Newsflash: You Don’t Have to Sacrifice Comfort for Style

With age (hopefully) comes wisdom. It took me until my late thirties to face the fact that high-heeled shoes are the devil, and that I needed to revamp my shoe collection.

In my teens, twenties and early thirties, I thought high-heels exuded confidence and sexiness (they don’t). Being close to six feet tall, it’s not like I needed the extra height, so I don’t know why I put myself through the discomfort (and sometimes downright pain) of wearing, walking, and even dancing in high heels. Moreover, I never felt 100% secure moving in them. Though you might not have been able to tell by looking at me, I often felt like one false move in high-heeled shoes would lead to disaster. Though I (thankfully) never took a spill in them, I have, on more occasions than I can count, dealt with blisters and cuts and toe and calf cramps as a result of wearing those ill-fitting shoes.

The most fun I ever had dancing was at my sister’s wedding reception when I was nine months pregnant and the temperature outside reached 104 degrees fahrenheit. How was that possible, you ask? Because, despite the heat and the extra few pounds I was carrying, my feet were comfortable. I was wearing flat sandals that night, and I danced my heart out. It was amazing!

Fast forward to my forties and now, fifties, where after years of running and yoga practice I have quite a few foot issues that require I don much more forgiving footwear – cue the investment in multiple pairs of Birkenstock sandals and boots. But, what about those times where I want to look stylish, classy and just a little more put-together? Is there a shoe that can deliver all of that while still being comfortable? The answer is YES! It’s the shoe that’s been there all along, but truly gained traction in 1965 when mod culture was at it’s height.

That shoe ladies, is the low-block heel.

More elevated (pun intended) than a ballet flat, and more lady-like than loafers, the low-block heel offers stability and goes with almost everything: A pair of wide leg jeans? Check? A pair of flares or (even better) cropped, kick flares? Check? A short or knee-length skirt? Check. Leggings? Check. Dress pants? Check, check! The only garment that the block heel wouldn’t work for would be a ball gown and seriously, how often do you wear one of those? (I have opted for flat dress sandals or kitten heels on those occasions when I do).

While I sing the praises of the low-block heel, I will add, it’s not that easy to find the perfect pair. The cut of the shoe can very easily enter “Grandmaville” (and not in a good way) if you’re not careful. I look for a rounded or slightly squared toe and classic materials such as leather, suede (or faux suede). Moreover, the vamp of the shoe, the front leather or fabric piece covering your toes, can’t be too high or too low on your foot. It should end right before your toes begin.

Recently, I found my perfect pair of low-block heels at Macy’s. It’s the Women’s Gerriee Block-Heel Pump by Style & Co. After buying one pair and walking, teaching and climbing stairs in them all day without any discomfort whatsoever, I ordered two more pairs, so that I now have all the colors available (Port Wine (burgundy), Dark Roast (brown), and Black Micro (black)). The best part: I got them at for 40% off (less than $40 per pair!) during a sale.

Please note, I am NOT being sponsored for this post or receiving any commission if you use the link provided (though I wish I was!). I just genuinely love my new shoes and needed to share my find.

I will add that my feet have a very high arch and are narrow and slim. The shoes by Style & Co fit me perfectly, and in my experience are true to size. If your feet are built similarly, I think they will work perfectly for you as well. If not, shop around! There are many options of this shoe style available.

For example, another beautiful option is the Saruh shoe by Nine West. The cognac suede is a classic, and goes with any clothing color combination (see photo below).

If you’re looking for a beautiful and comfortable shoe to go from day to night, casual brunch to business meeting, coffee at a cafe to date night at a restaurant, the low-block heel is your shoe. Can I substitute a low-block heels for sneakers? No, but I’m not working out in these shoes; these shoes are working for me, and due to their versatility, they are putting in major overtime.

Happy shopping, and may your footwear be forever stylish and comfy!