The Search For Pretty, Comfy Shoes

I have no idea how I used to go to work everyday in heels when I was in my 20s. Maybe it's because the heels then were thick and chunky, maybe my feet got worn down with two pregnancies, or maybe I was just younger then!

Anyway, it seems like no shoes with a non-wedge heel more than two inches is comfortable nowadays. But there are occasions when I don't want to show up in Dansko Mary Janes (even though they are cute!).

Since I've been going to conferences several times a year -- and these events require me to both be on my feet much of the day and also look professions -- I think I need to search for some new shoes.

I had a pair of Cole Haan Air Tali patent leather wedges, but even though the wedge heel was very low, they didn't stretch with my feet and very really painful. I ended up donating them, after walking around the French Quarter barefoot -- these were so uncomfortable.

Cole Haan is still one of my favorite brands for dressy shoes that are also easy on the feet. The particular Air Tali style I had (with a patent covered wedge) has been discontinued. Zappos still sells a newer version, but they mostly have cork or wood heels and the leather doesn't look as nice. However, that doesn't stop me from coveting a pair in nude or the tan snakeskin.

Cole Haan Air Tali wedge, $168 at Zappos.com

I bought a pair of higher heeled Cole Haan pumps last summer, but decided the events I've been going to involve too much walking, and have yet to wear them.


Recently, I discovered the brand Corso Como, whose shoes are also supposed to be designed with comfort in mind. I bought a pair of their boots last fall (they were $100 at Costco), and while they did feel great on my feet, my husband notice they didn't fit my calves right, and so were returned.

I'm eyeing a pair of their nude patent leather pumps now:

 Craven pumps, $129 at the Corso Como website. 

These choices are more expensive than I generally like to pay for shoes, although I did see some similar Corso Como styles at Nordstrom Rack, although I didn't stop to try them on.

However, I'll say that I've learned that shoe shopping is one situation in which it is totally worth it to buy exactly the size and style that fits you and that you like. A good deal on ill-fitting footwear is no bargain.

What do you think? Have you tried Corso Como? What are the brands you like for polished looking shoes that don't hurt your feet?