Forget diamonds: shoes are a girl's best friend. There are endless styles to choose from, and often, a good pair of shoes is the pièce de résistance of any good outfit. While we love the best sneakers and boots [1], one piece of footwear will forever have our hearts (and pockets): heels. Just as versatile as any shoe, a pair of heels offers a certain level of confidence to the wearer while elevating one's look no matter the occasion, from a casual brunch date to a fancy soirée. But there's a new category of shoes we're most happy to see on our radar, and that's the most comfortable heels you can imagine. We're talking all your favourite styles — stilettos, wedges, mules — but tailor made to provide comfort instead of pain.
More brands are defying the "fashion is pain" stereotype, creating comfortable yet stylish heels like never before. And these comfortable heels aren't just regulated to the low-heel shoe [2] variety. The most comfortable designer heels are having a moment. Think Bottega Veneta's mesh sandals that have dominated the market for nearly four years or the the "ugly" yet snug shoe trend [3] that has seen a resurgence on our social media feeds, most notably the white Dries Van Noten pumps worn by Tracee Ellis Ross [4].
And there's also a resurgence in the most comfortable heels for weddings and other fancy outings. Rihanna [5] often wears strappy heels by designer Amina Muaddi [6] for date nights [7], and Bella Hadid's Nike kitten heels [8] left fans in a frenzy at the Fendi afterparty during New York Fashion Week. Even in the corporate sector, the most comfortable heels for work are offering more variety than ever with brands like Aerosoles, Everlane, and Sarah Flint. Consider this your sign to trade in your favourite stilettos and power pumps for thick mules and lower heel heights this season.
Ahead, we've curated some of the best shoes that are innovative in silhouette without causing blisters. Seriously, if you're looking for the most comfortable heels for standing all day, look no further. Whether you're on the hunt for a sexy sandal [9] for a summer wedding [10] or the perfect pair of slingbacks for long days at the office [11], keep scrolling to shop our top picks.
Most Comfortable Heels For Holiday
Circus NY Haynes Heeled Sandal [13] ($59)
If you're a fan of the Y2K fashion trend [14], these colour-block mules from Circus NY are a holiday wardrobe must-have. Its extra chunky heel is bound to keep you comfortable all day long, and adds a fun edge to any look, from a vibrant beach dress to your favourite bikini top and short combo.
Most Comfortable Heels For Weddings
Steve Madden Women's Brendi Heeled Sandal [15] ($80)
No wedding look is complete without the right pair of heels. These vibrant fuschia heels from Steve Madden are one of our affordable favourites. If you're looking for a stylish, yet comfortable heel that'll go with a floral dress or your go-to slip gown, this chic pair is a great buy. Trust us, you'll want to dance in these all night.
Most Comfortable Heels For Standing All Day
Aerosoles Women's Camera Sandal in Gold [16] ($135)
Featuring a platform heel and a diamond flex outsole, you won't have to worry about breaking these gold flatforms in. They're perfect for day to night and come in eight other colours if you're not on the market for metallic. Also, you can't resist genuine leather that's less than $150.
Most Comfortable Everyday Heels
Everlane Italian Day Leather Heel [17] ($175)
From running errands to long days at the office, these ballerina block heels meet all of your footwear needs. The versatile shoe is complete with an elasticized back for prime comfort and rounded toe, perfect for hours of wear.
Most Comfortable Heels For Brides
Dolce Vita Kanika Pearl Heels [18] ($135)
In case you didn't know, a bride's wedding shoes are just as important as her gown. These pearl low mules are the perfect elegant option to compliment a statement-making dress, and designed with recycled outsoles for comfort.
Most Comfortable Heels For Summer
Melissa Party Heel [19] ($139)
These glittery heels are an elevated and chic take on the nostalgic jelly sandal. A customer favourite, this sustainable pair by Melissa are made of durable PVC, that once broken in, will be one of the most comfortable summer shoes you own for years to come. Slip them on with a maxi skirt or shorts — their ultra-high block heel are the perfect height.
Most Comfortable Slide Heels
Sadi Studios Paris Heel [20] ($179)
If you want something comfortable but statement-making enough for your next warm-weather adventure, then look no further. These fun, elevated slides complete with colourful straps and a sculptural heel fit the bill.
Most Comfortable Heels For Work
Sarah Flint Perfect Pump 100 [21] ($550)
Whoever said stilettos are uncomfortable, hasn't worn these pumps from Sarah Flint. As a best-seller, this classic pair lives up to its name with innovative features like anatomical arch support and extra footbed padding. It's also made of black calf leather, making your purchase well worth it.
Most Comfortable Platform Heels
Larroudé Dolly Ankle Strap Platform Sandals [22] ($315)
These statement-making sandals are designed with comfort in mind, featuring platforms that actually decrease the pitch of your foot, so the heel instead feels more comfortable than it looks. They're also a great choice if you want to feel powerful on your next night out.
Most Comfortable Heels For Parties
Amina Muaddi Gilda Crystal Glass Sandal [23] ($585, originally $975)
We're obsessed with the translucent detailing of these modern and sultry Italian mules, complete with crystal-adorned straps that scream "party". The sleek shoe also features Muaddi's signature flare heel that'll go with any of your celebratory dresses, from a mini slip dress to your go-to LBD.
Most Comfortable Slingback Heels
Gucci Tom Original GG Slingback Pump [24] ($820)
The classic slingback style doesn't get any more iconic than these logomania pumps from Gucci. Apart from its timeless design, these low heels have the perfect adjustable buckle strap for prime comfort.
Most Comfortable Heels For Date Night
Bottega Veneta Stretch Leather-Trimmed Mesh Pumps [25] ($1,100)
These celebrity-favourite shoes are the epitome of style meets comfort. While they may look unassuming, these mesh pumps by Bottega Veneta are a great option for a modern date night look. They also feature precise leather insoles and tapered heels for an extra snug fit.