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There was a time, not all that long ago, when "office-worthy shoes" exclusively meant pumps, or, perhaps, a ballet flat. Luckily for our pinched toes and aching arches, we're now living squarely in the comfort clothing era, and sneakers have readily made the jump from streetwear favorite to everyday essential. Even most buttoned-up offices now make space for a sneaker in their dress code—but that doesn't mean the pair workhorse shoes you cleaned out the garage in will be welcome in the boardroom. The work sneakers of today must meet the demands of both style and comfort, balancing your desire to make your feet feel great with the need to look professional and put together. Of course, there are plenty of brands who have stepped up to the proverbial plate, offering up wow-worthy sneakers for every style sensibility, and every office environment.
Quiet Luxury
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Vieirissima two-tone leather sneakers
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Best for Travel
ILSE JACOBSEN Tulip 140 Slip-on Sneakers
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Whether you're hustling around on your feet all day, or just want a pair of sneakers to bring some much-needed cool to a staple work wardrobe, these are the work sneakers you should add to your closet immediately.
If they're dressy enough for the Princess of Wales, they're surely appropriate for the office. Made with leather uppers and a rubber outsole, these classic white sneakers get a touch of pizzaz courtesy of contrasting metallic details.
Allbirds have made their name on their sustainably-minded construction—these are crafted with fibers made from eucalyptus trees, sugarcane- and castor bean-based foams for the soles, and shoelaces derived from recycled plastic bottles—for a shoe that feels as good on your conscience as it does on your foot.
While it comes in more than half a dozen colorways, this monochrome taupe is particularly stylish for when you want a sneaker that doesn't scream "athletic shoe."
For a more conservative office, turn to this sneaker-Oxford hybrid. The classic leather upper, designed with laser-cut details, evokes a timeless workwear staple, but the EVA and rubber soles are made with Cole Haan's Grand.ØS sneaker technology to make them super flexible, lightweight, and comfortable enough to stay on your feet in all day long.
One reviewer writes: "These are beautifully made, super lightweight, comfy & stylish. Goes well with skirts, jeans, trousers & even joggers. Great sneaker alternative."
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The Adidas Samba became one of the It shoes of 2023, and its fashion cred isn't going away any time soon. One of the brand's best-selling sneakers, the sporty style has been around since the 1950s, giving it a timeless appeal that's offset by the undeniably athletic edge—throw them on with your favorite suit to instantly give a buttoned-up look editorial vibes.
The handwoven leather upper of these Tuscan-made shoes just screams luxury—they're sure to fit in to even the most conservative office dress code. Available in sever colors, you won't be able to resist buying more than one of these super comfy slip-ons.
Quiet Luxury
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Vieirissima two-tone leather sneakers
Quiet Luxury
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Vieirissima two-tone leather sneakers
Turn up the volume on your basic white sneakers with the dynamic red piping on these chunky-soled Louboutin sneakers. The pop of color adds just the right je ne sais quoi for a sense of IYKYK luxury.
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Available in 7 shades and finishes, including this chic neutral suede, this low top has high-low appeal that is great for bringing some cool-factor to a suit set or a simple work dress.
Looking for a do-it-all white sneaker? This option, made from recycled leather, is a perfect middle ground. It's slightly chunkier than a classic canvas low top, but more streamlined than trendy, eye-catching sneaks. It's also a fan favorite for a surprisingly cushy interior, with added adding at the heel, making them comfortable to wear no matter how many steps you need to get in.
One reviewer writes: "I was looking for some sneakers I can wear to work! These are perfect!"
Bring a flirty, femme touch with a pair of blush pink sneakers. The color makes them an unexpected choice, yet they're not so outside of the box as to feel inappropriate at the office.
One reviewer writes: "I wasn’t sure what to expect after having a similar style in Vejas but wow - I can’t get over how comfortable these are! It’s like wearing slippers. My feet are so happy! I had absolutely 0 break in period which was fabulous and my first day wearing them I walked close to 8 kilometres and didn’t have a single issue. They are a quick go-to for me!!"
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Best for Travel
ILSE JACOBSEN Tulip 140 Slip-on Sneakers
Best for Travel
ILSE JACOBSEN Tulip 140 Slip-on Sneakers
These slip-on sneakers are practically built for travel—perfect for a job that keeps you on the go. The soft, perforated upper is breezy and comfortable, while the flexible rubber sole is ultra light yet sturdy, so they won't add weight to your go-bag.Better yet, they're fully stitched, so you never have to worry about glue giving up the ghost, and machine washable.
The royal family knows a little something abut stylish sneakers, so when there's a brand that multiple royals love—both Kate Middleton and Princess Diana were pictured in Supergas—we have to take note. The low top canvas styling not only goes with everything, it's utterly defiant of trends, meaning you'll be able to wear them from work to play for years and years to come.
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The "low-key rich bitch" look is still going strong, but labels are making a return this season. If you're looking to flash a bit of swag, these Prada stamped sneaks bridge the gap with just the right touch of elegance and shine.
Ample texture takes this pair of navy sneakers (they're also available in white and taupe) to the next level, creating immediate interest even in your most pared-back looks.
Preppy Essential
Tory Burch Double T Howell Court Sneaker
Preppy Essential
Tory Burch Double T Howell Court Sneaker
What's not to love about a sneaker with a Tory Burch sensibility. Available in four iterations—a white base with shell pink, navy, white, or black accents—this logo sneaker adds a dress-up factor to a workhorse style.
Lauren Hubbard
Writer
Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and co*cktails.