The Best Work Shoes – Flats Category

The best work shoe is a topic often discussed with reverence among circles of professional women. All of my friends are on an almost messianic quest to find the work shoe that is comfortable yet stylish, affordable yet durable.

Though these choices are hotly contested, the following are the top three contenders for Best Work Shoe in the World in the Flats category:

1. French Soles, Helium Flat. Standing the test of time, French Soles are the original ballerina flat, and have been around in relatively the same form since 1978. Extremely comfortable, with a cushioned sole, the sides come up higher than your normal flat. This may provide additional support, or prove irritating to the ankle bone, depending on the shape of your foot. These shoes come in a virtually unlimited array of styles and colors, but we love the Helium model, with its Chanel look-alike quilting and adorable bow. This model comes in black, bronze, silver, gold, and brown, and is available in leather, suede and patent. Prices start from $225.

2. Tory Burch Reva Ballet Slipper. This past year, Tory Burch shoes took New York by storm, and morning rush hour on Wall Street now looks like a stampede of Revas if you look down. My personal favorite by a long shot, this super stylish shoe comes in a variety of colors (black, gold, silver, navy, green, brown, rust, black and white, black patent). The large signature Tory Burch medallion on the front of the shoe comes in silver, gold and a monochromatic color. The elasticized back in perfect for keeping the shoe comfortably in place all day. Made from the highest quality materials, your editor has personally attempted to stomp a pair of these flats into the ground and they have held up under pressure. Prices start at $195.
3. Taryn Rose Bindi Ballerina Flat. Created by a female orthopedic surgeon credited as a pioneer in recognizing the huge market for comfortable, stylish shoes, Taryn Rose shoes have been beloved by career women since their debut at Neiman Marcus in 2001. The Bindi model comes in quilted soft Nappa leather in red or black, in several patterns. A range of different ballet flats and low heels are available from the same designer. While ranking slightly lower on the style scale than the Tory Burch flats, these shoes are equally comfortable and indestructible, and probably better for your feet. Priced at $425.

Next, the Glass Hammer reviewers move on to the advanced topic of Best Work Shoe in the World in the High Heel Pump category. Stay tuned.