Style
Smart Steps: 15 Versatile Shoes For Work, Play and Travel
From office meetings to airport sprints and sunset strolls, these chic, comfy and even carry-on-friendly shoes can do it all without ever punishing your feet
From long commutes to last-minute dinners, city tours and unexpected weather – and a few thousand steps in between – your shoes need to cover a lot of ground. But contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to own dozens of pairs to fit every possible environment, season and occasion. Instead, you just need a well-curated closet with a handful of smart, stylish and functional shoes that can carry you from Monday morning meetings to Friday night drinks and the occasional weekend flight – no outfit compromises necessary in between.
But first, a few notes: when selecting shoes that can adapt to life’s many settings, there’s more to consider than aesthetics. For all-day comfort, prioritise arch support, cushioned soles and breathable materials. What’s more, waterproof or water-resistant and non-porous fabrics will lock liquid out and keep your feet dry, all while extending shoe life. Another thing to consider is colour and style. Neutrals like black, brown and taupe offer more versatility and blend in seamlessly everywhere. Clean lines, minimal branding and classic shapes make them more wearable for both casual and formal ensembles.
The Waterproof Pair
If your idea of adventure involves both fresh air and good style, then waterproof shoes are non-negotiable. Whether you’re trekking misty mountain trails, navigating cobblestone streets or chasing waterfalls in tropical heat, your footwear should be able to work hard as you are – while looking as good.
Vessi Stormburst Low Top unisex sneakers are 100% waterproof, designed with a special knit that keeps water out while letting sweat and heat escape. Plus, they’ve got a rugged rubber outsole for extra grip, as well as rebound cushioning built for long hours of comfort.
Seeking both a city- and beach-ready look? These Freedom Moses viral slides (available in every imaginable colour) feature a minimalist, cool-girl design that can pose as a runway look, with the added bonus of being 100% waterproof, ultra-lightweight, anti-slip, adjustable and sustainably made.
For those whose wardrobe must weather the elements and morning meetings, these Salomon ACS Pro Gore-Tex sport shoes make for the perfect hybrid with their waterproof membrane, reinforced structure and enough polish to sneak into an everyday wardrobe.
The Hybrid Loafer
A classic that not only never goes out of fashion but rather keeps expanding its style possibilities, the loafer is equally at home in boardrooms, at brunch spots and on breezy weekend getaways. From harp tailoring to slouchy jeans, linen sets, flirty dresses and even summer shorts, loafers handle it all with effortless charm.
For a pair that hits the sweet spot between dress-code–friendly and walk-all-day comfortable, Vionic’s Uptown Loafer has become a favourite among the jet-set crowd thanks to its extra stability, arch support, cushioning and flexibility.
Those looking for something more airy and breathable for both daytime sightseeing and dinner plans, Riviera’s Classic Canvas & Mesh loafers are Nantucket summer-inspired slip-ons that go with literally anything.
If you’re in your ‘cool French girl’ era, don’t let the leather finish and goldware of Sam Edelman’s Loraine Bit Loafers fool you – their extra-cushioned insoles and reinforced flexibility make them ideal for all-day, everywhere wear.
The Elevated Sneaker
The new generation of work-appropriate kicks proves you don’t have to trade comfort for a polished look. Sleek silhouettes, muted colourways and elevated materials like leather and suede play nice with blazers, button-ups and even silky dresses and skirts. Combine smart styles with tailored trousers, or offset a floaty midi dress with a minimalist white pair for that effortless high-low mix. If you’re going for something more dressed-up, stick to monochrome tones and tonal laces to achieve an overall refined effect.
A cult favourite, the Adidas Gazelle provides solid arch support, while the suede upper and retro shape makes it appear dressier than the average pair, while Everlane’s Court Sneaker comes in soft leather for more durability and comfort, but also more versatility and wearability.
Another go-everywhere hero, the naturally sourced Cariuma All Black Pebbled Leather sneaker is a seasonless option designed with ultimate comfort in mind, but still approved as a street-style must. For a pop of shimmer and spark, Dolce Vita’s Notice Sneaker in silver gives equal parts glamorous and grounded.
The Foldable Flat
Let’s face it: no good holiday memory ever began with blisters and sore feet. When you’re hopping from airport gates to cobblestone streets, aching arches and pinched toes can be a major buzzkill. So, before packing your trendiest shoes in the name of fashion, think comfort first. From barely-there ballet flats that fold into your carry-on, to soft, unstructured Mary Janes that mould to your feet (and not the other way around), today’s must-have flats are designed with all-day wear – and minimal packing space – in mind. They just happen to be designer-approved, too.
This summer’s footwear obsession, the “sneakerina”, has become highly popular as a genius hybrid between a feminine ballet flat and a flexible sneaker. Vivaia’s Square-Toe is a perfect example, and it gives the piggies some breathing room to boot.
For a first-class upgrade without the extra baggage, the completely foldable M. Gemi’s The Una is made from buttery-soft, lightweight leather and extra-gentle suede for a slipper-like experience with high-fashion vibes. Another pair that requires no uncomfortable wear-in, Rothy’s The Point II comes with the brand’s cloud-like insole and expanding elastic, along with a pointed toe that promises no uncomfortable scrunching – made for long days and longer walks.
The Right Accessories
Found a pair you love that can’t quite keep up with every rain puddle or powerwalk? With a bit of extra help, they might endure. For example, rubber overshoes will shield your leather from surprise showers while adding extra grip on slippery surfaces. If you need to turn a pair of beloved yet unsupportive shoes into something you can actually walk in, these gel insoles work like memory foam for your feet. Want to simply extend the life of your shoes and maintain all-day wearability? Basic shoe care supplies will do the job. From leather balms that restore shine and glow, to waterproofing sprays and suede protectors to ward off rain and stains, specialised care kits can help keep your footwear looking fresh for years to come.
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