5 Pairs of Shoes Every Working Woman Should Own

We know super-high heels are, like, the most flattering, but they’re just so damn painful. Luckily, a two- or three-inch block heel will do you the same favors in the leg-lengthening department without necessitating a Band-Aid—or ten. This sophisticated style is great in just about any office, and pairs with everything from shift dresses to cropped pants to dressed-down Friday denim.

Get the look: Chinese Laundry ($90); L.K. Bennett ($275); Stuart Weitzman ($425)

Cool, adult and androgynous, there’s a reason these guys are an office staple. Depending on how casual your workplace is, you can go wild with colors and embellishments, but a simple black leather version will never (ever) go out of style.

Get the look: G.H. Bass & Co. ($110); Sam Edelman ($120); Gucci ($730)

Low-heeled pumps and loafers will serve you well in the fall, spring and summer, but come wintertime swap them out for tall boots. Regardless of heel height, they look sleek underneath a dress, skirt or wide-leg trousers, or tucked into a pair of slimmer-fitting pants. 

Get the look: Nine West ($189); Cole Haan ($300); Sesto Meucci ($375)

In our perfect world we would never leave the house on rainy (or snowy) days. Sadly, we must, and it’s often to go to work. Luckily, there are a ton of weather-appropriate options that are also—dare we say?—cute. Invest in a pair of water-resistant boots that won’t totally throw off your outfit’s vibe, whether that means classic Hunters (in a neutral color) or something a little funkier, like the chunky heel above.

Get the look: Jeffrey Campbell ($60); Sorel ($155); Hunter ($155)

Today’s commuting sneaks look as good with jeans and a T-shirt as they do with the skirt or dress you wore to the office (see above). Just make sure you keep 'em nice and clean.

Get the look: Superga ($65); Adidas ($75); Tory Sport ($225)