6 Comfortable (and Cute) Shoes To Add to Your Closet ASAP

We all have that one pair of shoes collecting dust in the back of our closet. You know the ones — you bought them on sight because they were so cute, only to discover (too late) that they’re too uncomfortable to wear for any length of time. Yet there they remain, kept in the hopes that maybe, one day, you’ll be able to wear them without pain.

Despite that closet-bound pair you’ll likely never wear, the fact of the matter is that comfort and style are not mutually exclusive: Shoes can be both comfy and on trend. If you need proof, keep scrolling — we’re sharing some of our favorite styles for elevating your outfit (and smashing your daily step count) ahead. 

1. Elevated Slides

In the summer, slides are arguably the most comfortable shoes money can buy, which is why most of us have a pair hanging out by the front door (they’re perfect for mailbox runs). For a stylish twist on the comfy classics, ditch the bland plastic slides in favor of a chunky cork or raffia pair. The thicker footbed provides support for long walks while lending your look a summery, beachy flair. Prefer something sleeker? Look for lightweight slides with a flexible upper, such as the Crocs Brooklyn Buckle Low Wedge Platform Sandal (an unexpected but well-deserved favorite among TikTok style bloggers).

2. Wear-Anywhere White Sneakers 

If your weekend plans involve trekking around town, you can’t go wrong with a sleek white sneaker. You can wear them with athleisure clothing for a sporty feel, pair them with your favorite dress, or even rock them with wide-legged trousers for an effortless model-off-duty vibe. If you need a recommendation, we love Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Platform Sneaker. TikToker @shescutesy praised them as “the comfiest shoes” she’d ever worn after logging 50,000 pain-free steps in them over the course of two days. We’re sold. 

3. Mary Janes

Mary Janes are timeless: This classic silhouette has a French vibe that instantly elevates any outfit. To ensure all-day comfort, opt for a pair with a cushioned footbed and stretchy upper to help reduce the chance of getting blisters and keep your feet feeling supported all day long. We’re huge fans of Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane, which comes in 10 colors and boasts cushy insoles along with a flexible, recycled-plastic upper for serious all-day comfort. And we’re not alone: There are more than 54 million videos on TikTok praising this understated yet chic shoe.

4. Chelsea Boots 

Once temperatures begin to dip, you’ll find yourself needing a shoe that's comfortable, warm, and able to withstand wintry conditions such as rain and snow. The classic Chelsea boot delivers on all counts. These ankle boots feature a low heel and sleek silhouette, making them great for pairing with both daytime and nighttime outfits. For lasting comfort and stability, opt for a pair with a thicker tread, such as the Athlefit Women’s Chelsea Boots. This writer clocked more than 25,000 steps a day in these for a week straight in Paris and experienced zero discomfort. 

5. Chunky Heels 

If you find yourself needing a dressier shoe for a special occasion, such as a wedding, don’t fret: There are plenty of chic and comfortable options worthy of a night out. Block heels are ideal, as they provide more stability and support than hair-thin stilettos, while still fitting with a dressier outfit. Look for a pair in the 2- or 3-inch heel range, such as the LifeStride Celia Slingback Strappy Dress Sandals or the Stuart Weitzman Pearlita 35 Sandal.

6. Platform Loafers

We’re calling it now: Loafers are going to be the “It” shoe of fall 2024, thanks to the enduring popularity of TikTok’s “eclectic grandpa” trend. The menswear staple is equal parts stylish and comfortable and pairs perfectly with a variety of outfits, from your day-off jeans-and-T-shirt uniform to flowy, feminine skirts. You can’t go wrong with a classic black loafer, but if you want something more understated, camels, whites, and chocolate browns are all excellent choices. Try the Sam Edelman Lorraine Loafer, which comes in all of the aforementioned hues, as well as trendier colorways including silver, burgundy, and navy blue.