Shoes For Work?

I don't believe there should be such a thing as a 'work shoe'! Think about it. Why should there have to be a particular style, colour or design that only suits work? The work shoe is a look that has been created by office professionals, companies and society. It's a shoe that fits into an image and that image is plain, dark and not at all flattering!

I've done it myself. For the office, whether you agree or not, you need to look professional and smart. Personally, I think you need to be comfortable. What do you look for when you choose a shoe? Maybe a heel but it will always be pretty plain and probably dark.

What about colours? Now I know you maybe can't go to the office looking smart with a bright orange or turquoise pair of shoes shouting from the bottom of your legs. But you can, choose shoes that not only make you look fabulous but still fit into the smart professional look.

Before I go any further, always try to choose leather or suede shoes. This is particularly important for work because synthetic materials will make your feet sweat more. Canvas or other fabric just won't work with smarter clothes, keep them for the casual look.

Here's some ideas on colours to choose:-

Red looks fantastic worn with cream or black coloured clothes. Green is the most soothing, calming and easy on the eye colour, of any colour in the spectrum. But do be careful with the outfit you choose to match.

Everyone should own at least one pair of black shoes. Black works with everything you wear. Black does not have to be boring. Black shoes with diamantes, studs, buckles or beads can add a hint of glamour. Brown or earthy tones look good with similar coloured clothes. Pink. Maybe you think it's not suitable for work? Maybe not hot pink, but a delicate rose or baby pink works well with a matching shirt or blouse and a dark suit.

Blue C never wear blue with black. You will take yourself back to 1980 and although retro is quite in fashion, this combo doesn't work well. Navy is just navy. It works best only with white. White C during Spring and Summer white works well with just about any colour. Try not to mix too many colours at once though!

Now you have an idea on colour think about styles. Heels are always a good option because they give you so many benefits. A little height, great posture. Remember though, you are likely to be wearing them all day so you're probably better off opting for only a couple of inches in height, at most. Wedge heels are an absolute must for this summer. They are very fashionable, have all the advantages of a heel but are far easier to walk in and far more comfortable. They come in many colours and fabrics, so you'll be sure to match some with something.

Round or open-toed shoes with a wedge heel and ankle strap look fabulous with a knee length skirt. Pointed toes lengthen your overall look whether worn with trousers or a skirt, therefore give the illusion of greater height. Kitten heels are great to wear for work because they only have a 1 or 2 inch heel. They are comfortable, but look chic and stylish. Choose a different colour with perhaps a buckle or strap detail across the front, to add interest.


Always choose a kitten heeled shoe with a pointed toe. This particular style teams well with a skirt or trousers. If you want to wear a knee high boot, always allow yourself a little expense. There is nothing worse than cheap knee high boots. A well made leather pair of knee high boots will cost you from around ?60 upwards. It's worth spending that little more to get good quality. Cheap knee high boots will make you look like you are ready to get the whip out and you certainly dont want to pull that kind of look off whilst you are at work. If not made of leather, you'll find them sticking to your legs when you want to get them off!

There are times when its just too hot to wear closed shoes or boots, even in England! Leather flip flops or flat sandals look really smart and chic with flared linen trousers. Make sure you've booked that pedicure! If you are wearing an ankle length skirt, flat shoes/sandals for summer will work well. If you have a knee length or shorter skirt go for a wedge or kitten heel.

Avoid teetering high heels with shorter skirts at all costs. You might have drop dead gorgeous legs, but you'll be terribly uncomfortable and if you want the smart chic professional look, this just isn't it. Less is not always more!

Slingback shoes or mules are a good option for warmer weather. They allow your feet to breathe, team well with trousers or skirts and they're smart.

Remember, experiment with colour and go for an unusual style or design. If your outfit is plain an understated, let the world know you mean business with a stylish pair of shoes!

About the Author :

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