Business women's dress soes are a must have and staple for your career. If you deal with the public on a daily basis, chances are that the human resources department has mandated some type of dress code. Educators, financial service representatives, and legal personnel are some of the many groups of women that may slip their feet into dress shoes on Monday through Friday. Whether you like it or not, appearance is everything when dealing with members, customers, peers, parents, and colleagues. Dress the part, and you are already 10 steps ahead of the crowd.

What are business dress shoes?

Business dress shoes fall under the category of dress shoes (no brainer, right?). Dress shoes include any shoe that is in stark contrast to casual or athletic type shoes. Dress shoes can be worn to work, church, and formal events. Typically dress shoes have low to higher heels, some type of embellishment, and can be worn with dressier clothes (i.e. professional business suits, skirts, blouses, dresses, and slacks).

Okay, but why should I own a pair?

Flip flops are comfortable. Swiss cheese slingback Crocs are easy on the feet. These shoes are perfect lounging attire or basic errands. During your lifetime you will need dress shoes for court or job interviews. You may counter that if someone cannot accept you for who you are then you don't need to work for them. True, but if you plan on working with the public you will need dress shoes.

What are my options?

Steve Madden Dreemm

This dress shoe has a peep toe, platform, adjustable strap, and stiletto heel. The black leather is perfect for an office environment. The gold color is a more striking color and is appropriate for dressier formal occasions.

Jessica Simpson Lizza

Whoa, mama! These dress shoes are on fire. You can choose the patent leather finish in red or the leopard print pump to add an excellent touch to your business outfit. This style is flattering for dresses, skirts, and pants, and can provide a nice bit of color for upcoming gloomy weather.

Anne Klein Happy

The Happy shoe is perfect for women who don't want high heel shoes on their feet. The shoes has super comfortable flexible midsoles, a thick 3 inch heel, and rubber soles. What else? A darling bow near the toe!

BCBGirls Alimie

The Alimie is a class business dress shoe. The sling back and pointed toe are classic, and the patent leather finish provides a bit of pizzazz. Wear this shoe everyday, for interviews, special occasions, or a night out with coworkers.

What can I wear with business dress shoes?

Crisp blouse+ slim skirt+ peep toe heels +pearls

Wrap dress + pointed toe pumps + several bracelets

Skirt suit + ruffle blouse'+ sling back heels

Pants suit + silk blouse + scarf + pear stud earrings + hidden platform pumps

Long tunic'+ long sleeved shirt + slim black pants + multiple necklaces + flat patent leather ballet flats

What if they aren't comfortable?

Business women's dress shoes don't have to mean high heels. It's the entire outfit that defines business casual or business attire. You wouldn't wear high heel pumps with sweats, just as you wouldn't (shouldn't!) wear tennis shoes with a formal gown. Let's keep it all into perspective. Brands like'Crocs,'Naturalizer,'Bandolino, and'Aerosoles'all make business dress shoes available in various heel heights to feet the needs of all women. Don't force yourself into high heel shoes if you know you will be standing all day. Also consider comfortable gel shoe inserts by Dr. Scholls or inserting'foot petals'on the balls of your feet to provide comfort.