Orthopedic shoes that can look pretty with dresses

[Calyco]

I've recently been diagnosed with early onset arthritis in my ankles. I've been in a lot of pain while walking for a while now and it seems like it is time to change my shoes. The problem is I like to wear dresses almost exclusively, so I mostly have been wearing ballet flats up until now. I hate trainers, but bought a pair because I really had to. They look awful with my clothes. I know they are a trend with dresses, but it doesn't really work on me. I am short (4 ft 11 inches), a bit overweight and pear shaped. It doesn't work. Does anyone know of a good brand for comfortable orthopedic ballet flats. I am also vegetarian and looking for something that doesn't hurt animals, the planet or people. It's a tall order. I know.

I can't recommend a brand, sorry. I do wonder if ballet pumps are the best for you though? I saw a documentary which showed that the toes get crunched up in a vain attempt to hold the actual shoe on the foot. Maybe something with a strap over the top instead? What about a maxi dress/skirt which covers the feet more? Have you seen a podiatrist for recommendations?

There was a brand I used to buy years ago called something like Kelso. The heel was slightly lower than the toe and more like a natural stance as if you had no shoes on. They had a vegan range come in just before they shut! Maybe someone can advise what brand they were or other suggestions.

Vionic-life changing

I agree with previous poster that ballet flats are a bad idea. If you really want to wear them you could try Vionic, Fitflop and Gabor for more supportive flats (sorry, not sure about vegan options).
I have ankle osteoarthritis and I find boots a good option. Obviously not in high summer but ankle boots would work for most of the year in the UK. I have some Vionic ones as well as some old Clarks ones I love which look great with dresses.

The brands mentioned above are good. Do also go to an orthopaedic store to get properly measured and fitted.

Thank you everyone for the suggestions. I will definitely have to check out those brands and get some orthotics. Thank you!

My physiotherapist and foot surgeon both got very cross when they saw me wearing Vionics so I’ve ditched mine now.

How about Birkenstocks? They're not the world's daintiest shoes, but they are supremely comfortable (once you've got used to them) and supportive. When I'm not wearing my prescription orthotics, I wear Birkenstocks. Before my feet got so bad that I needed customised orthotics, I often used a Birkenstock insert in my shoes.

@YumYummy Can I ask why?

Agree with these suggestions.

Fitflops, Vionics and Birkenstocks have all been good for me, but that is for high arches rather than ankle problems.

@YumYummy Can I ask why?
They both said not good support, bad soles and you can’t go wrong with a good pair of well fitting trainers.

I have foot problems and prescription orthotics, and really the only footwear that is 100% comfortable, and doesnt make my foot problem worse is trainers. In fact sports/runner style trainer are the best, which isnt helpful when you need to be smart for work.

There are a lot of lace up ankle boots around at the moment, and I know that they arent going to work for summer, but they can work with thick tights and dresses, the laces make them secure on your feet, and they are supportive. A big change from ballet flats I know.

My biggest problem is that I often dont know how comfortable a pair of shoes or boots are going to be until I have walked in them for a few hours, so its easy to waste money. I have also found that stupidly expensive doesnt always mean more comfortable.

@YumYummy That's really good to know, thank you!

My Orthotic person didn't like shoes with no support either. Not sketchers!

Lace up is good. I use hotter as they have removable insoles to put my insole in. I go for the "least worst" option. Often a navy trainer.

My Orthotic person didn't like shoes with no support either. Not sketchers!
Mine said the same about Sketchers.

A lot of supposed arch support I find isn't solid enough, it's too soft too be helpful and I find this is my problem with Skechers. I do wear Skechers but I add my orthotic insoles. I wear Strive sandals which I find give me good support, or Talarmade orthotic insoles I got from the hospital. But this summer I bought some Talarmade adhesive arch pads on Amazon which I stuck in my walking sandals, and they made a fantastic difference.
I agree ballet flats aren't the best style, but you don't need to wear trainers either if you get the correct insole