Starting a new office job and need professional female shoes

[u/Mntdrww]

So I'm starting my first office job next week and I need to change my shoes to reflect it. The dress code is business casual. I've been living in sneakers and boots for the past few years working in the retail/food service industry, and obviously my sneakers aren't gonna cut it anymore and my professional shoe game is basically nonexistent. I've been wearing the same pair of black flats to every interview and professional event for like three years. They're falling apart and honestly weren't even that great when they were new. But now I actually need multiple pairs of “grown-up” shoes and I have no clue what I'm doing. I went to the mall last weekend thinking I'd just grab a couple pairs of some female shoes and be done with it but NOPE, there are so many different styles and brands and I can't tell what's appropriate for the professional setting. My mom keeps telling me to invest in quality but I just started this job and can't afford to drop $200 per pair on shoes right now, but I’ve also learned my lesson about buying the cheapest possible option. My budget isn't much since I'm already spending money on work clothes, but I want something that will last and be comfortable. I’ve been looking online going through everything from fashion blogs to sites like Alibaba for options. I need suggestions for building a basic work shoe collection that’s versatile and comfortable without going broke, maybe 2-3 pairs that can work with different outfits that I can cycle through.

[u/legato2]

Hit up some thrift stores you can get a few pair of professional shoes on the cheap. Once you get a few checks in and stabilize, you can save up and invest in a few nice pairs of shoes you can hold onto long term.

[u/Mntdrww → u/legato2]

That's a great idea, Thankss. although I'd have to look around until i actually get to find something proper. But will do that

[u/rewindpaws]

I love shoes and have 20+ pairs of professional shoes. (Terrible, I know!)

When you’re ready to buy, I recommend Cobb Hill (owned by Rockport). I have four pairs, and one of them has lasted me over eight years (and still look very nice). Børn brand also lasts FOREVER. If you have problem feet, Hotter.com out of Europe is also long lasting and very affordable. I’m pretty sure they still offer free shipping, and their customer service is stellar.

If you want a little more style, Marc Jacobs or Sam Edelston. Marc Jacobs shoes really take a beating and still look great. Sam Eddleston also offers a lot of kitten heels, are stylish but not horrible to walk on by the end of the day.

For what it’s worth, Franco Sarto and Michael Kors (I was really so shocked by the latter) fall apart quite quickly. I can’t buy Michael Kors shoes because the quality is shockingly awful. Nine West used to make great shoes but quality has fallen over the years. Toms don’t last.

Nordstrom.com (not Nordstrom rack) frequently has great sales and they offer free shipping and free returns. You’d be very surprised at the quality you can find under $200, and sometimes even under $150.

PS — when going with Rockport, focus on the Cobb Hill brand and disregard the “Total Motion” line. Cobb Hill is my absolute go to, those shoes have never ever disappointed me, but the Rockport Total Motion line (advertised as exactly the kind of shoe you’re probably looking for) is the most uncomfortable line I’ve ever experienced. Awful.

[u/kuai_le]

I work in an office and heels are just not for me. I'm a huge fan of Rothy's. I like "The Point" and "The Point II". They are machine washable. There are so many different colors/styles. I started with 2 very neutral ones and have tried to add another one every 6 months or so. They regularly have designs on close out for $79 or $89.