LOOK POLISHED AND STYLISH AT WORK, IN COMFORTABLE SHOES

If you spend most of your working day on your feet, walking around, pretty heels are not an option. And as some of my readers have pointed out if you have to wear moderately comfortable shoes to work, it can make pulling together a professional look a little challenging. Well, my friends, I am the queen of flats. My shopping trips can last up to 5 hours and if you've been on one with me you'll know I'm constantly running around, whether it's getting different sizes or sourcing the right accessories to match your outfits. I'll also have spent 1-2 hours before the trip hand picking the stock so pretty heels are not an option for me. I need to be comfortable but I need to look the part, so I am perfectly placed to help YOU look polished in flats!

Scroll down to read my tips on pulling together a polished look when heels aren't an option, and to see my favorite, most versatile options available on the high-street right now.

What to look for

Go for luxe look shoes.

Metallic, patent, velvet and good quality leather will always look polished.

Don't just stick to flats, a low heel is sometimes more comfortable than a flat shoe.

Completely flat shoes can be bad for your back and terrible for your feet, so if you're looking for comfort, choose a low heel instead of something completely flat.

Go for a pair of brogues

Brogues are SUCH a great choice for work. They look smart and chic and can be ridiculously comfortable. Not only that, but they come in a huge array of colors so you should have no trouble finding a pair to fit your style and closet.

Pointy toed shoes are always flattering

A pointy toe has the ability to elongate your feet and lengthen your legs, which is always a bonus when you're wearing flat shoes!

Be bold

Comfortable doesn't have to be boring, go for a bold color or print, there are some beautiful floral prints around at the moment.

Animal print

Well, you all know how I feel a bout leopard print - I LOVE it! But seriously, leopard print is a classic that will never date, it's a neutral so works with a ton of outfits, and it always looks chic. Win, win, and win!

Play around with the length of your trousers

Something as simple as little turn up can make the difference between terrible and brilliant!

Match the color of the shoe to that of your tights

If you're wearing tights, matching them to the color of your shoes will elongate your legs. If you're going with bare legs then a nude color will have the same effect.

Choose laces

Shoes that lace up, lace around your ankle, or have an ankle strap are a comfortable option as you won't find yourself gripping them with your toes to keep them on your feet.

Add some insoles

There are some fantastic insoles to choose from these days. I have these in most of my shoes and they really do make a huge difference to how comfortable I am. Shoes that I would usually struggle to wear for more than half a day, are a joy to wear all day!

What if you wear orthotics?

I've helped a few client who need orthodontics so I know how hard it is to find shoes that have removable insoles, but there are a few retailers that I highly recommend taking a look at:

Clarks offer a small selection of shoes with removable insoles.
Ted and Muffy's shoes come in a range of foot (and calf) widths so you may find that their wide fitting shoes give you the extra room you need to insert your orthotics.
Bared Shoes have a beautiful range of orthotic friendly shoes!

My top 9 picks

10/21/2016