17 Comfortable Work Shoes For the Office, the Commute, and Beyond

Old Navy Faux-Leather Twist-Front Mule Shoes ($31, originally $35)

No work wardrobe is complete without having a classic pair of mules incorporated into it, and this faux-leather style from Old Navy is one of our favorites. If you're in the market for a quality pair of business-casual shoes that'll get you through the workday and won't cost a fortune, this slip-on pair is a great buy. Plus, it's also available to shop in a handful of versatile colors. Read more about the style in this Old Navy Faux-Leather Twist Front Mule Shoes review.

Editor Quote: "The Old Navy Faux-Leather Twist-Front Mule Shoes are a timeless footwear choice for both work and play, perfect for those who want to upgrade their flats collection or — if you're like me — start one. The twist-front design gives them an elevated feel without the high price tag, undoubtedly a plus for financially savvy shoppers." — Marisa Petrarca, contributing editor, Commerce

Old Navy Faux-Leather Chunky-Heel Loafer Shoes ($40)

Hurry if you want these loafers, a brand bestseller for their affordable price and comfortable fit. The shiny, faux leather exterior looks high-end, made from a mix of recycled and regular thermoplastic rubber. For more, read our editor's complete review of the Old Navy Faux-Leather Chunky-Heel Loafer Shoes.

Editor Quote: "These loafers are so comfortable that it's hard to believe the price tag — and I'm far from the only Old Navy shopper who thinks this. Scroll through the ratings section on Old Navy's website, and you'll see that nearly every review attests to how comfy they are. The footbed is made of a cushioned woven twill that I was able to wear for the full day without desperately craving to take them off — as is the case with many of my shoes." — Marisa Petrarca, contributing editor, Commerce

Steve Madden Women's Lotto Penny Loafer ($42-$154)

These chunky shoes go well with white socks and have a cushioned footbed that's comfortable to walk in. Retro-inspired, you'll look straight out of the '90s with these business casual work shoes. We love that they feature the silhouette's classic penny slot design, and that they come in a total of five colors.

Sam Edelman Loraine Loafers ($105-$170, originally $120-$170)

These versatile loafers are like a two-in-one shoe. The backs fold down, so you can wear them like slides on days you want to slip 'em on and go. They're a great versatile shoe to add to your collection, and their minimalist design can be paired with anything. Plus, these women's work shoes are also available to shop in a range of different colors, so you can shop out the perfect style for your closet.

Nisolo Ama Woven Mules ($180)

These woven mules are made of real leather, which means that it will likely take a few wears to break them in, but once you do, you'll never want to take them off. These formal slip-on shoes (which are outfitted with a cushioned insole, FYI) are perfect for everyday wear and will take you from spring to summer and fall with no problem. They come in a variety of different colorways, and the low-heel design will give you just enough height without hurting your feet.

Sézane Vicky Loafers in Smooth Red ($225)

You can't go wrong with Sézane's Vicky loafer, which has an antique appeal thanks to the brass finish of the chain across the upper and the soft moccasin leather. Available in black, camel, and ecru, as well, these team well with everything from socks and a miniskirt to breathable trousers. Of course, they can be pared back to jeans and a T-shirt, too.

Malone Souliers Maureen Black Leather Flat Mule ($675)

The signature appeal of a Malone Souliers shoe is the distinctive wave-like silhouette and contrasting double straps across the top of the foot. These nappa leather flats are a classic wardrobe mainstay, and are currently available in nine different colorways — all of which are sophisticated enough for the office.

Skechers Honeycomb Flat ($47-$63)

We're obsessed with the scalloped detailing of these breathable and seamless knit-fabric flats, available in five neutral colors perfect for work. Shoppers praise the design but rave even more about their comfort. Case in point: one shopper who gave them a five-star rating wrote: "Finally, shoes that are comfortable all day! I'm a Pre-K teacher and I'm on my feet all day. My feet are no longer tired at the end of the day! The padding inside is so cushiony and the fabric is comfortable and really does stretch."

Birdies Starling Flat ($65-$155)

Few styles are more versatile than a classic pair of black flats, and this shoe from Birdies is a particular favorite of POPSUGAR editors and royals alike (Meghan Markle has donned the slip-on style a handful of times). The sleek shoe features a cushioned, seven-layer footbed that provides optimal support and comfort for your feet, regardless of where your day takes you. Read more about these comfortable work shoes in this review of Birdies Slippers.

Editor Quote: "As soon as I slipped into [these flats] at the POPSUGAR offices, all the editors around me were "oohing" and "ahhing." Of course, they're stunning shoes, but what truly impresses me is how comfortable they are. The quilted satin soles are like little pillows of joy for your feet. This is not a drill: when it comes to comfort, I'd rather wear these mules than sneakers." — Macy Cate Williams, former content director, Commerce

Rothy's The Point Flats ($149)

You don't have to worry about breaking into these flats because they feature a surprisingly durable soft and flexible upper. They're machine-washable and come in about 20 different colors and patterns.

Editor Quote:"If you've ever invested in footwear without a heel because you were looking for comfort, only to be disappointed by a restricting shape that caused more pain than a sky high stiletto, then you're in my boat, and Rothy's is the solution." — Sarah Wasilak, senior editor, Fashion

Margaux The Demi Flat ($225)

What separates Margaux's footwear from others is that the label offers a diverse size range, including sizes US 3 to 14 and three width options. One of our contributors who formerly had a difficult time fitting into ballet flats deems them her personal favorite for how comfortable they are, from their unstructured silhouette to their plush foam padding. Learn more via our complete review of the Margaux Demi Flats.

Editor Quote: "After slipping into one pair that was a little too big, and then another that was the size below, the third narrower option felt like they had been made just for me. They were beyond comfortable (thanks to their killer padded insole), didn't pinch anywhere, and miraculously didn't allow my heel any allowance when it came to slippage." — Avery Matera, contributor

Miraazzurraa Sling Back Pumps ($25-$70)

These women's work shoes are as comfortable as they are chic. The style features a chunky heel that adds height while remaining fashionable. Its soft cushion footbed is bound to serve you on long days spent on your feet, while its straps keep you nice and secure. Wear them with a comfy pair of jeans, a maxi dress, or even denim shorts — they go with anything.

Everlane The Italian Leather Day Heel ($131, originally $175)

There's nothing better than a classic block heel that can take you from business casual to a fun night out, and these black heels deliver exactly that. The comfortable shoe has an elasticized back for extra comfort and a sturdy block heel to support you for hours on end.

Intentionally Blank Leather Kamika Sandals ($169)

Show off your pedicure in these darling heeled sandals. The open-toed shoes are made of natural leather that, once broken in, will be the most comfortable pair of work shoes you own. Slip them on and pair them with pants or a skirt — their two-and-a-half-inch heel adds the perfect amount of height. Don't like the baby blue color? These sandals are available in a light brown shade as well.

Cariuma IBI Low Off-White Knit Sneaker ($119)

If you're looking for a basic sneaker that's lightweight, breathable, and able to be worn without socks (!), this editor-loved sneaker is it. The shoe's knit material is made from bamboo and recycled plastics, and its insole is made from cork. We reviewed the Cariuma IBI Low Off-White Knit Sneaker and can confirm it's one of the most comfortable work shoes to invest in.

Editor Quote: "These sneakers are one of the best pairs of shoes I own, so much so that I might have to purchase them in a few extra colors. Seriously, I can't speak one bad word about these shoes. Cariuma has fast shipping, perfect sizing, and amazing quality with sustainability at the forefront of its mission — what more can you ask for? " — Haley Lyndes, former assistant editor, Commerce

Vince Women's Blair Slip On Sneaker ($225)

Ditch the laces with these slip-on sneakers made from 100 percent leather, available in a total of 15 colors and patterns. They fuse comfort and fashion with a versatile silhouette that takes you from work to play in a breeze. One reviewer who gave them a five-star rating said she's "obsessed" because she likes "to wear a comfy but cute shoe to work" and that "these are the PERFECT go-to."

Koio Retro Runner Sneakers ($251, originally $295)

Gwyneth Paltrow and Joe Jonas are fans of these stylish sneakers starring a vintage-inspired silhouette made from sustainably sourced, materials including Italian leather and suede. Their neutral colorway gives them a sleek and elevated feel that's perfect for dressing up or down. For more, read our review of the Koio Retro Runner Sneakers.

Editor Quote: "I just adore the look of these sneakers. Everything about the style screams "everyday sneaker," from the neutral colorway to the low-rise frame and even the shoe's resemblance to a classic tennis sneaker." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Commerce