12 Comfortable Dress Shoes That Don’t Compromise on Style

When it comes to choosing any pair of shoes, prioritize your comfort. We can't tell you how often we've been in a pinching, too-narrow pair of shoes wishing we'd tried them on before buying.

Of course, comfort varies from person to person, but you should pay special attention to the various widths and the kind of footbed it has. Does it have a padded insole and arch support? If so, the shoe is likely to be comfier, especially in the early days of wearing it, before it's broken in.

Considering where and when you'll wear your shoes will also help you in the long run. Loafers, for example, are far more versatile and easy to dress up and down than oxfords. A slip-on shoe is the better choice if you need to get in and out of them quickly (e.g., if you're traveling). Other details like the construction of your shoe are important, too. A Goodyear welt adds some water resistance that a Blake construction doesn't. Color and material are other essential considerations in picking your perfect pair of shoes. Are you going to wear them in a place where the weather is inclement? If so, you may want to find a waterproof option. What about the dress code for the event you're RSVPing to? If you're looking for dress shoes for day-to-day wear, hey, dealer's choice on the color, but if you're attending, say, a black-tie wedding, you're going to want a more traditional hue like black.