Heeled Sandals

Ruby Suede Heeled Sandals
1

Sole Bliss Ruby Suede Heeled Sandals

$299 at solebliss.com
Credit: Sole Bliss

In this month's The World According to Gayle, you can find a shout-out to Sole Bliss, which offers shoes specifically designed with comfort and support in mind. While Gayle prefers the higher Remy version of these fabulous royal blue suede sandals, the lower-heel height may be a bit more manageable for others. Thanks to triple-layer cushioning and arch support, these are ideal for anyone with bunions or wide feet, or who simply loves fabulous, comfortable shoes.

2

Cole Haan Women's GrandPro Topspin Sneaker

Women's GrandPro Topspin Sneaker
2

Cole Haan Women's GrandPro Topspin Sneaker

Credit: Cole Haan

"I’m all about comfy shoes, but it’s hard to find work-appropriate ones," says copy chief Stephanie Makrias, who currently has two pairs of comfortable sneakers in her office rotation. These sleek leather Cole Haan platforms are a step up from everyday trainers and are crafted with the brand's luxuriously cushioned Grandfoam footbed.

3

Ecco Soft 7 Low Boot

Soft 7 Low Boot
3

Ecco Soft 7 Low Boot

Credit: Ecco

Makrias's second comfortable shoe of choice? These dreamy sneaker-inspired Ecco ankle boots made with a soft leather outsole and fabric-lined interior.

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4

French Sole Gold Foster Sandals

Gold Foster Sandals
4

French Sole Gold Foster Sandals

Credit: French Sole

J'nelle Agee, senior producer, says,"I love to throw on these sandals when I get in the office. The shoe is so comfortable because of the chunky heel. I also love how they spruce up any outfit and can transform a casual work outfit into the perfect fit for a night out on the town!"

Thanks to a signature cushioned insole, market director Rae Ann Herman looks chic while staying comfortable in these gorgeous vegan leather sandals from Aera. As part of its commitment to decrease the impact of shoes on the environment, the B Corp-certified shoe brand actively looks for new solutions and innovations in materials, production, and supply chain.

6

Vintage Park Shoes Mary Jane Ballet Flats

Mary Jane Ballet Flats
6

Vintage Park Shoes Mary Jane Ballet Flats

Credit: Vintage Park Shoes

Assistant to the creative director Hayley Duffy often sports these adorable and comfortable Mary Jane-inspired ballet flats around the office.

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7

Adidas Samba Classic Sneakers

Samba Classic Sneakers
7

Adidas Samba Classic Sneakers

Now 14% Off
Credit: Adidas

Samba sneakers are having a big moment, and our editors can't get enough of the classic style with comfy arch support. You can find us sporting Sambas at all hours of the day. Freelance style assistant Justine Anthony wears them in the office as well as out and about at market appointments.

8

Portland Leather Vero Ankle Boot

Vero Ankle Boot
8

Portland Leather Vero Ankle Boot

Credit: Portland Leather

Fashion editor Sara Klausing loves this ankle boot. "The square toe and sculptured block heel on these dress up anything from tailored trousers to a pair of relaxed jeans. They're stylish while being comfortable enough to run around the city for appointments and events after a long day of work!"

9

Cole Haan Zerogrand Wingtip Oxford

Zerogrand Wingtip Oxford
9

Cole Haan Zerogrand Wingtip Oxford

Credit: Cole Haan

"I've always worn brogues in the office, but I like to walk to work when I can, and these shoes are ideal for that," says Aaron Radford-Wattley, Ecomm/SEO manager. "They're smart enough for big meetings but comfortable enough for the long walk home. With the quality leather uppers and cushioned, sneaker-inspired outside, they perfectly tread the line of professional yet relaxed. I have them in British tan and dark chocolate. Added bonus: Steve Martin wears them in Only Murders in the Building."

You can also find the women's versions here.

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10

Lucky Brand Emmie Ballet Flat in Black Leather

Emmie Ballet Flat in Black Leather
10

Lucky Brand Emmie Ballet Flat in Black Leather

Now 26% Off
Credit: Lucky Brand

“These lightweight ballet flats from Lucky Brand are an absolute must for days in the office!" says assistant editor Jane Burnett. "Whether I'm commuting to and from the building or walking around inside, the memory foam insoles make each step feel like I'm walking on a cloud.”

11

Charlotte Stone Paz Clog Boot in Camel

Paz Clog Boot in Camel
11

Charlotte Stone Paz Clog Boot in Camel

Credit: Charlotte Stone

Cassie Hurwitz, assistant editor, is all about getting a little extra height. "The platform on these clog-style boots means I can gain a few inches without needing to go full Barbie foot," she says. "The memory foam insole is also way comfier than your average wooden boot—not to mention the available colors range from gorgeous jewel tones to easy neutrals perfect for matching any office outfit."

12

Crown Vintage Gamina Platform Sneaker

Gamina Platform Sneaker
12

Crown Vintage Gamina Platform Sneaker

Now 40% Off
Credit: Crown Vintage

From her fresh Dr. Scholls white sneakers to platform Crown Vintage styles, assistant art director Morgan Brownell is known for her eye for flattering sneakers that feel like a dream.

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13

Aldo Veadith Slip On Flats

Veadith Slip On Flats
13

Aldo Veadith Slip On Flats

Credit: Aldo

Social & livestream events assistant Shelby Copeland vouches for Old Skool Vans and these comfy flats from Aldo. Outside, soft rubber outsoles provide added traction, while a flexible insole allows for less resistance and all-day support.

14

Intentionally Blank Honcho Mule Black Sole

Honcho Mule Black Sole
14

Intentionally Blank Honcho Mule Black Sole

Credit: Intentionally Blank

"I’ll be honest—you need about a week to break these in, but after that, they will genuinely be the most comfortable shoes in your closet," says Charley Burlock, contributing book associate editor. "The slingback makes them feel appropriate for summer, but you can also wear them with socks for a winter look. They are closed-toed, so appropriate for any workplace (and pedicure status)."

15

Jenni Kayne Cotton Crossover Sandal

Cotton Crossover Sandal
15

Jenni Kayne Cotton Crossover Sandal

Credit: Jenni Kayne

Contributing market editor Elizabeth Toal says, "I walk to and from the office everyday. The thicker sole and crossover casing act as a great barrier from NYC streets. They are the most versatile shoe I own, pairing perfectly with dresses and trousers."

Lettermark
Sara Klausing

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily.

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