Shoes for work outfits

[holidayfever2024]

I have a flurry of face to face meetings coming up , normally work full time from home.
I need a bit of a capsule wardrobe to take the palaver out of deciding what to wear each time as I have been guilty of buying a new outfit just for a meeting ( I love clothes and miss dressing more smartly !)
I don’t need to be overly formal and have quite a few dresses etc that will work ok, but I am really stuck on shoes and maybe what to wear if I need a layer on top.
The main challenge is shoes, I have a couple of really nice black dresses that I feel are appropriate until I get to my feet. If I dont want to wear trainers or sandals what do I need to go for ? Heavy shoes like loafers will make my legs look pale and me look dumpy. Heels , sling backs etc just aren’t appropriate for hoofing it to and across London and back.
Ballet flats aren’t an option I wore them last time around and now feel they throw my pear shape out of balance.
Anyone got any genius ideas for a versatile, comfortable, elegant feet solution?
I like the Mary Jane’s but not sure they are really me.
Also like fisherman’s sandals but they are very marmite and may look ugly .
I am early 50s and some styles that look cool on a younger person just don’t do me any favours ..
i am properly stuck!

TIA

I'd go for a chunky sandal They are easy to walk in and give you some height. I get Clarkes ones as a rule because I need an E fitting. and a half size. I'm 63 and have to look smart for work meetings when I have them.

Sandals for Women – Flat, Heels, Strappy & Black Ladies Sandals | Clarks UK

Thanks @GettingbysomehowClarks is a good shout and there are plenty of sandals I like but what I struggle with is when you plan for sandals but arrive in a downpour and everyone else is more local it can make you feel out of place ! Maybe I am overthinking but trousers and trainers for a while felt quite stylish and safe and now I am struggling to find that sort of simplicity..

What about an espadrille with a wedge heel?Summery but easy to walk around in.

@Longhotsummers thanks for the reply , I think I am being really fussy - I don’t think espadrilles will be smart / versatile enough. The challenge is maybe I want a single purchase to solve the issue but maybe that’s just unrealistic.
I am veering towards a low heeled court shoe but it needs to be modern and not look too dull..

What about a pointed flat - it balances out my shape more than a rounded ballet shoe - I love these https://www.katespade.co.uk/products/hallie-smooth-leather-flat/KK679-001.html?src=outlet_uk&src=outlet_uk&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19889604849&gclid=Cj0KCQjwxo_CBhDbARIsADWpDH5pCxkqdRE2ExnPOjPpc2vmPkYl0J43CP7T0cmePMQXLug4QzvRPtwaAkw5EALw_wcB

I’m similar in age and I have loafers, timberland sandals, doc martens, trainers, knee high boots, converse and Clarks ballet flats and wear them as appropriate. All fine for walking in

Depends on your budget (and taste) but have a look at Tracey Neuls. She makes wonderful shoes that are comfy and amazing quality but they have ‘an edge’. I have lots of her shoes that I’ve slowly collected over the past decade that I wear for work and always get lots of compliments (even from male colleagues who usually seem oblivious).

I agree with pointy flats - I've some slingbacks with a strap across, or a block heel court? I don't do heels.

Usually I go into the office three days a week and wear comfy shoes there and home and have my smarter ones under my desk.

Thanks for this recommendation I hadn’t heard of this brand and there are definitely some great shoes there! Probably a little over budget but I will keep an eye out.

Thanks for this perhaps you have just given me perspective that I may need more shoes !
I have boots and trainers but struggle a lot more in summer.
i want to be able to not wear tights but then the shoes need to be as comfortable as trainers so i can get through all day meetings.

I love the pointy flats idea and really like the Kate spade ones - I am not sure I want black this time tho as will make my legs look short and pale..

I have found quite a few pointy flats I like !