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Original poster

Help me find COMFORTABLE non-frumpy shoes that go with dresses

195 replies

Salisburyspire · 16/03/2022 11:33

I am about to start a new role - semi-corporate but also arms-length public sector. I will be working with a chief exec as well as creative types.
I am pretty huge so my staple wardrobe is Boden dresses (some wrap, but some structured A-line ones). I had a social lunch yesterday and trialled one of my dresses with my usual pair of Clark's boots (not much of a heel, usually comfortable). Dear reader, I was in agony by the time I got home. I am so used to wearing trainers. I cannot wear heels due to age and weight. Also I have huge legs so ankle boots outside of the winter season when I can make my legs blend in with dark tights that match the boots are going to be problematic. What flat (but padded sole) shoes can you help me find? Trainers I fear will be too casual. Are there are other shoes that go with dresses that are not boots or heels? I quite like platform type leather sneakers in black leather with a white sole but are these too casual? My usual staple is black but will consider a navy pair to go with blue dresses too...

  • * [Thread title edited by MNHQ] **
OP posts:
Thread gallery
7
TollgateDebs · 16/03/2022 17:11

@thisplaceisweird

Gabor is ultimate granny, opposite of what OP wants.
Not all Gabor is granny (or I really would not be giving them wardrobe room) and like all brands, they have their hits and misses.
Thoosa · 16/03/2022 17:23

Why is everyone blithely using “granny” as though it’s an acceptable insult?

SirChenjins · 16/03/2022 17:27

@Thoosa

Why is everyone blithely using “granny” as though it’s an acceptable insult?
Hear hear. It’s bloody tiresome - the casual ageism on here never ceases to amaze me.
2022HereWeCome · 16/03/2022 17:55

OP I have bad feet and wear a selection of fly mes calf length boots, ecco high tops (plain black leather), DM boots and occasionally trainers

Mediocrates · 16/03/2022 18:02

I wear Dr Martens (various styles of shoes and boots) or smart trainers to work with dresses. Occasionally I'll wear a pointed toe flat (ASOS did a range of velvet ones with bows, and I have them in every colour 🤣)

ArabeI · 16/03/2022 18:05

I think, having looked, that Hotter is a bit like Gabor in terms of style and the comfort factor? I've never bought either, so unsure, but I'm afraid I don't like those slight-platform loafers, OP.

I have some of the chunky M & S loafers and only wear them with dresses/skirts, but my most comfortable loafers are from Air and Grace, so I'd recommend those.

ArabeI · 16/03/2022 18:07

Agree with Thoosa and SirChenjin about the term 'granny' I'm afraid. I'm sure nothing was meant by it, but all the same...

hupfpferd · 16/03/2022 18:08

I have some Hotter Shipley loafers and they are pretty comfy and look good enough with dresses and skirts.

www.hotter.com/gb/en/womens/shipley-shoes

ArabeI · 16/03/2022 18:11

Softinos is another 'comfort' brand, I think those are possibly similar (or connected to?) Fly. I've only tried the ballet flats, if those wouldn't be too casual.

catfunk · 16/03/2022 18:34

Op I can't tolerate heels but like to look fairly 'trendy' for work I wear plain white Stan smiths with a dress and blazer, clarks wide fit soft wear brogues, or air and grace have various comfy non/ frumpy shoes

RivaLa · 16/03/2022 19:11

Great thread, I love my block heeled ankle boots with a dress in the winter.
I wish for a summer boot....

Mistressiggi · 16/03/2022 19:33

I have the leather Fitflop rally trainers (in two colours!) mentioned on here - I saw them recommended on another thread on here. I really like them

wejammin · 16/03/2022 21:48

I wear brogues to work with dresses (I'm a lawyer), I'm currently on a tight budget but I covet Embassy embassylondon.co.uk/collections/brogues/womens?page=1

GettingStuffed · 16/03/2022 22:48

I have these in a Mary Jane get loads of compliments on the gorgeous cool metallic www.pavers.co.uk/products/stretch-fit-trainers-brk35051-321-598

TollgateDebs · 17/03/2022 09:27

@Thoosa

Why is everyone blithely using “granny” as though it’s an acceptable insult?
Apologies, I just responded to the 'granny' style implication and have slapped my 60 year old self for allowing the term to be used in a inappropriate way.
MrsPelligrinoPetrichor · 17/03/2022 09:33

@Thoosa

Why is everyone blithely using “granny” as though it’s an acceptable insult?
I'm glad you said it!

All the grannies I know wouldn't wear the shoes mentioned on this thread!

What's wrong with 'stylish but comfortable shoes?'

Anyway,that aside, I'm following as I'm always in the market for comfy shoes.

TheAbbotOfUnreason · 17/03/2022 09:57

I’ve always liked the New Balance ranges.

Our marketing director seems to wear spangly trainers with everything (deals with a wide range of clients).

TypicaIMe · 17/03/2022 10:16

FitFlop Allegra pumps.

I have advanced RA in my feet and they're godsends. Honestly not even a bit granny, and go with anything.

Floisme · 17/03/2022 11:52

Does it ever occur to you that, when you use 'granny' or 'old lady' in such a needlessly derogatory way, there might be posters, many of them stylish and with knowledge of the issue concerned, who will conclude that their input is not welcome?

Original poster
Salisburyspire · 17/03/2022 11:59

Good point re the 'granny' term. I do not mean 'grandmother' as in, anyone who has had offspring who have given birth. I think we know what I mean style-wise. I am sure many people in this camp are far more fashion-forward than me, but I was meaning shoes that are not the typical 'comfortable' beige slippers that I could normally be tempted to go for because I go for comfort over style every time!

OP posts:
Original poster
Salisburyspire · 17/03/2022 12:25

Thank you for all the suggestions! I am working my way through them now. Had not heard of softinos or Lizni and had not thought of Camper either!

Will keep you updated. I am terrible for inertia and being overwhelmed by choice!

OP posts:
SarahBellam · 17/03/2022 12:32

These. I’m on my second pair. My first pair finally gave up after 3 years of constant wear. Very smart, versatile, and cool. They take a bit of breaking in but then they feel like slippers.

www.drmartens.com/uk/en_gb/p/26957001

They look great with dresses and with trousers. If I was only allowed one set of footwear ever, it would be these.

evilharpy · 17/03/2022 13:19

@Floisme

Does it ever occur to you that, when you use 'granny' or 'old lady' in such a needlessly derogatory way, there might be posters, many of them stylish and with knowledge of the issue concerned, who will conclude that their input is not welcome?
What would be a more appropriate descriptor for that type of shoe? There's a big difference between "not fashion forward" and what people have described as "granny". It's quite a particular look.

"Granny" isn't a term I use myself but I can't think of a more acceptable equivalent.