The best work shoes to see you through 9-5 and beyond (2024)

We think Prada loafers are appropriate in any and every situation, but they're especially great for the office. The patent leather and block heel on this pair taps into the Italian house's demure Sixties side (OG fans will know this is one of the brand's oldest signatures), but the plaque logo keeps things feeling fresh.

The ideal desk-to-dinner shoe can take you anywhere from casual drinks to corporate events. Made from supple leather, Gucci's signature loafers have a comfortable flat sole and are finished with the brand's iconic gold horsebit for a hint of glamour. Collapse the back to create a more relaxed-looking mule as you head out of the office.

Sometimes, though, what you need is a striking shoe to take you from work onto functions and parties. Boden's patent style feels so retro but timeless with its flared heel and squared toe. We'll be wearing ours with A-line minis and 60-deniers this autumn.

The menswear-inspired penny loafer, loved by the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Katharine Hepburn, is always a good workwear wardrobe addition. Arket has given this classic shoe a modern makeover with the addition of a chunky sole. Wear yours with cropped trousers to work and a pleated mini on the weekend.

If you’ve stuck religiously to trainers for the past few years, you’re no doubt pleased that ballet flats are back. Mansur’s Gavriel’s Dream design is not dissimilar to the styles Kate Moss and Sienna Miller rocked in the Noughties, but goes from boho-chic to workwear when teamed with tailoring and shirt dresses.

Whistles' is embracing the Noughties renaissance with the buckle detail and square toe on these mules. Wear yours with tailored work trousers and suiting.

Paris Texas is proving that statement boots really can be office appropriate. Just team this patent croc-effect pair with longer hemlines – think knitted dresses and asymmetric midi skirts – to keep your workwear looking elegant.

If you want the elegance of heels without the discomfort, block designs are the way to go. Berlin-based Aeyde's mid-height style has a contrast patent toe and elasticated slingback straps, which means it'll go with everything from pencil skirts to cigarette pants.

Despite increasingly casual dress codes, pumps will never look out of place in the office. The high-shine leather and logo plaque on Prada’s architectural heels makes them easier to style outside of work – just add baggy denim or cargo trousers.

Ideal for the office, Brogues or Oxford shoes can tone down formal tailoring and even the most feminine of dresses – and they're super comfortable too. Cos has brought a modern twist to the traditional style with a unique square-toe and sleek lace fastenings.