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Choosing the Best Shoes for Work
 ME Dixon
The wrong pair of shoes can ruin an outfit. And while that might not be a big deal when you are going to the mall, it can have a real effect on your professional life. But office shoes do not have to be ugly, uncomfortable or uninspiring. If you pay attention and choose carefully, you can look good and still able to walk at the end of the day.
The first thing you have to keep in mind when choosing footwear for the workplace is the dress code of your organization. It won't do to wear sneakers when everyone else has on Manolo Blahniks. When you first interview or begin a new job, think conservative. Black, dark brown, navy pumps (not more than one-and-a-half inches) will fit in everywhere. As you get a sense for what kind of suit to wear or how dangly your earrings should be, pay attention to the feet. Office shoes for women tend to be not-too-high heels in classic styles. But you can inject a little personality into your business style.
Instead of the basic color palette, try something in a nice wine, or even a dark purple. If your business skews younger, try bolder colors that coordinate with your blouse or accessories. Don't be afraid of buckles or other embellishments, but watch out for overkill (which can make you look immature). Vary the height of the heel; flats are obviously an ideal choice for comfort, and they make for a nice change of pace. Really, as long as you are not wearing five inch stilettos into surgery, you've got plenty of room with heel height these days. And if your workplace favors casual attire, feel free to break out the Nikes. This is also one place where money should be no object: always pay for quality.
The best rule for choosing shoes to wear to work is to follow the culture of the workplace. Your office shoes might not be your favorite shoes, but they will help you present the accomplished, professional image you want to project.
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