I believe it’s important for our special occasion shoes to be as comfortable as our everyday pairs. You learn this lesson quickly on the pageant circuit! Ill-fitting ones can cause anything from pain and blisters to inflammation and deformities. The former may not be a big deal, but the latter can have long-lasting effects and end up being quite costly to remedy. Buying shoes that hurt is also a waste of money, because you’ll never want to wear them (remember to ask yourself if it’s spending or an investment)! Instead, I will always encourage you to buy ones that fit well the first time. These are nine of the most comfortable dress shoes for women on the market right now.

Draper James Tess Slingbacks

Higher heels don’t necessarily equate to a more uncomfortable shoe, but it’s certainly more common. These kitten heels add a little bit of height, with the large bow creating the illusion of more. The wider toe box, padded sole and strap all make them even easier to wear.

Marc Fisher Hadais Slip-On Pointy Toe High Heel Mules

What I love about these mules is that although the 3.35 inch heel is thinner, both the bottom of it and the toe piece are wider, which makes them a little bit more comfortable by taking some pressure off you.

Sam Edelman Yaro Ankle Strap Sandal

At 3.75 inches in height, these sandals are a touch higher than the previous ones, but just as comfortable, if not more so, due to the block heel design. It’s important to have a pair of classic, versatile heels you can depend on, and these are a great price!

Chanel Lampskin Quilted Cap Toe Ballerina Flats 40

Chanel flats like these will forever be on my list of the most comfortable dress shoes for women. The lambskin leather is incredibly soft and malleable, so there’s virtually no break-in period. Plus, the quality and versatility is fantastic, so you’ll absolutely be able to justify the cost!

Jimmy Choo Bing 100 Embellished High Heel Mules

Few shoe brands are more exquisite than Jimmy Choo. These four inch mules are a work of art, and I actually love how they don’t look comfortable even though they are! Remember to go a half size up or they’ll pinch your feet.

Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Toe Pump

A timeless pump like this is great to wear for the office and formal events alike. Despite being four inches high with a pointed toe, the throat is generously sized to give your toes more room instead of squeezing them!

Jon Josef Belle Quilted Ballerina Flat

Quilted cap toe ballet flats are always going to be elegant, whether or not they’re Chanel. Ballet flats often require a significant break-in period, but these are comfortable out of the box! Sizing feedback varies some, but it’s best to go down a half size.

Sam Edelman Hyland Pointed Toe Mule

If you like the look of the Jimmy Choos, this pair is a beautiful way to get it for less. I just love the embellished pearls on the straps! Just like the Choos, they look painful to wear even though surprisingly, they’re really not. Go up half a size!

Loeffler Randall Camellia Bow High Heel Sandals

These Loeffler Randall sandals are iconic, and absolutely one of the most comfortable dress shoes for women! Even though they’re 3.5 inches tall, the block heel helps provide a lot of support. It’s worth noting that some recommend going up a half size, especially if you have a wider foot.