How To Find Good Shoes For the Office

Introduction

Dressing for the office can be as simple as putting on a dark-colored suit and a pair of office shoes that many would consider sensible. But that approach gets boring quickly, so many women enjoy adding a touch of flair to their workplace wardrobe. Sensible shoes do have an advantage in that they are typically comfortable. That's an important criteria if you have to wear them for 8 hours or more a day. With a little extra time spent shopping and trying on various styles, it is possible to find comfortable office shoes that have both fashion flair pizazz. Consider buying shoes that have color in them rather than the classic black, navy or brown tones that are considered safe for professional wear. Much will depend on the office culture at your workplace and what your role is in the business. If you can carry off good-looking shoes in your position, the overall image boost can make you feel sharp and focused throughout even the longest days.

Step 1

Evaluate just how much wear your office shoes get during the course of a day. If you have a sedentary desk job and the only walking you do is to the copy machine and lunch room, you'll be able to get away with buying office shoes that have a higher heel. For those who have a job that requires a moderate amount of standing and movement during the workday, a slightly lower heel is probably more appropriate. In a fast-paced job where you have to walk and move around a great deal, low-heel of flat-soled office shoes should be the first type of shoes you consider on your shopping trip.

Step 2

Select one or two pairs of shoes that can be worn with various outfits. Once you have found a brand and style of shoe that is comfortable, you may wish to buy the same kind in several colors that will match different skirts and trousers. If you work in a professional office, you may want to limit the styles to those similar to what other women are wearing in the same environment. But if you work in a more creative field, your office shoes are as much a fashion statement as your jewelry and other clothing accessories.

Step 3

Shoes that reduce the fatigue you may typically feel by the end of the day can make the daily grind less stressful. Look for office shoes that have good arch support and that fit well. Do not try to push your feet into shoes that are too small as you will feel the negative effects of pinching and cramping before the work day is even half over. Instead, have your feet measured by one of the clerks in the shoe department to ensure that you have the right size each and every time you increase your office shoes collection.

Step 4

Choose office shoes that are easy to maintain. It is important that your shoes are always clean, in good shape and without scuffs. This is particularly important if you are interviewing for a job or if you are competing for a promotion. Human resources personnel and office management does look at your overall presentation when determining your personal readiness for new roles.  

Step 5

If you find the office shoes you would love to buy online, make sure you check out the retailer's return policy before you make the final purchase transaction. Office shoes are rarely inexpensive, so you want to verify that you can return them without penalty if they don't fit properly or if they are not the correct color once you see them in person.

Tips

Extend the life of your office shoes by carrying them in a bag while you commute to work wearing a pair of sneakers or comfy walking shoes. Change into your office shoes upon arrival at your workplace, then return to the more comfortable shoes before you begin the trip home.

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