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31 Shoes You Can Wear With A Fancy Dress, That *Aren’t* Stilettos

Cheers to walking without the fear of breaking an ankle or painful blisters. 🥂

Posted 7 hours ago

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by Flavia C Nunez BuzzFeed Contributor

I am a contributor and former fashion editor with over a decade of experience creating fashion content, previously leading the fashion department at award-winning magazine Real Simple, where I expanded and deepened audience through trend forecasting, creative storytelling, and inclusiveness.

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

1. A glitzy slip-on heel that's the answer to your prayers if you want the height of a heel without the "I need to sit down right now" energy of a stiletto. It features a sturdy block heel and a bling-y tube-like strap design that provides extra security and will make you feel stable and confident, even if the floor is grass or cobblestones. 

DSW

Promising review: "Love these shoes! It's hard to find a fun and pretty pair of shoes that aren't too tall, aren't hard to walk in and don't hurt - but I did! I am excited to wear these to my son's wedding this summer." —LindaLJ

Get it from DSW for $99.99 (available in sizes 5–12, medium, wide, and extra wide fit, and four colors).

2. A pointed slingback flat, which proves that you don't need a single inch of height to look like the most sophisticated person in the room. Reviewers love that they're a true "all-day" shoe, easily transitioning from the office to a black-tie event without skipping a beat.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These were the most adorable flat mesh pointy toe flats. You can dress them up or down. True to size. Slip-resistant. While they don’t have an arch support, they are so comfortable. I bought them for my mom, but we wear the same size, and we both have bunions. I wanted to test them out for her, and hands down, they are so comfortable." —amanda saeed

Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes 6–10, two styles, and 13 colors/prints).

3. A versatile strappy heel to give you just enough lift to feel dressed up while keeping your feet blissfully pain-free. With a sensible 2-1/3-inch heel and an eye-catching metallic stud that adds a subtle modern touch to any formal look, these won't pinch or dig into your toes even after hours of wear.

Loft

Promising reviews: "Great heel height. Fun green color with a gold-tone ball. Good fit and comfortable." —sueshopper63

"Purchased for a reception and they did not disappoint! Cute sandal and dance floor ready!!!!" —Loftfav

Get it from Loft for $44.99+ (originally $89.99+; available in sizes 5–11 and four colors).

4. A floral slip-on sandal so stunning, they seriously look like they belong at the Musée d’Orsay instead of your feet. And, yes, the blooms are what make them come alive, but it's the metallic base that acts as a perfect neutral, while the almost-flat heel means you can spend the entire time on your feet instead of hiding them under a table.

Zappos

Get it from Zappos for $119 (available in sizes 6–11 and gold).

5. A minimalist wedge sandal for when you don't want to sacrifice an ounce of stability. The sleek, low wedge helps you evenly distribute your weight, so you don't have to worry about icing your ankles when you get home. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These sandals are so comfortable with the wedge heel. Wore at a wedding for five hours. Beautiful gold." —Cindi

Get it from Amazon for $25.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and seven colors).

6. A bejeweled lace pump to channel the princess in you without the risk of tripping or "accidentally" leaving one of the shoes behind — that's what the adjustable slingback strap and walkable heel are for. 

Nordstrom

Get it from Nordstrom for $59.40 (originally $99; available in sizes 5–11 and two colors).

7. An eye-catching bow sandal, because if we can provide a similar style that's as comfortable and remarkable as the original, we shall! Especially when they are the absolute definition of "party up front, comfort in the back," all thanks to the all-over statement-making pleated fabric. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Loooove these super cute and comfortable shoes. Sturdy heel. Great for a night out. I loved the way my pink toes and the bow peeked out from my dress." —Joy Astle

Get it from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in sizes 6–12, five styles, and 12 colors/prints).

8. A leather heeled sandal with an interlinked double strap that still looks unbelievably elegant next to a room full of stilettos, and a danceable heel that proves that you don't have to completely abandon the height to last ’til the final song. 

Banana Republic

Get it from Banana Republic for $149.97 (originally $248; available in sizes 5–11 and two colors).

9. A sculpted wedge pump that's an absolute masterpiece for anyone wanting to inject structural, high-fashion drama into a fancy outfit without the stiletto struggle. Plus, the wedge delivers a wobble-free layout that thin heels simply can't match. 

Marc Fisher

Get it from Marc Fisher for $150 (available in sizes 6–11 and three colors).

10. A funky platform heel for anyone who wants serious retro height without the steep incline of a traditional heel. And if you're about to say, "but a platform is just as high as a stiletto," you're technically right, but a platform drastically reduces the actual slant of your foot so it feels more like walking in a comfortable mid-heel rather than being on a pointe shoe.

Anthropologie

Promising reviews: "Not only so cute but so comfortable. I’ll be getting more colors." —bpatel

"I love this shoe so much! It is the perfect platform, because it is comfortable and the heel drop isn't too high, so you get the height without the pain! I am usually a 7–7.5 shoe, and I took a 38 in this style. It isn't super tight but also not too loose around the toe box (some other reviews mention it's very loose). I feel it is secure enough! I don't like when they are super tight. I have a narrow foot with a slightly wide toe box. Definitely recommend this shoe!" —Anonymous

Get it from Anthropologie for $168 (available in sizes 5–10.5 and eight colors).

11. A strappy slingback sandal so incredibly chic that it'll become your lifesaver for wedding season. They pair an ultra-walkable kitten heel with an of-the-moment square toe that gives any fancy dress a fresh, modern update. Plus, they are so comfortable, you can go straight from the ceremony to a packed reception dance floor without a second thought.

J.Crew

Promising review: "I bought these shoes for a wedding — wow, were they comfortable! I lasted six hours in them on the first wear, and I don’t wear heels often! They are really beautiful on the foot. Very minimal lines, but so pretty and feminine! Thrilled with the purchase." —Han07

Get it from J.Crew for $168 (available in sizes 5–12 and black).

12. A sparkly slingback flat featuring a rhinestone pointed-toe silhouette that would look stunning peeking out from under a long dress. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "Love these shoes. Cute and comfortable! Bought to wear to a wedding and received many compliments. Fit true to size. I can't wear heels anymore, and they made me feel sexy." —Cake Lady

"I bought the black satin slings, wear a true size 8, and have a WIDE foot. Pointy-toed shoes and wide feet do not normally mesh, but I must say these fit perfectly. The jeweled strap across the top fits slightly loose and has elastic on the inside edge. The ankle strap is adjustable and has elastic for a comfy feel (see the pictures). I love a dressy shoe but prefer flats, and this shoe gives both with a non-skid bottom. I have only walked inside, but they feel comfortable and have a classy look. How cute… they included a small bag with a couple of extra stones!! These are a win-win for me." —Audrey

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 6–11, three styles, and 11 colors).

13. A dainty two-strap kitten heel to add a coquette-chic touch to your evening ensemble, and that'll keep you dancing past midnight without putting your arches through the wringer. Just look at the delicate bows and tell me they don't have sweet and romantic written all over them in bold capital letters, go ahead.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I love these shoes! Just wore them to a very long graduation, and my feet didn't hurt at all. Perfect heel height and straps fit snugly but not too tightly. I did size down from a normal 7 to 6.5." —Trudy

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 6–11, four styles, and 15 colors).

14. A reflective metallic kitten heel, which is basically a disco ball for your feet with an itty bitty heel that provides just the right amount of dressy elevation.

DSW

Promising review: "I recently bought these, and I have worn them once and received so many compliments. They are comfortable and stylish and can be dressed up or down. I am glad I added them to my wardrobe." —Peonies4

Get it from DSW for $64.99 (originally $120; available in sizes 5–10 and a wide fit).

15. A delicate strappy heel similar to the ones a certain coming-back-to-country-music legendary songwriter wore not long ago during a viral interview. And if that doesn't sell them to you, then the barely-there look should seal the deal.

Quince

Promising review: "These are comfy, good thickness of heel for grass at a wedding, and fit true to size! Normally an 8 and that fit perfectly!" —Kristen

Get it from Quince for $68 (available in sizes 5–10 and four colors).

16. A breathable woven flat that'll become your secret weapon when you can't even stand the thought of putting on heels. These aren't your average basic flats; these have a modern square toe and an artisanal finish that makes them feel immediately luxurious and high-end. 

Sam Edelman

Promising review: "These shoes are even more beautiful in person! The woven texture is surprisingly comfortable and felt amazing right out of the box. This is the perfect shoe to add interest to any spring or summer outfit." —KNThar

Get it from Sam Edelman for $140 (available in sizes 5–12, wide fits, and five colors).

17. A beautiful flower accent sandal, because who said treating your feet to premium sneaker-like comfort is impossible in a fancy shoe? With a plush memory foam insole that absorbs impact so you don't feel the bite of the 3-inch heel, these "something blue" cuties are the perfect accessory to a botanical garden wedding.

Target

Get it from Target for $45 (available in sizes 6–11).

18. An adorable satin kitten heel so you can nail a classic, delicate aesthetic without punishing your feet. And complete with an adjustable ankle strap that features a secure buckle, these satin-finish beauties stay locked in place so you can comfortably mingle, walk, and dance the night away.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Really like these, they are cute, and MOST IMPORTANTLY THEY ARE COMFORTABLE!! I don't wear heels, if ever, so as you can see, I've bought four different heels: two from Target, size 8, and the other two from Amazon, size 8.5, and all but this one hurt the hell out of my feet. Idk if I was buying the wrong size, but I just have to return them. Tried these and they are nice, velvety, and wide enough for my foot to widen so I can walk properly. I'm thinking about buying another color." —Rachel

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 6–11 and 11 colors/prints).

19. A geometric transparent heel that has all the "main character" vibes of a glass slipper without the actual pain, 'cause we all know it's impossible Cinderella didn't have bloody feet once she got back from the ball. 

Nordstrom

Promising review: "Never knew about this brand before, so with very low expectations on a whim I bought these sandals... To my surprise, they are super comfy, for the heel shape and the little ball in front. My feet are not on the slim side, so if it doesn't bother me, I bet nobody else will complain :)" —WikiBlue

Get it from Amazon for $112.46+ (originally $149.95; available in sizes 5–11 and four colors).

20. A statement slide sandal, since you got labeled the "cool" pal of the group and have to live up to the name. These padded and super cushiony kitten heels provide significantly more surface area and stability than a standard stiletto, making them surprisingly easy to walk in.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I can’t wear high heels anymore, but that hasn’t taken away my love for gorgeous shoes. I’m so sick of only seeing high heels on the prettiest shoes, and then I saw these. They are sculpturally just beautiful. Another bonus is that they are so comfy, like slippers, and I wore them for hours without discomfort." —Sonja

Get it from Amazon for $71.20+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 10 colors).

21. A dazzling embellished pump that'll catch the light beautifully with every step and brings all the opulence of a luxury designer piece without the price tag. 

Nordstrom Rack

Promising review: "Not only are these shoes beautiful, but they are also comfortable and very festive! Can’t wait to wear them to The Nutcracker ballet and on many other occasions! These are truly a perfect pair of party shoes!" —Tatyana K

Get it from Nordstrom Rack for $129.97 (originally $235; available in sizes 5–9 and three colors).

22. A textured slingback kitten heel made from a soft, comfortable, and snug knit material that provides moisture-absorption and looks as durable as it is. And, honestly, because sometimes all you need is a sophisticated shape that'll add oomph to your look in a subtle way. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "SO CUTEEEEE. I have big, wide feet, and they are amazing. They seem comfy so far. So bougie.😍" —Greta

"I absolutely love these shoes. They look exactly like the picture and are very elegant. The kitten heel is the perfect height — it adds a classy touch without being too high, so I can wear them for hours without my feet hurting.

"The sizing was accurate (I ordered my usual size), and the material feels good for the price. They’re perfect for work, formal events, or even a nice dinner out.

"I would definitely buy them again and highly recommend them if you’re looking for something classic, comfortable, and stylish. ✨" —IsabelC

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 16 colors).

23. Another chunky platform heel so you can reach gravity-defying heights without forfeiting your feet to a painful incline. They pair an almost 5-inch block heel with a chunky front platform sole, which dramatically reduces the actual slope of your foot so it feels much lower than it looks.

Steve Madden

Promising review: "The shoes are exceptionally comfortable, and the heel is super manageable. The flowers and beads are absolutely adorable, and the shoes look gorgeous on. The fabric is very pretty, and the shoes are great for any sort of event and can be danced in." —Lucca W.

Get it from Steve Madden for $49.99+ (originally $119.95+; available in sizes 5–12, wide fits, and 11 colors).

24. A staple square-toe kitten heel everyone should have a pair of in their wardrobe. Besides being extremely versatile, they're comfortable enough to walk and dance in without a single complaint, so I'm thinking you might get more than just a pair. 

Nordstrom Rack

Promising review: "Bought these for a formal event. The packaging is so nice, but the heels are a dream. They look even better in person! Fantastic quality, they fit well, and are comfortable. I’ll be wearing these with a gown, but they will also look great dressed down with a pair of jeans! I’m very pleased with my purchase!" —MadelineMarie

Get it from Nordstrom Rack for $49.97 (originally $99; available in sizes 5–12 and six colors).

25. A fab sequin mule because they're incredibly effortless to throw on, while still making a remarkable statement. Best part? The open back ensures your feet stay happy and blister free. 

Dolce Vita

Promising review: "So cute! Thought they’d be difficult to keep on, but I wore them all night, no issues." —Katie S.

Get it from Dolce Vita for $99.90 (originally $125; available in sizes 5–13 and five colors).

26. A whimsical flower strappy sandal with a striking 3D floral corsage that immediately transforms the shoe into a piece of art — seriously, water lilies who? — and that'll inevitably be the start of every single conversation you have throughout the night. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Oh my goodness! These are the cutest, most comfortable shoes that I’ve worn! Some friends took me out for lunch for my birthday. This ended up with them taking me to a 60th surprise party that evening. I was in those shoes for 10+ hours, and they NEVER hurt my feet! Best shoes ever! I got so many compliments! I wear a size 8, and they fit me perfectly. I think the strap that goes around the ankle just holds the shoes on, but isn’t tight! I definitely recommend these!!!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $40.84+ (available in sizes 6–11, two styles, and eight colors).

27. A shimmery block heel pump that'll add instant magic to any evening attire. They blend glamour and practicality, with a translucent mesh upper sprinkled with rhinestones that catch the light from every angle, and the perfect heel height that means you can easily stay on your feet until your heart desires. 

DSW

Promising review: "I purchased these for my daughter's wedding. They look so nice with my dress, and they are just the right height heel." —Sue o

Get it from DSW for $89.99 (available in sizes 4–13 and seven colors).

28. A colorful block heel sandal, which brings a fresh, playful spirit to formal dressing, and seamlessly mixes tropical fun with an architectural heel. 

Nordstrom

Get it from Nordstrom for $104.99 (originally $134.95; available in sizes 6–10).

29. A simple slingback block heel with a cushioned foam insole and lightweight outsole that makes them a dream for anyone who plans on hitting the dance floor early and staying there all night.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These shoes are super cute — getting lots of compliments! I wasn’t sure if I should get the wide or the regular, as pointy-toed shoes can be very narrow, so I bought both. I generally wear a size seven medium. I felt like the wide was a little more comfortable; however, the medium size also fit fine, and had some give to it, so I decided to keep both." —AMB

Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes 5–12, wide fits, and 10 colors).

30. A fun ankle wrap kitten heel because, in case you haven't noticed, jelly shoes are the it footwear of the season, but you'll be one of the first ones to bring the trend into the formal space with this pair. 

Zappos

Get it from Zappos for $198 (available in sizes 5–10 and clear).

31. And lastly, a lightweight thong sandal because, if you're anything like me, you're always the last one to leave the venue, and whether we want it or not, sometimes we need a "change-into" shoe that looks just as good but feels way more comfy.

Zappos

Promising review: "I was worried that it would look very plastic and rubbery, because I wanted a pair of simple, dressy, and comfortable shoes that can be dressed up and down, also rainy weather friendly. All the leather ones are either $100 or very thin, stiff, cheap soles. This is so perfect, I have white and black, and I feel comfortable wearing them to parties with long black dresses. Very happy!" —GRACie

Get it from Zappos for $31.99+ (originally $39.95+; available in sizes 4–11 and eight colors).

Still looking for the perfect pair of shoes for *y-o-u*? Try these:

* These 42 Shoes Are So Comfortable, "Foot Pain," "Blisters," And "Chafing" Simply Aren’t In Their Vocabulary

* Pairs Of Shoes Reviewers Say Are *Perfect* To Bring On Vacation

* Versatile Shoes And Accessories That’ll Help You Complete So Many Different Looks

Plus, platform and wedge sandals, and finds from DSW, Nordstrom, Walmart, and Zappos.

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