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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.
One of the most frequent requests I get from readers is to feature lower heeled options, so I thought I’d do a round-up today of some of the most classically beautiful heels you can get with a height of less than 2.5 inches (trying to focus on 2″ and less because that’s really my own definition of a low heel). We’ll also put our favorite flat work shoes below, as well!
Readers, what is your ideal heel height? For those of you who prefer lower heeled pumps, which brands do you swear by?
{related: check out our Guide to Comfortable Heels!}
Our Latest Favorite Low Heel work shoes
Comfortable Low Heels
KItten-Heel Pumps for Work
Kitten heels are generally under 1.5″ so they can be a great option — and they’re trendy right now. Nordstrom has a bunch right now from brands like Sam Edelman, Franco Sarto, Open Edit, Dolce Vita, Jeffrey Campbell, and Steve Madden. Looking for something fancier? Check out Sarah Flint, Stuart Weitzman, and M.M.LaFleur.
Business Casual Low Heel Boots
As of 2025, some of our favorite general boots for work outfits include the ones below…
Kitten-Heeled Boots
Our latest favorite affordable kitten-heeled boots include those from Madewell and J.Crew.
Knee-High Boots Under 2.5″
A Closer Look at Some Great Low Heel pumps for Work
Rothy’s
Rothy’s has recently added heels to their lineup, and they look great if you’re on the hunt for a lower heel. This reader favorite brand has been coming out with comfortable flats for years, but this is their first foray into heels, at least as far as I can recall.
This “sparrow herringbone” is one of six colors they have right now. The heels are available in half sizes from 5-13, for $169.
Ann Mashburn
Ann Mashburn’s low, square-toed pump with a buckle detail is getting great reviews — and I love how it feels timeless.
The shoe is available in sizes 5-10.5, and is $295-$325 full price (but several colors are on sale!).
Ferragamo
If you want the OG flat for the office, you have to look at Ferragamo. They have a definite “old lady” look to them, but that’s part of the appeal — I’ve seen one fashionista note that it takes a bit of work and know-how to make them look good if you’re younger.
The classic low Ferragamo heel is the Vara; you can also check out the Varina if you want more of a flat heel.
Tory Burch Georgia Pump
These 1.5″ square toe heels from Tory Burch have a great no-nonsense look to them — low, sturdy, efficient — but also somehow luxe. I also like that there are a variety of brownish beige tones which could be nude-for-you.
They’re available in sizes 5-12 and are $348 new — you can find new styles and sale styles at Nordstrom, Zappos and Tory Burch.
Naturalizer Becca Pump
This super low pump from Naturalizer looks perfect for the office! I like the pointy toe (great for full length trousers, dresses and skirts!) and the super super low block heel.
Nordstrom, Zappos, and Naturalizer all have a ton of colors in the shoe. Another similar option: this low slingback from Naturalizer.
AK Anne Klein Fabulist
I’m sure we’ve mentioned this comfortable heel for work before — it’s even in our Workwear Hall of Fame! — but I’m always intrigued when a shoe that’s been around for eons is STILL so highly rated, coming out in new colors, and one of the bestsellers at Zappos.
(It’s also worth noting that, if you haven’t worn heels in a while, there’s a lot to love here — an ankle strap, a low heel, AND serious cushioning.)
The shoe comes in five colors right now at Zappos and is available in sizes 5–11 for $79.
VERY low heel work shoes: Sophisticated Flats for Work Outfits
Flats have come a really long way in terms of acceptability at most offices — but know your office! None of these will really match the sleekness of low heels, but they can still be great options if you must…
The Best Strappy Flats for the Office
The Best Loafers for Work Outfits
Reader-Favorite Flats for Work
Other Reader-Favorite Comfortable Heels (In General)
Hunting for comfortable work heels? We’ve got a whole guide just for that, but as of 2025 some of our favorites include Marc Fisher LTD, Sam Edelman, M.M.LaFleur, and Cole Haan. On the pricier side, check out Ferragamo, Stuart Weitzman, and Sarah Flint. For comfort-first styles, look to Vionic, Sofft, and Naturalizer.
Our Favorite Heels for People Who Can’t Wear Heels
If you’re seeking “comfort heels,” check out brands like Clarks, Naturalizer, Trotters, Cole Haan, Sofft, Vionic, and Lifestride! If you definitely want a stable base, check out funkier brands like FLY London, Dansko, Eileen Fisher, and 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 2025 are below…
Like this feature? Check out other recent installments!
Stock photo via Deposit Photos / leungchopan.
