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Dressy shoes that don’t hurt!

(69 Posts)
Flaxseed Wed 18-Sept-24 15:08:41

I am trying to think ahead to a couple of Christmas (sorry to mention the C word!) events I am going to.
I still like fashion and have some nice little (not so little these days!) black dresses that I can wear, but just the thought of wearing my lovely Clarkes, kitten heeled sling backs makes my feet hurt!
They are low but I just find them too uncomfortable.
I have looked online for ideas for ‘dressy’ block heeled sling backs but they are either mega expensive, frumpy or look too painful to wear.
Anyone have any suggestions please?!

Allira Sun 20-Apr-25 10:24:58

petra

Could you not wear them around the house, say half an hour each day?

Spray with leather stretcher and wear them with socks.
Just around the house, not when you go out 😃

NotSpaghetti Sun 20-Apr-25 09:34:06

Wondering what (if anything) uou found flaxseed?

jeanie99 Sun 20-Apr-25 09:30:39

I’ve also been looking for a pair of slingback sandals with a small heel. Something I can wear when I need to dress formal. The pair I’ve always used in the past have a wedge heel of about 3 inch. These are far too high for me now at my age. The problem I’m finding is that I can see the shoes but the heels are too high. What I’d like is a wedge of about 1 1/2 inch which would suit me great, but I’ve been unable to find anything like what I’m looking for. And oh dear, those awful pointed toes why have they now brought them in? They’re absolutely useless for me. Also, I wouldn’t purchase anything over the Internet. I have to try shoes on, can’t be doing with sending multiple shoes back. It is a bit of a headache.

Granmarderby10 Sun 13-Apr-25 09:05:57

Why are so many women’s shoes pointy toed ?

Grannmarie Sat 12-Apr-25 23:45:05

Hello 👋 flaxseed, sorry I'm late to your thread.
I have a pair of Clarks slingbacks with a block heel, similar to Norah's photo, but lower.
Also in my photo are my Hotter black patent leather heels, very comfortable and cushioned, £89.
Maybe either might suit you?

Georgesgran Fri 11-Apr-25 07:02:02

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emiliacarters Tue 08-Apr-25 13:40:36

I totally get the frustration! It's so exciting when you find a pair that meets all your criteria, only to realize the sizing doesn't match. I’ve been there too! If you're a size 4, you might want to check out other brands that offer smaller sizes. Sometimes it's worth reaching out to the store to see if they have additional sizes or if they can recommend similar styles.

Here's a link I found to a stylish and comfortable option that might be worth exploring: www.aerothotic.com/collections/all-comfort-sandals

emiliacarters Tue 08-Apr-25 13:37:03

Finding dressy shoes that are comfortable can be a game-changer! It's all about the right fit and support, especially if you’re on your feet for long hours. Orthotic sandals or shoes designed with comfort in mind can really make a difference. I’ve found that shoes with proper arch support and cushioning make dressy styles much more wearable. Anyone else have suggestions for brands or tips on finding stylish yet pain-free shoes?

RosiesMaw2 Sun 29-Sept-24 21:22:01

Has anybody got experience of Vivaia shoes? Much advertised on Facebook and Instagram but I always have my reservations.

Tuaim Sun 29-Sept-24 20:36:02

I have a lovely pair of black Rieker shoes with a little heel and round toed. They are more for spring/autumn but look very neat.

Kim19 Sun 29-Sept-24 17:09:59

Another vote for Gabor here.

Denni14 Sun 29-Sept-24 13:53:28

Hiya iam 55,me and my other half just started to grow on cruises,he said we have to dress sart on the next one,I don't usually wear high heels which I haven't worn for years,but,I will feel I have to get a decent shoe with a heel to dress smart,as iam only 5ft 2in,as sometimes my feet burn,can anyone suggest anything,iam in the UK,

alfordjennifer Mon 23-Sept-24 09:58:52

If you are looking for more comfortable and classy stuff, you can visit this site: www.nycjackets.com/mens-leather-shoes/

Flaxseed Sat 21-Sept-24 10:07:35

norah they could be a contender, although heel slightly higher than I would have liked. We have a Clarkes in town so I will look.
Thanks to everyone

Oreo Fri 20-Sept-24 12:43:19

I’d never ever buy shoes online they need to be tried on before buying, trying a few pairs in a shop is the best way.Exceptions are for Skechers which once you know your size can be safely bought online.

Norah Fri 20-Sept-24 11:52:01

Flaxseed I have looked online for ideas for ‘dressy’ block heeled sling backs

Clarks are usually comfortable. Maybe these--

Clarks Women's Bayla Joy Pump
4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 27 ratings | Search this page
£73.69£73.69

Dalfie5577 Fri 20-Sept-24 11:35:10

I got some super shoes for a wedding, make Magiopy, from Amazon. It is also very easy to return if they are not quite right.

Nano14 Fri 20-Sept-24 11:11:24

Pearl30

Nano14
Thanks for letting us all know the results of your extra research into this company.

I’ve never used them and as I wasn’t buying from them I didn’t read reviews, nor think about doing so. (I always do check reviews before making a purchase). In future, I’ll make it clear in my posts as I wouldn’t want people disappointed or let down by my suggestions.

A good reminder to all. Thanks Nana14.

Thank you for your reply, Pearl130. I was very disappointed as they're lovely looking shoes and would probably have ordered at least a couple of pairs in different colours.

Tanjamaltija Fri 20-Sept-24 09:29:57

Gel insoles?

Pearl30 Fri 20-Sept-24 07:13:50

Nano14
Thanks for letting us all know the results of your extra research into this company.

I’ve never used them and as I wasn’t buying from them I didn’t read reviews, nor think about doing so. (I always do check reviews before making a purchase). In future, I’ll make it clear in my posts as I wouldn’t want people disappointed or let down by my suggestions.

A good reminder to all. Thanks Nana14.

Nano14 Thu 19-Sept-24 23:17:42

Pearl30

Found a few examples on a google search of comfortable dress shoes for women. Here’s an orthopaedic example, reduced to £49.95 and in size 4. (I hope the link works).
firalli.com/products/lotte-chic-comfort-heels?variant=48330167779673

Had a look at these and love the look of them. I was about to order a pair, but decided to have a look at reviews of Firalli on Trust Pilot. I'm afraid the reviews of this company are terrible.

GreyKnitter Thu 19-Sept-24 23:04:48

I always wear flat black or navy ‘pump’ type shoes. No one rally notices - I hope - and comfort is the order of the day. I’ve bought them in supermarkets and my navy ones were a bargain last autumn in accessorise for £5 in the end of season sale!

Flaxseed Thu 19-Sept-24 22:48:44

Lots of suggestions - Thank you!

Ballet pumps are a total no go. They are too low. I am very short!
Boots won’t go with any of the dresses I have.
Yes, I am very fussy!
I will work through all of the suggestions and am grateful for them all. I had never heard of half of the brands! thanks

Tish Thu 19-Sept-24 19:46:14

Lots of people like Esska… say they are very comfy… look at Vinted for pre-owned, sell them on if they don’t suit… enjoy!