Splashy and Affordable Work Shoes

Written by Ali Straka Sunday, May 30 2010

The best shoes for work are those with three crucial characteristics: fashion, function, and affordability. No matter how gorgeous, most Manolo Blahniks and Christian Louboutins don’t fit the bill (especially the wallet-friendly requirement). What follows are some fashion-forward yet business-appropriate footwear suggestions for the professional on a budget.

Standing tall: Though they’re not practical for every woman’s workplace, stilettos are a must-have. Every woman needs a classic pair of black pumps. They match everything and never go out of style. The Barbe2 pump from Nine West, $69, is an affordable choice for a season-less shoe. The Kat pump by Marc Fisher, $60, is a trendy variation on the classic stiletto pump, with a sexy silhouette and trim heel, in a safari-ready snakeskin look. These shoes would look great peeking out from the hem of wide-legged trousers, allowing just a glimpse of wild style as you strut through the office.

If you’re lucky enough to work in an environment that allows more fashion-forward choices, Steve Madden’s Flamed heels, $63, are a great choice for trying out two major footwear trends: platforms in a nude tone. Stilettos with a platform are actually easier to walk in and more comfortable than regular high-heels, plus the nude shade (called blush) elongates your legs.

Short stack: Kitten-heels offer the best of both worlds. You get a hint of height, but can still easily run around the office. The short-heeled Drea pumps by Karen Scott Shoes are a fabulous find at $49. With a pointed toe, mesh sides, and a prim buckle, this black shoe is fashionably chic while remaining neutral and professional. Up that alley is the Milana pump by Jessica Simpson, $55. In a pale beige patent leather, it will coordinate easily with your wardrobe and elongate your legs if you choose to wear it with a skirt. The Milana pumps also have a peep-toe, which is great for summer and more business-appropriate than a sandal.

Comfy flats: Flats are the most practical option for the office; comfort and mobility go a long way during a 12-hour workday. A stylish leather loafer is an Italian classic that never goes out of style, but you don’t need to invest big bucks. For just under a $100, Talbots’ tortoise-chain pebbled leather loafers are a quality choice. Another neutral and comfortable shoe can be found while you’re grabbing groceries or picking up cleaning supplies: Target’s cap-toe quilted ballet flats by Adi Designs, $36.99. They’re reminiscent of legendary Chanel styles but at a fraction of the price. Another trendy find at Target is the Merona Collection Rosaline pointed toe flat in leopard, a perfect bargain at $15 for the woman that wants to try out the safari look in a professional silhouette.

Shopping Resources

• Nine West “Barbe2” Pump, $69
• Kat Pump by Marc Fisher, $60
• Steve Madden Flamed platforms in Blush, $62.97
• Drea Pumps by Karen Scott Shoes, $49
• Jessica Simpson Milana Pump, $55
• Tortoise-chain pebbled leather loathers from Talbots, in Carmelo, $99
• Women’s Adi Designs Cap-Toe Quilted Ballet Flats, $36.99
• Women’s Merona Collection Rosaline Pointed Toe Flats in Leopard, $15

Ali Straka is a graduate of  the University of Missouri School of Journalism. She majored in magazine journalism with a minor in textile and apparel management. She used her experience as a college student to contribute to developing products from University Chic in addition to writing regularly for the site. In her free time, Ali muses about fashion, interior design, and all things pop culture on her blog According to Ali. She hails from the North Shore suburbs of Chicago.