Sure, we all know what basics professional women are supposed to have in their closets, but if you're buying one for the first time or replacing one you've worn into the ground, it can be a pain to find exactly the right incarnation in stores. In “The Hunt,” we search the stores for a basic item that every woman should have.

Almost since this blog was born, we've done roundups of nude-for-you heels — beige heels, brown heels, pink heels and more. But I don't think we've ever done a roundup of nude flats — so I thought we'd do one today.

Ladies, do you wear nude-for-you flats as often as you wear nude-for-you heels? Which outfits are your favorite to pair with nude-for-you flats? Any favorite brands of flats, either for comfort or the perfect match to your skin?

{related: cute flats for the office}

Our General Favorite Flats for Work

First up, some of our “Workwear Hall of Fame” styles — these are the best sellers and classics that have been around for years:

Some of our favorite comfortable flats for work as of 2024 include M.M.LaFleur, AGL, and French Sole. On the more affordable side, check out Rothy's, Sam Edelman, and Rockport. We've also rounded up the best loafers for work, and our favorite sneakers for work outfits!

Our Latest Favorite Nude Flats For All Skin Tones

Looking for comfortable flats with a variety of skin-tone options? As of 2024, take a look at Rothy's, Ferragamo, M.M.LaFleur, and AGL; brands like Naturalizer and Rebecca Allen specialize in having many skin tone options.

Why You Might Want to Wear Nude Flats to Work

The theory is thus: the closer to your exact skin tone you can get with any shoe, the more elongating and flattering a look it can be with sheer hose or bare legs.

(Here’s our last guide on when and how to wear pantyhose if you need a refresher!)

In addition to being a leg-lengthening look, they're a great neutral and can pair with pretty much any outfit because, in theory, you are matching your skin, not anything you're wearing.

One important note, though: you can buy a “nude” flat that isn't YOUR nude — it's totally fine. Wear what you want!

In fact, as we noted in our post on the best nude heels for every skin tone, there are a few rules that you may want to be wary of:

• Know your office — we've focused our roundup on closed-toe shoes, as that's what appropriate at most offices, but some may allow sandals. Trust your own comfort level with shoes that show more skin, such as d'Orsay flats that show your instep, or shoes that bare toe cleavage. (Maybe that's a topic for another post — I'm curious if anyone is still scandalized by toe cleavage.)
• Similarly, know your office with regard to whether bare legs are appropriate — depending on how conservative your office is, I might assume that pantyhose is still appropriate for “big meetings” or, say, court appearances, and you may want to keep a pair in your desk just in case. (In our last roundup of pantyhose for work, Oroblu, Wolford, and DKNY were among our favorites.)

What to Look For in Nude Flats If You Don't Want to Look Barefoot

A number of readers have noted a big pitfall with nude flats, which is that — as you're walking down the hallway — you may look as if you're barefoot. If this impression would bother you, keep an eye out for nude flats that have darker details.

For example, animal prints often have different colors of beige and brown that can match a variety of different skin tones and give a leg-lengthening look — but because there are always contrasting colors with your skintone, it won't look as if you're barefoot.

Another way to do this is to look for nude flats with a darker captoe, such as the Rothy's pictured below.

How to Wear Nude Flats with Work Outfits

I think these are a particularly great look to pair with office skirts and work dresses — your legs will look a mile long, and the neutral color won't detract from the rest of your outfit. (They're also great shoes to keep at your office because they go with everything!)

A Closer Look at Some Great Nude Flats for Work

Rothy's

Rothy's have been a reader favorite for a loooong time, and they often have a bunch of “nude-for-me” colors in various shades of ivory, beige, tan, and more. (They often have an animal print, too, which can be a fun way to wear nude(ish) heels.)

As of September 2023, they offer “camel captoe” (pictured), a darker “portobello,” a lighter “ecru,” and a very light beige “moonlight tweed;” the shoes are available in sizes 5-13.

The brand also offers square toe flats, round toe flats, three kinds of loafers, and boots.

MM.LaFleur

These M.M.LaFleur flats have been another reader favorite for a while, although at a higher price point ($245). The shoe has come in a variety of colors over the years, but always in several neutral shades.

Rebecca Allen

There are a number of brands that specialize in making nude-for-you heels — I was poking through Nordstrom's Black-Owned Business section recently and was delighted to find just such a brand: Rebecca Allen.

This pointy-toed, patent flat looks great for everyday wear. For some reason, I think it would be a particularly great flat to wear with a dress, since it's got such a sleek look.

The brand offers four colors of “nude” in sizes 6–11 for $150. If this flat isn't your jam, the brand also makes sandals and heels in the same color spectrum.

Sarah Flint

These pale pink flats are a bit on the lighter side, but I can't get over how cute they are — I love the bow on the toe.

The flats are available in three colors for $495, available in US sizes 4-13.

The post The Hunt: Nude Flats for All Skin Tones appeared first on Corporette.com.

While all of us are irritated by sensory distractions at the office, like burned-popcorn smell or super-loud typing, the workplace can make some people go into sensory overload — so today we're talking about how to deal with sensory issues at work. While it's a happy accident that we're sharing this post during Disability Pride Month (we're admittedly not quite that organized), it's a great reminder to be aware of the invisible disabilities that affect millions of people.

Some of the advice and products we're featuring today — especially the tips on “sensory-supportive” work environments and employer accommodations — can help people with ADHD, autism, sensory processing disorder, migraine, misophonia, and even folks in recovery from concussion or TBI. However, this info can benefit people without a formal diagnosis or condition, too.

While neurodivergence is represented on Team Corporette (and among a couple of our family members), we also reached out to an expert. Dr. Nicole Villegas, OTD, OTR/L, founder of The Institute for Sensory Conscious Living in Portland, OR, answered our questions via email. Her input can help both readers with sensory issues and managers trying to accommodate their employees. (This interview has been edited for length and clarity.)

What to Know About Sensory Issues at Work

Corporette: Do you have products to recommend that can make an office more sensory-friendly?

Dr. Villegas: Although I don't currently endorse specific products, here's some guidance:

Sensory-supportive environments aren't “one size fits all,” because our personal experience shapes how we engage in the space. Keep adjustability and adaptation in mind if you're looking for products to make the office more sensory-supportive. Take vision and lighting needs, for example. The office may already have adjustable lighting features like blinds on the windows, and adding smart light bulbs to workspace lamps can make the lighting even more adaptable to individual needs.

Sometimes creating a sensory-supportive environment means removing input rather than adding to it. This can look like turning the volume down on office-wide music, or decreasing visual clutter in shared workspaces.

Employers I've worked with have been surprised to learn how much their clothing, hair, or tech-use policies prevent their employees from creating a more sensory-supportive work environment. These policies may be implicit or explicitly enforced. Consider whether rules about wearing hats, sunglasses, earplugs, and “professional” attire or hairstyles impact you or your team.

{related: executive functioning tips and tricks}

Can You Get Your Employer to Pay for Sensory-Friendly Accommodations?

Corporette: Under what conditions can someone get their employer to pay for items like these — and to make other sensory accommodations? Do you have to be diagnosed as having a disability?

Whether modifications are provided by employers through reasonable accommodations per the ADA or individual requests without a documented disability, the goal is to help overcome barriers and improve access in the workplace. This shared goal can help ground communication between the employer and the employee.

[This communication] can include a shared goal to improve your work experience and performance, an openness to consider options to address the barriers, and a willingness to problem-solve over time.

“Reasonable accommodations” are covered under the [ADA] and require a documented disability. While some of my clients successfully go through the process of requesting reasonable accommodations through ADA provisions without employer pushback, others have distressing experiences that exacerbate [their] challenges … . In my experience, employees with barriers that are not visible … are more likely to experience slower resolution to their requests.

{related: should you tell your colleagues that you're autistic?}

Corporette: What strategies do you suggest regarding requesting accommodations — for example, getting your employer to approve a hybrid or WFH arrangement for sensory-related reasons if employees are required to be at the office every day?

This is where communication and self-advocacy come in.

1. When approaching your employer, highlight your shared goals and speak to how your hybrid schedule or working from home will help you to meet those goals.

2. Acknowledge the resources that each of you have (time, funding, expertise, contributions).

3. Map out a plan that meets your needs, and include check-ins over time.

4. An occupational therapist, a coach, or legal representative who specializes in workplace accommodations or self-advocacy may be helpful resources for this process.

{related: medications and your job: business etiquette tips for going off your meds}

Some of the Best Products to Deal with Sensory Issues at Work

Our recommendations come from a few sources: The experiences of a family member who is autistic, the experiences of an autistic friend of mine, and a Facebook group for neurodivergent alums of my alma mater.

These items can help not only in an office environment (especially in an open-plan workplace!), but also in a home office, too. Please share your own recs in the comments!

Flare Calmer Earplugs

Flare's Calmer “earplug alternatives“ are recommended by many folks who are especially sensitive to certain sounds.

Made from hollow silicone for comfort (no latex, in case you're allergic), Calmer doesn't block sound but instead reduces trigger noises, e.g., traffic sounds, electronic buzzing, the sounds of people eating/chewing, commuting noises) while keeping the general environmental sounding “natural.” Flare explains, “Calmer reduces resonance (distortion) by using a tiny waveguide to reflect sound into our ear which bypasses the effect of the Concha.”

One member of the Facebook group I mentioned above said they're “total meltdown prevention” and noted, “My life is better when I have less to process, and I can certainly do better work that way!”

These earplugs are available at Amazon; if you buy them directly from Flare (£19.95), you get a 100-day return policy (and free shipping as well). The options available (in addition to Mini) are Soft, Secure, Kids, and Pro. A mesh carrying pouch is included.

Loop Engage Plus Earplugs

Loop has a thorough quiz on their website that helps you pick the right earplugs for you. Pictured is Loop Engage Plus, which reduces and filters noise up to 16 dB and “takes the edge off” sounds. The included Loop Mute accessory provides an extra 5 dB of noise reduction, and sizing is versatile, because each pair includes four interchangeable ear tip sizes.

Regarding sensory issues, the company notes, “From helping [people] tune out triggering sounds in social settings without feeling so distant to helping them focus at work, Loop earplugs help people with ADHD, autism, misophonia and more…”

Reviewers have shared comments like “As someone who is autistic and neurodivergent it makes a huge difference to be able to cut down the amount of stimuli I take in,” and “I'm Autistic and these are life changing for my sensory issues.

Loop earplugs are available at Amazon, including the Engage Plus; this model is sold at Loop Earplugs for $44.95 with 100-day free returns.

Note: With earbuds, it largely depends on the individual, and it may take some trial and error. If Calmer doesn't work for you, for example, try Loop, dBud, noise-canceling headphones, etc. — or a pricier but effective alternative, AirPods. (I don't have a particular sensitivity to sound, but I'm so impressed by their noise-canceling mode.)

Lepro Desk Lamp

If your office has harsh fluorescent lights — and you can't escape them by moving to a different office or cubicle — a desk lamp can provide more gentle lighting. Even adding a desk lamp to existing light sources can help by creating layered lighting.

Look for a lamp that offers adjustable brightness levels and different color temperatures, and play around with the settings to find the combo you like. This one from Lepro, pictured, has five dimmer levels and three color modes (and is eligible for free returns).

On the higher end (for your home office), many autistic folks (like this person) recommend Philips Hue smart lighting, which has three light ranges: soft white light, warm-to-cool white light, and white and colored light. Specific technical details, as textbook authors say, are “beyond the scope of this book,” er, blog. Check philips-hue.com for more info.)

Two additional strategies (1) Some people bothered by fluorescent lights cover them with fabric or with thin covers like these filters from Octo Lights. (Of course, you'll have to check if your employer allows this.) (2) FL-14 tinted eyeglasses (like these at Amazon) were developed to ease people's eye discomfort from fluorescent light, and often help people who are especially sensitive to light for various reasons, including migraine. (If you wear prescription glasses, ask your ophthalmologist about your options here.)

Some neurodivergent people have even noted that blue light glasses really help them with light sensitivities!

Venty Wireless Desk Fan

If you don't have the common summertime dilemma regarding your office feeling like the inside of a refrigerator, a fan can make a big difference in your comfort — and in turn, your concentration. In some of my office jobs, I ran my desk fan pretty frequently. I bought a basic model (this one, which is still going strong a decade later), while today, you can get inexpensive desk fans (like this one) that charge via USB.

If a small fan like that won't cut it (the top speed on my old one is kinda sad), I recommend the fan pictured above, which my son uses at home. Going far beyond a basic desk fan, this foldable, wireless model has a battery that lasts up to two days (and charges via USB), plus a little remote. It has four speeds (plus lights, which you can turn off) and has a maximum height of three feet. You can even charge your devices with it. At just over 2.5 pounds, it's easily portable, and it even has a travel case. Granted, it's four to five times the price of basic desk fans, but if a basic option won't cut it, here's your fan!

Note: If you want a fan to do double duty — cooling and providing white noise — it's probably better to get a cheap one that doesn't boast that it's silent.

Levoit Air Purifier

You might not think of an air purifier as something that can contribute to a sensory-supportive office environment, but certain models can not only reduce distracting odors but also generate white noise. (Note that some models promise almost zero noise.)

If you want your air purifier to go beyond improving general air quality and also tackle office odors, get one with a carbon air filter, because HEPA filters alone aren't effective at tackling smells. A pricier option is a Molekule air purifier, which uses technology called PECO (photo electrochemical oxidation) to fight odors. Unfortunately, the brand's two models are $359.99 (mini) and, ahem, $1,014.99 (full size). (Remember, no matter what product you buy, you'll have to regularly pay for replacement filters.)

A more affordable option is the pictured air purifier from Levoit. It's designed for homes with pets, but for a pet-free office, I'd certainly trust something designed for pesky pet odors. (Plus, it's earned a 4.7 out of 5.0 stars at Amazon from 99,000+ ratings!) This model has an activated carbon filter and can handle about 200 sq. ft of space — so it should be adequate for a typical office.

Fidget Objects and Toys

You have a lot of options in this category — perfect for fidgeting during video calls and so on. Proprioceptive input can really help.

Companies like Rubbabu make textured ball toys for sensory input. Rubbabu's are made (through ethical production) from 97% rubber foam, are free from fillers and chemicals, and are anti-microbial, hypoallergenic, and mildew-resistant. While they're marketed to kids, they're helpful for anyone (although admittedly, they're pricey).

The pictured assortment is available at Amazon; Rubbabu.com has a bigger assortment of balls (heh).

Other helpful fidgets are fidget cubes (my son likes them), Greek worry beads (komboloi, a classic; available at Amazon, and tons at Etsy), mesh/marble fidgets (I like them), the ubiquitous Pop-Its (satisfying!), polished stones (check your local science museum!), and spinner rings (as in rings to wear).

{related: better ergonomics at the office: what products have you tried and loved?}

More Products to Help with Sensory Overload at Work

I recently talked to the autistic friend I mentioned above, and she sent me a TON of recommendations to share with readers. She added, “Just generally making sure you know what is and is not helpful for you to help narrow the list down is key.” (Before buying an item, or requesting that your employer provide a particular product, see if you can borrow something similar from a friend or relative.) In addition to the products below, she suggested setting your laptop display to “night mode” so the colors are warmer, and if possible, working in a conference room with the lights off.

The products are almost all my friend's specific recs; we've linked to examples for the ones she didn't provide links for.

1. Gaiam acupressure mat: “also comes in a smaller mat/seat cushion, and neck pillow”

2. Octorox spiky massage balls: “good sensory input for your feet”

3. Guohaoi weighted blanket: “I have no idea if this is good or not, but it’s in my wish list.” (We've previously recommended ones from Amazon, Brookstone and Magic Weighted Blanket.)

4. Octorox Spiky Massage Balls: “good sensory input for your feet”

5. EverRest foot rest: “I cant speak to the lumbar support since I don’t have it, but this is the foot rest I use.”

6. Loft ponte pull-on pants: “[This] stretchy material is HEAVENLY.” (Note that these pants are on sale and selling out quickly, but Universal Standard offers pull-on ponte pants in three colors in a wide size range for $98.)

7. Xumbtvs coffee sleeves: “For people who don’t like wet hands but get iced coffees (but also they’re just great for anyone)”

8. ONO fidget roller: “I’ve heard good things about these fidgets.”

9. Compression clothing: “Wear compression clothing UNDER work clothes, like compression shorts under dresses, compression tanks under shirts, etc.” [ex. Athleta shorts, Girlfriend Collective tank].

10. Under-desk bike pedals, ellipticals, or treadmills [ex. Vaunn under-desk pedal]

11. Neck fans/neck heaters: “They look kind of like headphones that someone took off to rest on their neck.” [ex. AMACOOL]

{related: how to manage ADHD in the workplace}

Other Tips for Handling Sensory Issues at Work

1. This Twitter thread from 2022 has a ton of “easy, stand-alone autism hacks” that can help anyone with sensory sensitivities — for work and beyond. One example: Use detergent designed for wool (like this one) to keep your workwear (and WFH wear) feeling soft.

2. Chew gum.

3. Wear sunglasses indoors (or try blue light glasses!)

4. Use a white noise machine, white noise app, or Spotify playlist (or this constant brown noise on Spotify, which I'm using as I write this.

Readers, do you have tips to share for handling sensory issues at work (whether or not you have a related diagnosis)? What products have helped you, and how has your employer accommodated your needs, if at all?

Stock photo via Deposit Photos.

The post How to Deal with Sensory Issues at Work appeared first on Corporette.com.

What do you wear to keep your feet dry during summer showers? Do summer rainboots exist? Reader P wonders.

A shoe question for you — what are the best shoes to wear when commuting in hot summer rain? I usually wear my tall Hunter rainboots fall through spring, but they're way too hot for muggy +80 degree summers. Are plastic flip flops okay? They seem most functional, but I feel so weird wearing them with a suit or work dress. Is there something in between?

I'm curious to hear what the readers say here. As I think I've mentioned before, I hate having wet feet — here in New York you can easily and unexpectedly wade into a puddle (including in a covered place, like the subway) that's half a foot deep, if not more. (And often gross!)

{related: 5 tips to stay cool on your commute on really hot days}

I'm a huge fan of my Hunter rainboots for cooler months (pictured), and honestly I still pull out my rainboots if the weather is at all cool (up to 75 degrees or so, probably), but with kneesocks instead of tights.

{related: what to wear to work in summer}

Summer Rainy Day Outfit

Summer rain showers are different, though — no one wants to wear a pair of knee-high plastic boots when it's 95 degrees. My usual commuting shoe, the flip flop (I hate to admit that!) is also unsuitable for wet weather, in my experience — the footbed of the shoe always seems to get too slippery for me in the rain, and the last thing I want when it's pouring is to go slowly and carefully.

So my usual go-to outfit when I need to look stylish and polished even on my commute is:

• A skirt or dress (so I don't have to worry about wet pantlegs)
• A pair of actual shoes (preferably Mary Jane or ankle strap wedges) that will stay on my feet if I'm hurrying/running, and either be an acceptable fashion choice for the rest of the day or at least fit the “I won't be embarrassed to run into a coworker in the elevator” requirement.
• A small (but strong) umbrella to try to keep my shoes as dry as possible.

{related: the best work dresses}

Strappy Heels for a Rainy Commute in Summer

Some of our latest favorite strappy shoes for work:

As of 2024, these are our latest favorite strappy heels for work (below) — also check the brands J.Crew, Valentino, and Jennifer Chamandi for strappy pumps. If you’re looking for strappy commuting shoes with heels to maintain a hem length, we recommend Dansko or Fly London.

Strappy Flats for A Rainy Day Commute

Stylish strappy flats can be hard to find! As of 2024, these are some of our favorites — also, in general, check J.Crew and Valentino (on the pricier side, obviously). Nordstrom also has a surprisingly large selection!

The last time we discussed this, readers had a few different great ideas for rubber shoes for commuting in the rain, i.e., summer rainboots!

{related: lightweight pants for work}

The Best Options If You Don't Want to Wear Summer Rainboots

Wondering what to wear on your commute if it's raining but summertime? These are our favorite options as of 2024…

Waterproof Shoes for Commuting in Summer Rain

One Trendy Option: Waterproof Sneakers

Sneakers are a great way to stay stylish in the rain, and there are a ton of waterproof sneakers that are perfect for this. (Depending on the level of rain and puddles you expect to encounter, you could also possibly get away with just a waterproofing spray on your regular shoes.)

Readers swear by the comfort of these, and they're great for traction and rain — the company notes that they combine “cozy ZQ Merino wool and a bio-based water repellent shield,” so their “rain-ready sneaker keeps your feet predictably dry in unpredictable weather.”

The pictured sneakers are around $125; you can find them at Allbirds.com; they're also sometimes at Nordstrom.

A lot of other brands have waterproof sneakers, though, as you can see from the broad selection at Nordstrom and Zappos. Three brands that specialize in waterproof sneakers include Vessi, On Sneakers, and Sorel.

{related: summer work clothes: how to look professional when it's hot out}

Another Waterproof Option for Summer Rain: Active Sandals

A number of readers noted that they liked to go for an “active sandal” for summer, such as Teva sandals. As the Zappos description notes, they have a “secure fit, supportive comfort, and reliably grippy outsole” to provide traction. Plus, the vegan-friendly sandals have quick-drying straps.

Teva sandals are $54.95 at Zappos and Amazon. Other reader-favorites for active sandals: Chaco.

Rubber Shoes for Commuting in the Rain

One Option: Crocs Sandals or Jelly Sandals

Jelly sandals come and go in fashion, but Crocs almost always has a sandal with a heel on it (so it won't fly off your feet like flip flops will).

I've had these flip Crocs in the past (mostly to play with my son at the local water park). As rubber shoes go, they'd be fine for commuting shoes, but I still wouldn't want to step into a city puddle in them. (I also wouldn't want to wear them on gravel or anywhere that small stones might get stuck in your shoe.)

Similar options: Oka B. sandals, this closed-toe T-strap jelly sandal, or the Nautica jelly sandals pictured at top.

{related: stylish white blazers for work}

Rubber Ballet Flats!?

If a strap isn't important to you, then there are, of course, a growing number of companies that make rubber ballet flats, including Crocs and Oka B.; the Zappos page devoted to jelly shoes for women shows you can get even Kate Spade New York and Stuart Weitzman shoes in a rain-friendly jelly.

Readers, what do you wear to keep your feet dry when it's raining in the summer? Do you just wear knee socks with your regular rainboots and chalk it up to bad weather, or do you have a separate shoe or system for hot weather? 

If you like these rain boots for summer, you might also want our favorite boots attire content below — 

• Commuting Hall of Fame: Shaye Rain Boot
• Coffee Break: Puddle Boots
• Best Black Knee-High Boots
• Coffee Break: Revel Chelsea V-Gore Boot

Updated stock images via Stencil.

The post Summer Rainboots for Commuting in the Rain appeared first on Corporette.com.

Sure, we all know what wardrobe essentials for work professional women are supposed to have in their closets, but if you’re buying one for the first time or replacing one you’ve worn into the ground, it can be a pain to find exactly the right incarnation in stores. In “The Hunt,” we search the stores for a basic item that every woman should have.

Here's a timely question, readers: Which are the best sneakers for work outfits? When are “sneakers for work” appropriate in your offices? Do you think there's a generational divide here?

Here at Corporette, we've always taken the position that sneakers are fine — for your commute. I certainly wore my Chucks with suits on a lot of commutes, and kind of thought it was a cute look… again, for my commute. But retailers have been showing sneakers with outfits for years (some of the product photos we've featured are pictured below), so I thought it was prime time for a discussion.

Readers even recently had a threadjack pondering this issue (with several saying sneakers were never appropriate for work outfits). I've included some of the choices from Team Sneakers for Work below.

{related: The Ultimate Guide to Business Casual for Women}

Table of Contents:

• The Best Sneakers to Wear with Work Outfits in 2024
• The Best Overall Sneakers for Work Outfits: Cole Haan (read our thoughts / buy)
• The Best Affordable Sneakers for Work: Cariuma (read our thoughts / buy)
• The Best Classic Sneakers for Work: Superga (read our thoughts / buy)
• The Best Athletic Sneakers for Work: J.Crew (read our thoughts / buy)
• The Best Comfort Sneakers for the Office: Vionic (read our thoughts / buy)
• The Best Sneakers for Lousy Weather On Your Commute: AllBirds (read our thoughts / buy)
• The Best Pricey Sneaker for Work ($$$): Tory Burch (read our thoughts / buy)
• The Best Fancy Sneaker for Work ($$$$): Loewe (read our thoughts / buy)
• What to Look For in Sneakers to Wear with Work Outfits
• How to Keep Your Sneakers Looking Clean
• Sneakers For Your Commute
• Weekend Sneakers

The Best Sneakers to Wear to Work in 2024

Without further ado, here are our favorite sneakers to wear to work in 2024!

Best Overall Sneakers for Work Outfits

Cole Haan Grand Pro Topspin

I think this sneaker meets all of the qualifications we're looking for in an office-appropriate sneaker — in particular, the contrasting details such as the beige leather strip around the sole and the lighter beige details on the tongue and back of the shoe are great standouts.

The other HUGE pro here is that Cole Haan is an established, safe brand that is known for making office-appropriate shoes for both men and women — which means that your non-fashion-y boss will almost certainly have seen the shoes if they've been in a store recently.

Another great option here: Cole Haan's oxford sneakers, available in a wide range of colors for both women and men, are $170 at spots like Zappos.

Best Affordable Sneakers for Work

Cariuma OC Low

$79 at Cariuma

Cariumas are consciously made in ethical factories, using natural premium materials, with carbon neutral shipping — and more. The look to old-school sneakers isn't by accident — they've branded themselves as “old-school looks; new school ethics.” Accordingly, the rubber used is collected through an ethical tapping, the vegan insole is made from cork, and the cotton is all organic.

The shoes are $79, available in sizes 5-13 in canvas, suede, leather, and a TON of colors.

Looking for something even MORE affordable? Check out the old-school classics such as Converse, Superga, Keds, or more.

The Best Classic Sneakers for Work

Superga Cotu

$69 at Zappos

$69 at Nordstrom

Like a lot of the “classic” sneakers, the Superga has been around for a loooong time. According to the Nordstrom product page:

“founder Walter Martiny designed the first Superga sneaker in Torino, Italy, in 1911. But it wasn't until 1925 that he expanded his collection to include vulcanized-rubber soles, and in doing so created the now-iconic 2750 tennis shoe. The brand's classic minimalist styles and new hits—beloved by Italians for weekends and getaways — now count fans all around the world.”

For some reason, I always associate Superga with Extremely Fashionable People (perhaps because I've always been a Converse girl myself). Any of the classics can work, though, especially if they're part of your personality and you're comfortable with them.

The Best Athletic Sneakers for Work

J.Crew Colorblock Trainers

$89-$118 at J.Crew

Know your office very well before you try to wear an athletic-looking sneaker to work as part of your outfit. A lot of older people in the workforce will strongly associate this with movies like Working Girl, where the heroine commuted from Staten Island into the city wearing white sneakers with black hose.

THAT SAID, I'm seeing J.Crew colorblock trainers everywhere (particularly this beige-on-beige one pictured), so they deserve a mention.

There are a TON of different options in terms of colorways — for the office I'd keep it relatively neutral. (These particular shoes are 50% off full price at the moment, so if you're interested, now is the time!)

The Best Comfort Sneakers for the Office

Vionic Zinah

$119 at Amazon

There are, of course, a ton of options for the most comfortable sneaker. VIONIC has built-in arch support, as well as a podiatrist-designed footbed.

Here's how the company describes their comfort system:

“The innovative biomechanics of THREE-ZONE COMFORT deliver enhanced stability with a deep heel cup, superior forefoot cushioning, and ultimate arch support midsole. These essential contact points hug your foot's natural curves in all of our casual, dress, active, and slipper styles.”

If you have foot issues, this is definitely one of the top brands to check out. They're available in whole sizes 5-11 for $120.

Other great comfort options: Vionic makes insoles, so you can add those to any shoe of your choosing. AllBirds (below) also get rave reviews for comfort, and readers have also sung the praises of Kizik shoes.

The Best Sneakers for Lousy Weather On Your Commute

AllBirds Mizzle Shoes

$125-$165 at AllBirds

Readers have noted that they really love their Allbirds to wear with work outfits, singing the praises of the extreme comfort of the brand. Their water-repellent shoes are renowned for being great in bad weather, so they're getting our pick for the best sneakers for lousy weather on your commute.

As the company notes, they've combined “cozy ZQ Merino wool and a bio-based water repellent shield [so that] our rain-ready sneaker keeps your feet predictably dry in unpredictable weather.” Nice.

They're available in whole sizes 5-11, in both classic and limited edition colors, for $125-$165 (depending on the style of shoe).

Rothy's has similar styles that are washable.

The Best Pricey Sneaker for Work ($$$)

Tory Burch Ladybug

$288 at Zappos

$288 at Tory Burch

There are a lot of pricey middle options! Tory Burch has some of my favorites, though — not only are they at the more affordable end of this range (roughly $250-$500), but they're simple yet elevated.

The Ladybug sneaker comes in a bunch of different colorways, but they're all predominantly white sneakers.

Reviewers call the sneakers “quite comfortable” and note that they “look super cute with dresses!”

They're available in half-sizes 5-11 for $288.

Another nice option from Tory Burch: the slightly more athletic-looking Hank sneakers. Other option in this middle price range from other brands include P448, Common Project, Rag & Bone, and Acne Studios.

The Best Fancy Sneaker for Work ($$$$)

Loewe Flow Runner Sneakers

$790 at Bergdorf Goodman

$690-$790 at Saks

There are a lot of options for Very Fancy sneakers if you're looking to spend a lot of money — Golden Goose, Gucci, Chloé, Maison Margiela, and more. For my $.02, my vote goes to the Loewe Flow sneakers.

Yes, they're much more athletic-looking than a lot of the other sneakers we've featured… but the distinctive cursive L, the multicolored sole, the colorblocking, the leather and rubber details — all of this adds up to a *chef's kiss* beautiful sneaker.

What to Look For in Sneakers to Wear with Work Outfits

Here are the things I think you should look for in work sneakers:

• They don't look like they were run over in the street.
• They're not super chunky/athletic.
• Look for a design that is just a BIT more than your basic white sneaker — interesting stitching, a contrasting detail

If you need outfit inspiration advice, we highly recommend watching the movie I Care A Lot (currently streaming on Netflix) — lots of colorful suits worn with sneakers.

As always, the most important part of knowing which sneaker to wear to work is knowing your office. Our advice here is the same as it always is: Look to the mid-levels above you for fashion inspiration, not the CEO, partners, or other C-suite people — they've earned the right to wear whatever they want.

For example, in a March 2023 conversation, some readers noted that Golden Gooses were great for their office, but others noted that a “distressed” shoe, no matter how expensive, just wasn't appropriate for their offices.

Another important thing to note: When you wear sneakers to work may be highly dependent on what kind of day you're having, who you're meeting with, and more. You may want to keep a pair of neutral flats or heels in your office just in case — here are some of our latest roundups of comfortable work heels, as well as the most comfortable flats for work.

(Another note: If your bosses are “non-fashion people” and tend to be a bit curmudgeonly, tread really carefully before wearing sneakers to work.)

How to Keep Your Sneakers Looking Clean

Whatever sneakers you're wearing, we love this reader trick: Magic Erasers work great on cleaning dingier white soles and sometimes white leather also.

A lot of brands are also making washable sneakers (notably, Rothy's and Allbirds) — and you can get a specialized bag for your washing machine so they don't knock around.

{related: check out our roundups of foldable flats and washable flats!}

Sneakers For Your Commute

For my $.02, a lot of the newer (expensive!) sneakers look like the kind of thing I kept in my gym locker in middle school — they were so fugly they could stay at school because I'd never want to wear them elsewhere. But obviously, tastes and styles change, and after a bit of adjustment (and seeing it enough places), those of us on the older side adapt. This is partly why I've always suggested being really wary of a new trend or aesthetic that wasn't popular five years ago — but at the rate that fashion moves these days, that may be difficult (and, I suppose, another vote for classic style for work outfits because you're more likely to get more wear out of them).

Commuting Shoes: Sneaker Flats That Will Blend in With Trousers

The main claim to fame for these kinds of sneaker flats is that if you're working in a really conservative office and want to wear comfortable shoes for your commute, but not have a coworker look too closely and think, “Hey, there she is in her sneakers again,” these will blend in. (We've even had conversations in the past about whether commuting shoes should be swapped in the lobby or even outside your office building!)

I will freely admit that these are not chosen because they're “cute” — many are pretty hideous, in my opinion. But they blend with work clothes and are comfortable, and lightweight enough to carry in your bag if you want to.

Reader favorites that have been called out over the years:

Note that if your trousers are hemmed to wear with heels, these shoes might not be the best because your hems might drag on the ground — you could either look for platform sneakers, or go for commuting shoes like comfort brands with chunky heels such as FLY London, Dansko, Eileen Fisher, and Børn.

Sneaker Sneakers for Weekends: The Classics

We've actually had a conversation about what your weekend sneakers say about you — some of the “classic” sneakers we discussed are below…

Pictured below (by color), Row 1: black / gray / gray / white; Row 2: white / white / green / black

What do you think, readers: Are you on Team Sneakers for Work, or on Team Please Wear Shoes? Where would you draw the line for which sneakers are acceptable for work and which aren't? (For example, certain colors like white or black, only “well taken care of sneakers,” sneakers with a specific sole color (e.g., the way that historically, heels with a cork sole aren't appropriate for work?)

Like this feature? Check out other recent installments!

Stock photos via Pexels / Godisable Jacob.

The post Which Are the Best Sneakers for Work Outfits? appeared first on Corporette.com.

What should you wear — and not wear — to look professional (and stay cool) when it's hot outside? Which summer work clothes are the best? We've recently gotten two reader questions on the question of how to look professional when it's hot. 

First up, Reader M wonders:

Hi. I'm 30 years old. I am a rock and roller. Meaning that I work in the music industry. In the past my job was to chaperone the concert site. I was very good at my job. Got a new job in Orlando, FL, that has me now working at a desk. I am now a supervisor. I came into this job in the fall so I had some leftover black wool slacks, nice dark wash denim, and black sweaters to get me through.

It's now almost spring (feels like summer) and I don't know how to do professional for summer. I work in a business casual environment, which helps. I like to keep all of my color in accents like purses, shoes, scarves, etc. I wear monochromatic. It's my signature and super versatile when starting a new wardrobe.

Can you advise cuts, fabrics, etc. of office appropriate summer wear for a newly professional, young lady like myself that's trying to beat the heat without looking like a concertgoer?

Reader T also wonders:

I am heading to D.C. from California this summer for a legal externship, and am in need of advice on the dress code in the legal world when it's 95 degrees. I worked on the Hill for several years and (sadly) recall a lot of flip flops and sundresses during the hotter months.

I imagine that this won't be the case in a legal setting/government agency, but I would love some basic outfit formulas, fabric suggestions (is tweed taboo?), and other ideas for a 30 yr. old to look like a lawyer while fighting the humidity and sticking to a budget.

The Best Summer Work Clothes for Women

In terms of outfit formulations, my go-to looks are boring, but they're classic for a reason: think sheath dresses plus a blazer (to be added once you're inside), and nice, lightweight trousers (look for cotton or cotton blends) with a nice tee and a classic pair of pumps (and ideally a matching blazer). 

As we've noted before, natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen are going to breathe a lot more than non-natural fabrics, so do pay attention to that when buying new pieces. 

(Also: pay attention to the laundry instructions. That $20 pair of pants starts to look less appealing — and less of a deal — when they start to smell to high heaven after two wears and the only way to launder them is to get them drycleaned.)

Our Favorite Lightweight Summer Pants for Work

Some of our favorite summer work pants for women as of 2024 include options from Nic + Zoe, M.M.LaFleur, Ministry of Supply, Uniqlo — and Banana Republic Factory sometimes has pants in their AirStretch line, also!

Fitted, Elegant T-Shirts

Fitted T-shirts can be great because they layer so well under blazers and sweaters, but in the summertime they're also easy to wash and polished enough with the right accessories.

Looking for the best work-appropriate T-shirts? As of 2024, some of our favorite dressy T-shirts for work are from Amazon Essentials, Theory, Everlane, J.Crew, Banana Republic, Nic + Zoe, and Vince — also check our posts on opaque white tees and the best plus-size tees for work!

Hunting for opaque white T-shirts for work? As of 2024, we'd suggest checking the double-layer lines from Boden, Express, Old Navy, and Hobbs, as well as great sources for basic Pima cotton such as L.L.Bean, Uniqlo, Everlane, Banana Republic, and Talbots. (This $268 tee also gets great reviews for opacity, and Elizabeth swears by this tee under $30!)

As of 2024, the best spots to check for nude-for-you undergarments are Gap, Old Navy, or Nubian Skin for tons of options — Victoria's Secret also has a bunch!

The Best Lightweight Blazers

Hunting for lightweight blazers for summer in linen and other fabrics? As of 2024, J.Crew's Helena blazer in stretch linen is a bestseller, as is this super affordable Quince blazer and Old Navy (regular, tall, and petite up to 4X). Along related lines (all machine washable!), check out Uniqlo's Airsense jacket (lightweight and stretchy), Madewell's Drapeweave line (lightweight and drapey) and Brooks Brothers' seersucker line (lightweight and cooling). You can find silk/linen blazers at Ann Taylor and Hobbs; Ann Taylor also has a number of cotton pique options.

White Blazers

White blazers are another great summer work outfit basic because they make everything seem more sunny and fresh.

As of April 2024, some of our favorite stylish white blazers for work include options from J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, Ann Taylor, Liverpool, and Amazon (Cicy Bell, The Drop). If you're looking to splurge, try Smythe or L'Agence.

Lightweight Sweaters for Summer

You don't always want or need a sweater for summer, but these can be great both for navigating the cold air conditioning inside, as well as adding a third piece if you want to look more polished or more covered up…

Our latest favorite lightweight sweaters for work include this Nic + Zoe cardigan and this M.M.LaFleur jardigan. We've also rounded up 100% cotton sweaters, as well as the classic summer sweater, the twinset.

100% silk sweaters are incredibly hard to find at the moment, but Nordstrom has a very limited collection, and J.Crew has a short-sleeve silk sweater.

Some of our favorite silk-cashmere sweaters for work include these from LaLigne and Brooks Brothers; if you're looking to splurge, Akris has a bunch right now.

As of 2024, you can find cotton-cashmere sweaters at Quince, L.L.Bean, and Reformation. You can also sometimes find them from brands like Nordstrom Signature.

Another lightweight but luxe option: cashmere-linen sweaters, such as this option from Vineyard Vines.

Hunting for cotton-merino blends? Everlane has a bunch as of Feb. 2024.

Side Note: Our Favorite Sunscreens

Don't forget sun protection (especially face, hands, and chest)! Sunscreens readers have loved over the years are pictured above: Elta MD, Supergoop!, and this $17 sunscreen (Kat's favorite). Sephora's 2024 Sun Safety Kit is also out and a huge hit with readers. If you're hunting for cute rash guards, check out J.Crew, Boden, Coolibar, and Athleta.

What Not to Wear as Summer Work Clothes

We've talked about what not to wear as a summer associate, what not to wear to work in general, and how to stay cool during a heatwave — but not in many moons. So let's revisit!

A caveat: As we've noted in previous discussions, this is very much a “know your office” situation. If you're working at a NEW office, though, or are still learning your office, you should wait until you see someone significantly more senior than you break these rules before you consider it “office culture.”

(For example: if you're a summer associate at a law firm and see a first-year associate wearing sandals, that doesn't necessarily mean it's ok for everyone to wear sandals.)  It's a bit of a spectrum, but here's my list:

Probably Not OK For Summer Work Clothes (But Know Your Office!)

• Sandals of any kind (shoes that expose at least three toes per foot)
• Shorts (and yes, despite our April Fool's shorts suit roundup a few years ago, we do include short suits on the list of NO)
• Completely wrinkled clothes (linen has its own challenges, but it shouldn't look like you balled it up, packed it in a suitcase, and then decided to wear it)
• Short skirts — there is a spectrum here, but for business it really should be as close to your knee as possible!
• Spaghetti-strap tank or other top that makes no effort to hide bra straps (or worse, requires you to wear a strapless bra)
• Off-season items such as heavy tweed, boucle knits, thick wool trousers (but the thin, light seasonless wool is, you know, seasonless).
• Tights are probably not ok… but pantyhose may be required.
• Cleavage of any kind. If at any point you look down during the day and see your bra, you need a camisole. (You may want to check out some of the newer demi camisoles if the idea of another layer makes you swelter).

Probably OK For Summer Work Clothes

These are probably OK for all but the most conservative of workplaces, but KNOW YOUR OFFICE (and your situation — I wouldn't wear any of the below on my first day or a day with a big meeting)…

• Peep toe pumps (a bit of toe exposed)
• Bare arms (i.e., sheath dress or nice top with bra straps fully covered)
• Bare legs. This varies HUGELY by office and by region — in most places, I'd guess, it's a “of course you don't have to wear pantyhose every day!” situation — but on Big Days in a lot of places (court appearances, client meetings), they may be expected or preferred.

Ok in all places, I'd guess (but know your office!):

• Sleeveless dresses, tops, tees, and blouses, worn with a blazer or cardigan
• Sleeved dresses, tops, tees, and blouses, worn by themselves

We've also talked more about how to build your wardrobe for a summer internship, with what I think is still a solid list of the minimum pieces you should buy.

How to Cool Down Quickly After Your Commute

We've talked about how to stay cool during a heatwave, but here are a few fast tips for cooling down quickly (or to stay cool enough to avoid completely wrecking your clothes):

• a simple fan, carried in your purse or bag — yes, you're expending more energy as you fan yourself, but the bit of a breeze can be amazing if you're stuck on a hot subway platform
• an ice-cold can of soda, held against the inside of your wrist, the back of your neck, or even the back of your knees
• convenient ice packs — there are even necklaces designed to be iced and worn!

These are some interesting products to help you cool down or stay cool on your commute… see more clever products like this in our Amazon shop!

Readers, what are your go-to outfits for the summer? What fabrics and styles do you avoid? 

Picture below via Stencil.

This post was originally written in 2014, but substantially updated as noted.

The post Summer Work Clothes: How to Look Professional When It’s Hot appeared first on Corporette.com.

What shoe brands do you find the most comfortable for work outfits? Especially since some of the old favorite brands seem to be dead, dying, or with very limited options for workwear — let's discuss. (Especially since workwear styles and office dress codes are changing!)

My guess is most people are going to vote for washable flats like Rothy's or Birdies — comfortable, for sure! — but I'm particularly curious to hear from the people in more conservative offices. What are your favorite comfortable shoe brands for work outfits? If you're literally wearing sneakers to work, what are the rules around sneakers as you've observed them? (For example, would you consider a sneaker with a white sole acceptable for a regular day at the office, such as these popular oxfords or these popular slipons?)

Some of the brands we've called out in the past for their extraordinary comfort include Clarks, Børn, Sofft, Stuart Weitzman, Salvatore Ferragamo, Naturalizer, Aerosoles, Rockport, Geox, Arche, AGL, Munro, Cole Haan, Eileen Fisher, Beautifeel, Earthies, Trotters, VANELi, Bella Vita , Vionic, and Lifestride.

Personally, my top votes would be for Clarks, Børn, Sofft, Cole Haan, and Eileen Fisher — but that's me and my “duck feet,” as readers have called them (a wide forefoot with narrow heels).

A few of our roundups from previous posts are below…

Washable Flats

Traditional Flats

Note that a round toe isn't going to look the best with a lot of new work outfits — but they're still comfortable, and in a conservative office will still be seen as “appropriate.”

Some of our favorite comfortable flats for work as of 2024 include M.M.LaFleur, AGL, and French Sole. On the more affordable side, check out Rothy's, Sam Edelman, and Rockport. We've also rounded up the best loafers for work, and our favorite sneakers for work outfits!

Low Heels (Under 2″)

These are some of our favorite comfortable low heels for work as of 2024… also check out CK Calvin Klein, Trotters, Sam Edelman, and Sarah Flint!

Some Black Heels from “Comfort Brands”

Note that this roundup of heels is from the notorious “comfort brands” — but there are obviously a ton of brands that many women find comfortable that are not included here.

If you're seeking “comfort heels,” check out brands like Clarks, Naturalizer, Trotters, Cole Haan, Vionic, and Lifestride! If you definitely want a stable base, check out brands like FLY London, Dansko, Eileen Fisher, Børn — they're great as commuting heels (because you can maintain height for pants hemmed for heels), but they may also be just the ticket if you want something more comfortable.

Some of our latest favorite comfort heels for 2024 are below…

Stock photo via Deposit Photos / belchonock.

The post What Shoe Brands Are the Most Comfortable for Work Outfits? appeared first on Corporette.com.