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21 Most Comfortable Dress Shoes You Might Not Ever Wanna Take Off

Last one on the dance floor? You betcha.

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Fancy restaurants, dressy events, formal business meetings—they all typically have a dress code (whether spoken or unspoken) that you're expected to follow. And while what type of clothes you actually wear to these occasions can vary, there's one thing every single outfit requires: a pair of dress shoes. Of course, if you've ever attempted to wear sky-high heels or brand-new flats to an event, you probably dread putting on a formal shoe any time it's necessary. They can be super uncomfortable, people! Alas, they're a bit unavoidable—which means you need a few go-to pairs in your wardrobe that won't have you taking 'em off after 30 minutes.

Enter: the most comfortable shoes for fancy events on le internet. No matter if you love a lil extra height or prefer a flat shoe, there are plenty of actually-comfy formal shoes out there. (Trust!) With these beauts, you can hit the dance floor all night, present a long business pitch with ease, or flit around like the social butterfly you are—all without wincing in pain. Ahead, the shoes you absolutely need for all of life's most formal settings!

Our top picks for the most comfortable dress shoes for women in 2024:

  • Noto Gold Heel

    best glitzy block heel

    Maguire Noto Gold Heel

    $145 at maguireshoes.com
    Read more
  • Simone Rope Mule

    best statement mule

    Shekudo Simone Rope Mule

    Read more
  • Coelest Espadrille Heel

    best fancy espadrilles

    Andre Assous Coelest Espadrille Heel

    Read more
  • Black Bead Bimba Slingback Shoes

    best embellished slingbacks

    Never Fully Dressed Black Bead Bimba Slingback Shoes

    Read more
  • Marsala Monstera Mid heel Sandal

    best flared block heels

    Farm Rio Marsala Monstera Mid heel Sandal

    Read more

Speaking of comfort, you need these ballet flats in your life, too. No matter what you're looking for, all of our picks are seriously ca-ute. Worn with anything from formal gowns to power suits, you can't go wrong with these 21 pairs. I've got your back (er, feet), babe.

best glitzy block heel

Maguire Noto Gold Heel

Noto Gold Heel
best glitzy block heel

Maguire Noto Gold Heel

Now 40% Off
$145 at maguireshoes.com
Pros
  • comes in 5 cute colors
  • supple leather
  • chic round heel
  • soft, padded top strap
Cons
  • a bit pricey

These cuties are unbelievably comfortable and soft. Apparently, they are also the best heels to dance the night away! Reviewers rave about how this pair is perf for birthdays, weddings, and every momentous occasion.

Rave Review:
"I bought these on a whim to wear out dancing at my birthday party. I love how they look, especially because it makes my size 9 feet look small! These were unbelievably comfortable, too. So soft and perfect! Highly, highly recommend. I can't wait to buy more shoes from this brand."

Details:

Material: Upper - 100% leather Lining - 100% leather Outsole - Synthetic
Color: Gold
Sizing:35-42
Heel Height:3 in
best statement mule

Shekudo Simone Rope Mule

Simone Rope Mule
best statement mule

Shekudo Simone Rope Mule

Pros
  • unique curvy heel
  • lush green hue
  • easy to slip on (or off)
Cons
  • no ankle strap for stability

They'll be green with envy when they see you in these knotty grass green mules! I mean, how stunning is that sculptural heel shape? Obsessed. P.S. These also come in sunny yellow with a squared, bl0ck-y heel silhouette or lipstick red with a swirly-shaped heel, just to complicate matters...

Details:

Material:Upper - 100% Cotton Aso Oke Insole and lining - 100% Genuine remnant Leather
Heel Height:4 inches
Color:Green, Red, Yellow
Sizing:36-42
best fancy espadrilles

Andre Assous Coelest Espadrille Heel

Coelest Espadrille Heel
best fancy espadrilles

Andre Assous Coelest Espadrille Heel

Now 40% Off
Pros
  • comfy, soft leather
  • wide wraparound ankle straps
  • cute oversized mod buckles
Cons
  • raffia heel may fray over time

It'll be sweaty feet no more with the breathable leather lining on these beautiful espadrille heels. Plus, there's a cushioned footbed! In addition to this elegant ivory, these stunners come in the dreamiest pale blue, too. Decisions, decisions...

Rave Review: "These espadrille heels have very soft leather, and are so comfortable."

Details:

Material:Sole – Leather Heel – Raffia Footbed – Leather Lining – Leather Upper – Leather
Heel Height:2 inches
Colors:Ivory, Blue
Sizing:5-11
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best embellished slingbacks

Never Fully Dressed Black Bead Bimba Slingback Shoes

Black Bead Bimba Slingback Shoes
best embellished slingbacks

Never Fully Dressed Black Bead Bimba Slingback Shoes

Now 51% Off
Pros
  • stunning floral beading
  • totally timeless
  • adjustable slingback design
Cons
  • narrow, pointy shape may pinch toes

Bedazzled goodness: These elegant, beaded black pointed-toe beauties are a dream! Chic and versatile, this pair adds instant polish and a fancy feel to any outfit.

Details:

Material:Fabric, Sequins
Heel Height:3.5 inches
Color:Black
Sizing:5-10
best flared block heels

Farm Rio Marsala Monstera Mid heel Sandal

Marsala Monstera Mid heel Sandal
best flared block heels

Farm Rio Marsala Monstera Mid heel Sandal

Now 70% Off
Pros
  • fun leafy motif
  • festive bronze hue
  • unique heel shape
Cons
  • doesn't come in other colors

How fun are these metallic, just-tall-enough block heel sandals?! Named after the Monstera plant (my fave), this pair has lil leafy motifs across the strap. Love the contrast of those delicate ankle straps and flared, chunky heel shape, which also will keep you stable and securely on your feet for a loooong night of dancing.

Details:

Material:N/A
Heel Height:N/A
Color:Metallic Rust
Sizing:5-11
best buckle sandal

Vionic Brookell Buckle Strap Sandal

Brookell Buckle Strap Sandal
best buckle sandal

Vionic Brookell Buckle Strap Sandal

Now 38% Off

Come for the square-toe, big buckle, and rounded heel on these chic sandals. Stay for the comfort shoe brand's stealth tweaks for major support (no more achy arches or numb ball of the foot, that kind of magic!) that make these cuties an immediate shoo-in for wedding guest 'fit rotation and, well, literally anything else.

Rave Review:
"I bought these first in the gold and liked them so much I bought them in the black suede. They are so comfortable and I can wear them for hours with no problems. They’re my go to heels now. Arch support makes all the difference!"

Details:

Color:Cream Leather, Black,Gold Leather, Macaron Suede, Black Suede
Heel Height:3.25 inches
Materials:Leather, Suede
Sizing:5-10
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best Block Heels

Margaux The Heel

The Heel
best Block Heels

Margaux The Heel

Pros
  • v versatile!
  • sophisticated hues
  • high quality materials
Cons
  • mostly neutral color palette

JSYK, these heels legitimately mold to your feet as you wear them—meaning they get more comfortable with each step. They have plush foam padding hidden inside, too, which is simply the cherry on top.

Details:

Material:Suede, Nappa leather, Embossed faux python
Heel Height:2.5"
Colors:Fawn Suede, Taupe Nappa, Black Suede, Chestnut Suede, and more.
Sizing:3-14
best loafer-flat hybrid

Birdies The Blackbird

The Blackbird
best loafer-flat hybrid

Birdies The Blackbird

Pros
  • machine washable!!
  • cool mashup of classic kicks
  • extremely versatile
Cons
  • limited colorways

A mix between a flat and a loafer, these shoes ooze elegance. They're easy to dress up or down, and won't have you crying at the end of the night. Reviewers love how versatile and comfortable they are, so don't be surprised if you go back for another pair or two.

Rave Review: "I could not believe how comfortable these beautiful shoes are! They are elegant but yet so soft and feel wonderful on your feet. The bottom is padded so well…like having a pillow wrapped around your feet!"

Details:

Material:Luxe calf hair, moire silk, velvet, or suede uppers; rubber sole
Sizing:5-12
Colors:Black, Olive, Oak
Heel Height: 11mm
best for wide (or narrow) feet

Naturalizer Banks Slingbacks

Banks Slingbacks
best for wide (or narrow) feet

Naturalizer Banks Slingbacks

Pros
  • adjustable slingback strap
  • supportive footbed
  • extensive sizing and widths available
Cons
  • strap may chafe or slide off heel

If you really want a pair of dressy heels that'll go with anything for years to come, this is it.

Rave Review: "I have problem feet…I need super comfy lining and these solved the problem. I wore them for hours at a wedding and I didn't need to change into the ballerina flats I brought along."

Details:

Material:Leather or Calf Hair upper
Colors:Black Leather, Silver, Nude
Sizing:4-12
Heel Height:1.25"
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These Party-Ready Heels

Ma'am Ruth Heels

Ruth Heels
These Party-Ready Heels

Ma'am Ruth Heels

Pros
  • round heel = arty and sturdy!
  • great texture
  • cute buckle detail
Cons

    Introducing: your perfect party shoe. From the glossy faux croc finish to the stunning rounded heel, there's a lot to love. Plus, the backless design, with an instep-grazing strap, makes 'em easy to slip off (not that you'll want to). Did I mention they come in five stunning colors?

    Details:

    Material:Embossed Leather
    Color:Cognac Croc, Sky, Terracotta, Midnight, and Lollipop Red
    Sizing:4.5-11
    Heel Height:2 inches
    best low Pumps

    Dream Pairs Annee Blush Suede Low Heel Pump Shoes

    Annee Blush Suede Low Heel Pump Shoes
    best low Pumps

    Dream Pairs Annee Blush Suede Low Heel Pump Shoes

    Pros
    • such glowing reviews
    • wide ankle straps
    • great price
    Cons
    • synthetic material isn't v breathable

    Talk about a truly ringing endorsement: just peep the reviews section for these popular pumps. "I walked 8.3 miles in these heels and have no regrets," says one reviewer. If these beauts can handle that, they can definitely handle a party or two.

    Details:

    Material:Suede
    Heel Height2.25 inches
    Size:5-11
    ColorNude & Many Others
    Best Minimalist Flats

    Everlane The Day Glove

    The Day Glove
    Best Minimalist Flats

    Everlane The Day Glove

    Pros
    • such soft leather!
    • a dozen great colors
    • simple, clean shape
    Cons
    • not much arch support

    Looking for a more formal everyday shoe? Try these sleek Italian leather flats on for size. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself buying multiples of these, per reviews. Especially because there are so many gorgeous hues to choose from, including perf neutrals as well as subtle, pretty seasonal shades.

    Rave Review: "The Day Glove shoe is so comfortable, fits perfectly, and looks so smart. Please don't stop making them."

    Details:

    Material:100% Italian Leather
    Sizing:5-11
    Colors:Black, Cream, Tan, Caramel, and more.
    Heel Height:0"
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    These Pointy Flats

    Sarah Flint Natalie Shoe

    Natalie Shoe
    These Pointy Flats

    Sarah Flint Natalie Shoe

    Pros
    • elegant shape
    • timeless look
    • surprisingly supportive for a flat
    Cons
    • no red hues

    If you're not into heels, try a pair of formal flats that won't pinch or rub. Plus, these come in a wide array of versatile neutrals, playful prints, and pretty metallics.

    Rave Review: "As a nurse, I’m on my feet ALL day, so when I’m not working, I want to wear comfortable (but cute and high quality) shoes. The Natalie exceeds expectations! So comfortable and so chic."

    Details:

    Material:Upper - Vegetable-Tanned Calf Leather Lining and Insole -Leather
    Colors:Sand Calf, White Calf, Water Lilies, Navy Suede, and more.
    Sizing:4-13
    Heel Height:10mm (or .3")
    Pros
    • simple, versatile silhouette
    • such rave reviews
    • comes in so many colors
    Cons
    • synthetic (not real) leather

    If you look up comfortable heels in the dictionary (or at least on Amazon), you'll find these cuties, which will go with allll your wedding guest 'fits (and can just as easily be dressed down, btw). With almost 19,000 reviews, this best seller is ready to make its way into your closet, STAT.

    Details:

    Material:100% Synthetic
    Colors:15 to choose from
    Heel Height:4 inches
    Sizing:5-11
    best strappy stilettos

    Aldo Melodic Strappy Heeled Sandal

    Melodic Strappy Heeled Sandal
    best strappy stilettos

    Aldo Melodic Strappy Heeled Sandal

    Now 50% Off
    Pros
    • stealthily comfortable
    • plush padded insoles
    • flirty AF
    Cons
    • ankle ties may loosen

    Don't judge a book shoe by its cover—this flirty stiletto is a part of Aldo's "Pillow Walk" collection, which has a whole bunch of killer shoes that feature plush foam and padded insoles, so your feet feel cushiony goodness at all times.

    Details:

    Material:Upper - Synthetic Sole - Rubber
    Heel Height:4"
    Colors:Bone White, Black
    Sizing:5-11
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    these colorful mules

    Arch NYC Moscow Mule -

    Moscow Mule -
    these colorful mules

    Arch NYC Moscow Mule -

    Now 37% Off
    Pros
    • wide, stable heel shape
    • so unique!
    • cozy material
    Cons
    • no ankle strap

    For shutting down the dance floor, you can't go wrong with these funky, fuzzy mules with chunky heels.

    Details:

    Material:Faux Pony Hair
    Size:6-11
    Heel Height: 3.5 inches
    Color:Pink, Orange, Green
    best beach chic mules

    KAANAS Colima Crisscross Raffia Heel Sandals

    Colima Crisscross Raffia Heel Sandals
    best beach chic mules

    KAANAS Colima Crisscross Raffia Heel Sandals

    Now 75% Off
    Pros
    • sturdy heel shape
    • versatile neutral hues
    • no buckles or ties to deal with
    Cons
    • raffia may require breaking in

    Oh hello, sandals I am most definitely eying for my next vacay! These neutral square-toed raffia cuties are ethically made in Colombia and sport a sturdy heel and crisscrossed straps to help keep feet from sliding around.

    Details:

    Material:Raffia
    Color:Tan
    Heel Height:3.25"
    Sizing:5-11
    best classic Loafers

    Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer

    Loraine Bit Loafer
    best classic Loafers

    Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer

    Pros
    • sooo many different options!
    • heel backs fold down
    • wear-forever style
    Cons
    • limited arch support

    Loafers can be hit or miss when it comes to comfort, but according to reviews, these timeless ones are total winners. But, with a whopping 25 (!) color and material combos on offer, you can go as classic or wild as you want.

    Rave Review: "Absolutely the most comfortable loafers I’ve ever had the pleasure of putting on my feet. Doesn’t need any breaking in. I usually have to break in loafers...but these felt like they was custom-made for me."

    Details:

    MaterialLeather, Velvet, or Fabric
    Colors:Brown, Black, Tan, White, and more.
    Heel Height:.5 Inches
    Sizing:5-14
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    best sky-high stunners

    ASOS DESIGN Peaked Platform High Heeled Shoes

    Peaked Platform High Heeled Shoes
    best sky-high stunners

    ASOS DESIGN Peaked Platform High Heeled Shoes

    Now 25% Off
    Pros
    • will stay on alllll night
    • less impact on the balls of your feet
    • pretty pattern
    Cons
    • despite the platform, still a high heel

    Call me crazy, but when I think comfort, I think platform heels. These dance floor-approved stunners are super comfy and secure! Love the dark floral pattern on these, too; the glam jacquard material is lustrous and dresses up any outfit a notch.

    Details:

    Material:Synthetic Fabric
    Sizing:4-13
    Heel Height:4.9"
    best edgy flats

    ZOUXOU Trini Loafer

    Trini Loafer
    best edgy flats

    ZOUXOU Trini Loafer

    Pros
    • cool, unexpected dressy option
    • soles have some traction
    • subtle vamp detailing
    Cons
    • only comes in black

    Just a reminder that, yes, loafers can work as formal shoes. It's all in how you style them! Wear these luxurious cuties with a formal suit, or try 'em with sheer socks and a cocktail dress. Besides looking great, you'll love the low heel height and the grippy traction of that lug sole (compared to the way-too-slippery soles of many flats).

    Details:

    Material:Black Vegetable-Tanned Leather, Patent
    Size:35EU-42EU
    Color:Black
    Heel Height:30mm
    Headshot of Maggie Griswold
    Maggie Griswold
    Contributing Fashion Editor

    Maggie Griswold (she/her) is a contributing fashion editor for Cosmopolitan and freelance writer and editor based in Los Angeles, covering everything from the latest wardrobe must-haves to interior design trends. Along with Cosmopolitan, you can find her work on Oprah Daily, StyleCaster, Women's Health, and House Digest, among others. She's a big (read: ridiculously huge) fan of the '90s sitcom Frasier, all things Shakespeare, and a good romance-filled YA novel. Follow her on Instagram

    Headshot of Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien

    Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn

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