Footwear can have a positive or negative effect on the well-being of your feet and the rest of your body as well as your feeling of comfort and contentment.
Dress shoes are normally chosen according to their attractive and formal looking appearance, and little consideration is given to comfort and support.
A good pair of dress shoes that are healthy and stylish should fit comfortably, have a suitable heel and provide adequate support and shock absorption.
What exactly Constitutes a Dress Shoe
A dress shoe is a shoe that you wear to formal or smart casual events such as dance, party or wedding, and other special occasions.
Many wear a dress shoe as their standard daily shoes either for work or to go to town with.
Different Styles of Dress Shoes
Pumps – Pumps are available in a large variety of colors and designs and can have a round or pointed toe or peep toe, they also have either a flat, medium or high heel. Pumps are also now available in a variety of materials such as wool suede and canvas and not only leather. Pumps are one of the most popular choices in dress shoes today, and they keep evolving in style and features.
Slingbacks – A slingback can have a similar appearance to a pump with a round, pointy or open toe. Slingbacks can also be flat or heeled and come in a variety of materials and colors. The only difference in a slingback shoe is that it has a narrow strap that is pulled up over the heel that leaves the rest of the heel exposed.
Loafers – Loafers are more casual dress shoes that are usually flat and more masculine in appearance. A typical loafer has a round toe and comes in darker colors, and there is also a slip on available design know as the cloak.
Mules – A Mule is any shoe that slides on and has no cover at the heel or back of the foot. Mules are not formally considered as dress shoes although they can be worn as dress shoes. Mules have become a large fashion statement, and they are also available in an enormous range of colors, designs and heel heights.
Ballet – Ballet flats are a classic that never seems to go out of fashion, taken from the art of ballet they are flat shoes with a round toe. Ballet flats are available in a variety of different colors, patterns, and materials. Ballet flats are comfortable and will complement any outfit.
Sandals – Any sandal with some decorative detail or a shiny finish could pass as a dress sandal in a more formal atmosphere. Sandals range from casual and sporty to high heeled strappy dress sandals. The Gladiator sandal is a particular favorite today and also comes in different colors and designs with or without heels. Sandals are perfect for warm summer weather or occasions where your feet may sweat and become hot, such as a dance or wedding.
Features of a Good Comfortable Dress Shoe
There is no reason why a fashionable and classy looking dress shoe cannot be comfortable and provide good support as well;
There are many comfortable dress shoes available that will look glamorous without compromising the health of your feet.
- The most important feature to look for is a secure and comfortable fit.
- A cushioned and supportive insole will provide you with comfort and will absorb shock.
- A shoe that is lightweight and breathable will reduce foot fatigue and keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- Non-irritating upper materials and seam stitching that will not cause chafing or blisters is also important.
- A durable outsole provides good grip and traction.
- Has a lining that will keep your feet dry.
Reviews: The Most Comfortable Dress Shoes Available Today
After some thorough research we have reviewed for your perusal some of the top available choices of Dress shoes in their different type categories;
Dansko Women's Deni Mule - Dress Mule
The Dansko Deni is a dress mule that is fresh off the runway with plenty of attitudes. Comfort and style go hand in hand with this dress mule.
Top Features:
- Supple leather uppers with a soft leather lining and decorative stud details for comfort and style.
- A block heel for added stability and a more formal appearance.
- The molded EVA footbed provides maximum support and cushioning.
- A lightweight frame with an embedded steel shank provides stability and protection.
- The PU outsole ensures great shock absorption and energy return.
- Available in a variety of colors and designs.
Naot Women's Mystery Wedge Sandal - Dress Wedge Sandal
A gorgeous dress wedge sandal, the Naot Mystery is adorable and reliable providing all-day comfort and style.
Top Features:
- Rich leather uppers crafted with rhinestone accents down the middle strap for comfortable wear and attractive appearance.
- Concealed goring at the instep and a padded front strap for a comfortable fit.
- An adjustable hook and loop closure at the ankle with goring for a customized fit.
- The cork and latex footbed.
- A durable TPR outsole that provides good grip.
- A wedge heel for added support and stability.
Earthies Women's Bright Red Capri 6 Medium US - Ballet Flat
The Earthies Rubio is a classic and beautiful ballet flat with added support and cushioning, perfect for any occasion.
Top Features:
- High-quality uppers that are soft and supple with a decorative artistic flower.
- A soft glove-like lining to protect your feet and keep them comfortable.
- The molded latex cushioning provides excellent support and comfort.
- The front leather detailing makes this shoe more visually appealing.
- The rubber outsole along with the contoured PP dual density footbed supports your feet and reduces shock and pressure on the feet and lower limbs.
- Perfect for a more relaxed and romantic look paired with any outfit.
- Available in a variety of feminine colors.
Clarks Women's Emslie Monet Ankle Boot, Black Leather, 5 - Western Heel Dress Bootie
The Emslie is a high fashion ankle boot with a western heel that can be worn casually or as a dress shoe.
Top Features:
- A durable TPR outsole with a slight heel for stability and support.
- The leather zipper closure ensures a fast and easy fit and 3 styling buttons.
- A soft synthetic lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- The Ortholite cushioned insole provides all-day comfort and support.
LifeStride Women's Teller Dress Sandal - Dress Platform Pump
For all-day wear that you can take into the evening for any occasion, the LifeStride teller is a stunning dress pump with some luxurious comfort features.
Top Features:
- A soft insole for cushioned comfort.
- Smooth uppers with smooth and comfortable linings.
- A durable and easy flexing outsole.
- The heel gives added stability and support.
- A versatile and durable shoe that will give you long-lasting comfort.
Dr. Comfort Coco Women's Therapeutic Dress Shoe: Black 12 X Wide (E/2E) - Mary Jane Dress Shoes
This Mary Jane style shoe has a classic and formal design complete with patent leather finishing, ideal as a comfortable dress shoe.
Top Features:
- Patent Leather uppers in a Taupe or Black finish.
- Extra depth design with a removable comfort footbed.
- The design provides forefoot pressure relief and you get a better fit with the adjustable BOA closure system.
- Available in wider widths and sizes for women.
- A slight heel for added elegance and style.
Vionic Women’s Perk Carmel Backstrap Heel – Ladies Strappy Dress Sandals with Concealed Orthotic Support - Black Leather 9M - Dress Sandal for Comfort
This comfortable and adjustable dress sandal from Vionic is available in four neutral colors to suit any dress code and features a slight heel to add a touch of panache.
Top Features:
- Wrapped heel and leather uppers finished with glamorous metallic buckles.
- A podiatrist-designed footbed that cradles your arches.
- Smooth leather linings that will not chafe and a cushioned insole.
- The durable rubber outsole with chunky heel adds support and stability.
Orthofeet Women's Orthopedic Black Leather Chelsea Loafer, Size 10 Wide - Orthopedic Dress Shoe
The Chelsea slip-on shoe from Orthofeet is suitable for a more semi-formal, to a casual occasion, or even as a work shoe. It offers superior orthopedic comfort features that are perfect for foot conditions or health conditions that may affect your feet.
Top Features:
- This shoe has a non-binding extra depth design with a larger toe box to accommodate certain foot conditions.
- The biomechanically engineered Ortho cushioning system reduces stress on your feet and limbs, while similarly improving stability.
- Designed to provide orthotic support and to relieve pain.
- The leather uppers are constructed in such a manner that you can put it on and take it off easily, with an adjustable tongue and strap.
- Available in three stunning designs.
Propét Women's Annika Slide, Oyster, 6 N US - Motion Technology Comfort Dress Shoe
If you are someone who prefers a lower heel, then the Propet Annika is the ideal dress sandal for you. The Motion technology and will keep your feet rejuvenated even after a long day.
Top Features:
- Leather straps with decorative, embellished metal buttons and an adjustable strap for the perfect fit.
- Rejuve Motion technology built in the outsole keeps your feet refreshed and supported.
- There is a slight wedge heel in this slip-on sandal.
- Available in white, oyster and red colors.
LifeStride Women's Nominal Dress Pump, Black, 8 W US - High Heel Comfortable Dress Pump
A completely versatile shoe that does not compromise comfort. Wear the Nominal from Lifestride as a heeled dress shoe, or even as a comfortable all day boot.
Top Features:
- A soft and comfortable insole for all-day support.
- the outsole is easy-flexing with a lengthy block heel.
- Flexible synthetic upper straps, with a leather heel.
- Available in all sizes and widths.
In Conclusion
It is important always to wear shoes that are comfortable and supportive even if only for a short while to protect your feet against damage and injuries.
Dress shoes are usually worn for special and formal occasions, but today many people who work in professional environments opt to wear a more formal dress shoe, particularly people in higher positions.
A classy and stylish looking pair of dress shoes say quite a bit about your professionalism and style, but an uncomfortable pair of dress shoes can make your day or special occasion quite unbearable
The dress shoes that we have listed have been selected for their comfort and style features.
Comparison Table: The Most Comfortable Women’s Dress Shoes
