8 Types of Office Footwear Every Woman Should Have

Footwear is one of the most important factors in looking polished and trendy. Today, we’re taking a look at some of the must-have footwear items for the office.

Planning your work outfit is easy enough, until you get to the footwear section and realize you haven’t changed your style in a while. Pointed heels? Funny, but if you’re ready to switch up your style, there are tons of office-friendly shoes that add a little more variety to your 9-to-5 job.

We asked personal stylists and footwear designers for their favorite shoes for the corporate world, and they came up with some fresh inspiration:

1. Mary Jane

Originally marketed as a schoolgirl shoe, the classic Mary Jane has become a staple for women—and yes, it’s office-appropriate when styled right! “This silhouette tends to be structured yet soft—think sophisticated Parisian minimalism,” says Sabrina Morin, personal stylist and founder of The Closet Compass. “It’s a smart flat that still looks intentional and polished, not just casual.”

2. Ballet Flats

You don’t have to leave your ballet flats at the bar. These on-trend flats are feminine and sweet, but can easily be dressed up for the office. “Especially in more buttoned-down environments, they’re a smart way to sneak in a little style,” says Arabella Barros, head of design for John Fluevog Shoes. “Classic ballet flats look great with knee-length pants and a crisp blouse for a clean, professional look.”

3. Low-Heeled Mules

These tried-and-true shoes are as stylish to the office as your office wife: stylish, reliable, and undramatic. Low-heeled mules glide effortlessly on but still show that you put effort into your look. Pair them with tailored trousers, a midi skirt, or even your favorite wide-leg pants.

These tried-and-true office shoes are as stylish, reliable, and undramatic. Low-heeled mules are easy to slip on but still show that you put effort into your look. Pair them with tailored trousers, a midi skirt, or even your favorite wide-leg pants.

4. Slingback Slippers

This classic office footwear choice remains a go-to for a reason—they’re incredibly versatile and always look professional. “They’re a shoe that elevates your body. Whether you’re wearing a low heel or a high heel, a slingback shoe elevates your entire look,” says Morin. “They’re clean, structured, and elevate your posture, both literally and fashionably.” She suggests pairing them with a structured dress, a tailored pencil skirt, or a pair of crisp trousers that follow clean lines.

5. Chunky Platforms

Go ahead and slip on a little grunge when you’re taking calls and meeting deadlines. “For the office, chunky platforms add a sense of confidence in a wearable style. The bold silhouette can modernize a classic work look and help reduce foot fatigue during long days,” says Barros. She adds, “Platforms are the unsung heroes of the workday wardrobe, especially on those ‘five meetings to noon’ days.”

6. Elegant Sneakers

Go ahead and slip in a little grunge when you’re taking calls and meeting deadlines. “For the office, chunky platforms give a confident, wearable look. The bold silhouette can modernize a classic work look and help reduce foot fatigue during long days,” says Barros. She adds, “Platforms are the unsung heroes of the workday wardrobe, especially on those ‘five meetings to noon’ days.”

7. High Heels

For days when you want to stand out a little more, a pair of heels is your superpower. “Heels change the way you carry yourself, signaling that you didn’t come dressed up and that you’re standing your ground,” says Morin. “They work best when the rest of your outfit is similarly composed. Think restrained silhouettes and strong separates.”

8. Loafers

Loafers are structured, grounded flats that add a touch of luxury without the need for a heel. They’re clean, composed, and offer a modern balance to softer or more relaxed silhouettes. “These shoes work well with midi skirts, pencil skirts, or wide-leg trousers,” Morin tells us. “The key is how you finish the look. Opt for sleek fabrics, defined waistlines, and clean lines up top.”