Comfortable Shoes High on Style
When we women think of beautiful shoes, we are often quick to cast away hopes for comfort. Style and comfort are just not two things that really go together -- especially where shoes are concerned, right? While that's usually the case, Naturalizer stands apart. It seems that they have found a way to make stylish shoes that actually feel good to wear. We editors at AOL Shopping discovered this first-hand in our own favorite pairs of Naturalizer shoes featuring the N5 Comfort design. You can catch our thoughts and shoe-inspired looks below!
Veronica in Valya
How She Wore Them
My Naturalizer 'Valya' Jungle Snake flats are faux snakeskin mixed with pleather on the heel and the toe area. Rather than selecting a top with hints of snakeskin print, I chose a belted toffee-colored sweater dress, black skinny jeans and let the flats speak for themselves. They added just the right amount of pop to my ensemble. I just love that they are versatile (and comfy) enough to wear with a pair of jeans or your favorite frock.
Comfort Factor
I wore my Naturalizer shoes all day at work, to and from meetings and to the grocery store. So far, I've worn them for various other occasions, too -- shopping in the mall, to church, while driving 5+ hours -- and I've never complained of foot pain. Not only are they comfortable but I've even gotten a few compliments. A win-win for me!
Get Veronica's Valya Ballet Flats for $59.99 (Retail $69) >>
Gen in ClavaHow She Wore Them
I wanted to wear something dressy and festive to match the shine and sophistication of the shoe.
Comfort Factor
These shoes got a full day! I wore them around the office the entire day and I even stayed in these Clava pumps for our company holiday party that evening, too. I love that they work for both day and night looks! These shoes are really comfortable. I could tell that they were going to be from the moment I slipped them on. The cushioning is my favorite factor. The heel is sturdy and very manageable at just three inches. Some pumps feel too narrow in the toe area, but this was just right. I did notice that my feet were tired of being in the heels at the very end of the evening, but I had already been in them for over 11 hours! That says a lot! This is a great shoe to wear for long days and events!
Get Gen's Clava Pumps for $79 >>
Gina in ImanHow She Wore Them
These Iman ankle boots gave off a vintage vibe that inspired me to reach for retro polka dots, a paperbag-waist skirt and my antique pendant necklace. The shoes themselves had such unique detailing on the leather that I wanted to include other black pieces with special details, too -- the black sequin vest and black lace-patterned tights. I ended up going for a sweet, vintage look, but the great thing is that I could have easily gone in an edgy, trendy or casual direction with these shoes, too.
Comfort Factor
I wore these shoes from 8 AM to 11 PM on a Friday. These took me from around the office to around the city after work; and at the end of the night, while I was exhausted, my feet were still ready for more. The shoe's N5 comfort system kept my steps light and soft with every cushioned step. I appreciate that the shoes are low-impact, making it easy on my feet, knees and hips. I was also surprised by how well the shoes fit the size and shape of my foot. I finally had enough arch support, the shoes hugged my heel and my toes had just enough room to breathe. The only issue I had was with the ankle cuff. I wore the laces loose so the stiff cuffs would rub into my ankles periodically. While still breaking in the cuffs, I've taken to wearing Band-Aids to prevent the chaffing on longer days.
Get Gina's Iman Ankle Boots for $119.99 (Retail $149) >>
Not only are Naturalizers comfortable and right on trend, but the wide availability of styles in extended sizes for larger or smaller feet makes Naturalizer a favorite brand that you just want to keep coming back to. It also helps that their shoes are completely affordable. So, whether for work or play, errands or events, if you plan on being on your feet for more than a few hours, definitely set yourself up for success in a cute pair of Naturalizers. Go with one of the N5 Comfort styles and you won't be limping and wincing in pain by the end of your day.
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