We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Note: all sizes are women's sizes unless otherwise stated.
1. A pair of black satin pumps seemingly made for gallivanting around like you're the main character in a rom-com about a young lady rediscovering herself in a ~wild~ new city.
They shoes also come with gel inserts, heel studs, and a clip-on accessory for additional comfort!
Promising review: "The pair of shoes fits perfectly. What made me truly enjoy my shoes besides the comfort, was because of all the great amenities the company sends with the shoes. Pads for the balls of your feet, heel cushions, backup heel studs, and a clip on accessory if you choose to use it. I had never been so comfortable in heels before. I wore them all night, and also received so many compliments! I would definitely buy from this company again." —moomoo23
Get them from Amazon for $45.99+ (available in sizes 6–10).
2. A Mexican-style huarache heel embroidered with care and made from leather that will stretch to the contours of your feet as you dance the night away in your new stunners.
Mexicanita Handmade is a Latinx woman-owned small biz based in Kennwick, Washington that offers stunning Mexican huarache clothes and goods.
Promising review: "These shoes are everything I hoped they would be, they're so soft and GORGEOUS, I can’t wait to make a dress to match them. Shipping was fast, and seller advice to size down was perfect advice. I wear a 7.5 and got a 7 and they fit perfect. I think I could have even got a 6 but I will definitely order from her again 💜" —phoenix1018
Get it from Mexicanita Handmade on Etsy for $69.29+ (available in sizes 5–10).
3. A heeled sandal made with stretchy straps that hold in your feet without cutting off your circulation and making you wish you could amputate your limbs at will, like a starfish.
Promising review: "I love these shoes. They arrived right on time, and are so comfortable! They fit true to size. The straps are stretchy thick fabric. They look really nice, but they are soft and stretchy, so no pinching or straining my feet as I've experienced with other strappy shoes. The wide heels make them comfortable to stand and walk in as opposed to shoes with spiky heels that can be hard to balance in. I can wear these for hours and my feet are not sore the next day. Highly recommend them as an affordable attractive high heel." —Cari Ann Fox
Get them from Amazon for $51.79+ (available in sizes 5–11, as well as Wide sizes).
4. A pair of true chunky platforms with a deceptively high five-inch heel if you want that height without feeling like a newborn giraffe with weak ankles, hobbling around in the savannah.
Promising review: "I typically like to get shoes that are under three inches because I find high heels to be very uncomfortable. But these shoes are the exception. About five inches high, these heels are very comfortable and very very cute. I wore these shoes during my graduation yesterday, and my feet did not hurt even after walking for much of the day. Note that I didn't even break these shoes in, (it was my first time wearing them) and yet they were very comfortable on the first wear! I would 10 out of 10 recommend this! Get yourself these shoes if you are looking for an easy-to-wear pair of cute heels." —TMJ
Get them from Amazon for $60.99 (available in sizes 5–12).
5. An ultra-comfy Clarks black pump in a Mary Jane style that's so comfy and wearable it shouldn't be called a heel... maybe a "heel" but definitely not a 👹heel, 👹 a devilish word usually accompanied by a shudder.
Promising review: "This is the most comfortable, versatile, and wearable heel I have ever worn. With a 3 1/4-inch heel and shock absorbent insole, it is a 9-to-5-and-sometimes-later business/dress shoe that exceeds all of my prior expectations. This is the 'heel' that all professional women and ladies who seek the best in fashion should buy and enjoy!" —Jane
Get it from DSW for $69.99 (available in sizes 5.5–12).
6. A black oxford heel for a chunky take on your favorite childhood pair of Mary Janes — all grown up, and with a sensible cushioned footbed to boot.
Promising review: "These are seriously the most comfortable shoes I've put on my feet. I have very wide feet and there is not one spot that pinches or is painful in any way. That's a first for me with dress shoes. They would probably be too roomy for a narrow foot. Otherwise, they fit true to size. The buckle threw me off a bit at first but it's actually very convenient. They give good height without feeling like much of a heel at all. I am a sneaker person and normally don't wear dressy shoes but will more often with now that I have found these. I plan to order more in different colors." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes 4.5–10).
Psst...here are 30 more chunky pairs of heels if you don't want to lose your balance!
7. A pair of black pumps that's the classic silhouette of your dreams, imbued with the shoe sorcery of being super comfy and chic at the same time. Your new go-to shoe, if you will.
Promising review: "What a fabulous shoe! As a realtor, I'm always looking for a professional, luxurious, comfortable, hardworking pump that can take me from my desk, across lawns, and through after 5pm networking engagements. The craftsmanship of the shoe is superb. The durability is comparable to that of high-end designers. The block heel, which offers an edgy 'surprise' with the pointy toe, is a perfect width and height... when showing properties, I never fret about changing into flat shoes. While I typically purchase expensive designer shoes, I must admit that I'm amazed at the true-to-size fit, the ease of care (simply wipe shoes with a dry cloth), and the countless compliments I receive each time I wear these stunning pumps! Thanks, Nordstrom!" —MethodicallyMinimalistic
Get them from Nordstrom for $159.95+ (available in sizes 5–12 and two widths).
8. A dainty black wrap heel you'll love the ritual of tying up, since that means you're about to have a bomb night out, flaunting those ankles like nobody's business 🔥
Promising review: "These shoes are just what I needed! A universal shoe that I can dress any outfit up or just wear everyday! I am usually a US 8.5/EU38 but after reviewing the Alohas site, I saw if you’re between sizes, round up." —McConneaugheeyy
Get it from Free People for $138 (available in sizes 5–10).
9. An Everlane day heel made from 100% Italian leather, and actually designed to be worn. The elasticized back and two-inch block heel make it so that you'll still be sitting pretty after not just an hour, not until your feet give out, but all day!
Promising review: "My first thought after I slipped these puppers on was, 'HOLY SHIT, are these really heels? They don't feel like any heels I've ever worn, period. They're so comfortable.' I knew the heel would be low, but I didn't expect them to actually feel like flats. And the best part is — drumroll, please — the elasticized backs are SO soft and stretchy (the little loop also makes it super easy to get a snug fit), that there were no blisters/rubbing/anything on the back of my heel and the bony part of my achilles (anatomy isn't my strong point, sorry). Usually the backs of my heels are war zones of overlapping bandages for the first five times I wear a new pair of shoes before they are painfully broken in. I did have to loosen up the front parts of the shoes a bit with the 'ol thick-socks-and-blowdryer-trick, but that took all but a minute. I walked around in them all day long with no problem and actually felt sad about having to take them off when I got home — so, yeah, these are what I call 'game changers.' Even though I'll still keep my flats in rotation, I felt more sophisticated and purposeful walking around the office when I have my Day Heels on — they make me feel like a Real Professional Adult Woman, and a few, much-needed inches taller at that! Bless you, Everlane." —Sarah Han
Read the rest of ex-Buzzfeeder Sarah Han's glowing review in Just 8 Everlane Products That We Really Love!
Get it from Everlane for $160 (available in sizes 5–11).
10. A pair of bow platform pumps so you can bring some much-needed vintage flair to the function. These guys will carry you all night, just like you're carrying the party on your back. 😎
Promising review: "Love love love these shoes! I am 100% that girl who does not wear heels, mostly due to a hip injury and the fact that I have been working bedside for years and Vans are just more comfortable. But these heels are heavenly. They are wide enough that if you have wide feet they don't pinch your toes or feel too tight. I just made the switch to an administrator role and figured I'd need heels over Vans to go with office clothes. These heels match my vintage aesthetic and are comfortable enough that I can walk around a major hospital campus with ease. I'm in love! If you want heels and aren't used to wearing them these are great starter shoes. Only advice is to put a bit of padding in the ball of the foot since it's not padded at all, but otherwise my go to work shoes." —Kimberly F Freeman
Get them from Amazon for $43.99+ (available in sizes 6–11).
11. A super unique heeled slide sandal that couldn't be easier to slide on and stunt on everybody in the room, especially since the sculptural heel is a literal chain link you can stand on.
12. A completely vegan block heel sandal as your new favorite sustainable splurge of the season, because you did worked really hard this quarter and you deserve a cheeky black heel, as a treat.
Get it from Matt & Nat for $110 (available in sizes 5–10).
13. A woven-style black heel destined to be your new vacation heel, going-to-brunch heel, party heel, eating heel, drinking heel, sleeping heel... you get the picture, it's super versatile.
Promising review: "OBSESSED. Besides being so cute, two main reasons: 1) the first time I wore these I had to be on my feet for three hours straight (not the smartest move), and I had zero blisters/minimal foot discomfort. I won’t lie, it still felt great to kick them off after, but that’s just heels in general (especially not broken in). I plan on wearing these to my college graduation which will be even more time on my feet, and I’m not concerned at all. 2) As a tall girl with big feet, I find that the heel is the perfect height to give that boost without being too much of a ~statement~ for my height." —bt
Get it from Target for $34.99 (available in sizes 5–12).
14. A square-toe heeled sandal that's easy to put on, trendy, and comfortable, ideal for turning anybody into a heel-wearer, even if previously they wouldn't be caught dead in anything loftier than an inch.
Promising review: "I don’t normally write reviews, but I ordered these shoes as a bridesmaid for my best friend’s wedding, and they were perfect. Extremely comfortable, and I couldn’t have been happier with this purchase. Had other bridesmaids saying they wish they brought them as well. Extremely happy with these shoes. I’m 6.5 and sometimes have issues finding shoes being a half size but these were true to size as well! Highly recommend." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $49.90 (available in sizes 5–13).
15. A classy wraparound black pump if you've been burned by heels before — nursing four blisters at once, wanting more than anything just to go home so you can pry your heels off your feet — but are willing to give heels one last try. Let these be your saving grace, guiding you back towards the light.
Promising review: "I bought these at the last minute to wear on Easter Sunday. THANK YOU Lord, for Amazon two-day shipping guarantee! Anyway, didn't get to break them in, as they arrived Saturday evening. Wore them Sunday with expectations of having sore feet. Happily surprised that from the time I put them on until I got home, no hurt feet. No pinching, rubbing, blisters or aching feet. I KNOW?!?! I thought, 'Well maybe it's because I only wore them for a couple of hours.' So...I wore them again this weekend, but for waaayyyy longer than I intended (6+ hours). Happy to say, still no foot pain! Know the really surprising thing about all this is? I've had several neck and back surgeries through the years and I live with daily chronic pain. The height of these heels was perfect for me — as it didn't bother my back. As for my neck, the pain level stayed the same as it was before I wore the shoes. Believe me, it is a BIG deal to have manageable pain... and to not have anything you wear add to it. I'm very happy with this purchase! I'm buying another pair in black today. These ran true to size for me, I purchased a 7W." —Amazonaddiction
Get it from Amazon for $52.49+ (available in sizes 5–11, and in Wide sizing).
For more heels you won't immediately want to take off, check out this list.
16. A pair of black chunky heels with a pretty round-toe silhouette and a fringe to round out your heel collection and make you feel like a million bucks every time you leave the house.
Promising review: "I love these shoes! I have them in black, blue, and brown and I bought them for work. I wear them all day and have no complaints. They’re classic and professional looking. Worth the money." —DIANE Melany
Get it from Amazon for $69.99 (available in sizes 4–15).
17. A pair of high-heeled sandals serving the best mix between comfy gladiator sandals and your fave going-out heels in one shoe that you'll never stop wearing.
Marcella NYC is a woman-owned small biz that designs gorgeous minimalist clothing in NYC, handcrafted in Europe.
Promising review: "Whoever said that diamonds are a girl's best friend was wrong. I love my new high heels. Perfect fit and excellent for any occasion from casual to going out for date night. I have no complaints. I am always well received at Marcella. Also, I got them just in time. Thank You💗" —doloresgomez815
Get it from Marcella NYC on Etsy for $166.50 (available in US sizes 6–11).
18. A black pump featuring a reasonable 2.5 inch heel, but a bombshell cutout design that'll transform even the most basic T-shirt and jeans combo into an envious outfit.
Promising review: "I have always been super uncomfortable in high heels because I have very wide feet (picture a duck's feet). These heels are the first I have ever been able to wear all night! I was very skeptical but wanted to wear something cuter than my basic black flats with the nice dress I bought for a wedding. I not only kept these shoes on all night but even danced at the wedding! Seriously, try them if you have wide feet and have given up on high heels —they may surprise you too!" —Rachael U.
Get it from Amazon for $59.95 (available in sizes 5–12, as well as Wide sizes).
19. A pointed toe black heel if you've got a big night coming up and all your other black heels are just falling short for some reason... enter the see-through heel.
Lilly's Kloset is a Black woman-owned online boutique that offers unique and size-inclusive clothes, shoes, and accessories.
Promising review: "Great shoes, very comfortable and stylish... got plenty of compliments...🙌🏽❤️❤️❤️" —Elizabeth J.
Get it from Lilly's Kloset for $88 (available in sizes 6–11).
20. A leather heeled mule sandal that's well-made and walkable, unlike those cheap heels you bought on a whim the other day that cut your poor feet up like mincemeat.
Promising review: "I have narrow feet and a high arch and have no problems in these. My feet are so narrow that when I wear heels with a strap, it never stays on, my feet always fall out of it. But like I said, I have no issues yet. This is leather so it should stretch a little, but I don't see that becoming an issue. Also these are very comfortable, perfect for day to day wear." —Brooke100101
Get it from Madewell for $138 (available in sizes 5–12).
21. A see-through black pump taking cutouts to a whole other level, because sometimes, your feet are the accessory and you gotta show those things off!
Promising review: "I love these pumps. I was a little hesitant to purchase these but I am so glad I did. I received so many compliments but the best part was that they stayed comfortable throughout the night. I sized half a size up. I will definitely buy from this brand again!" —Jackie
Get it from Schutz for $118 (available in sizes 5–11).
22. A Clarks slip-on heeled loafer that comes in narrow and wide sizing, plus an orthopedic footbed so you can finally feel like Cinderella did when she tried on that glass slipper — not too big, not too small, but juuuust right.
Promising review: "I ordered these in an 11N and these were true to size and beyond my expectations! The leather is of excellent quality and the heel height is perfect! The width is where this shoe exceeded my expectations. My feet are so narrow that even shoes that are listed as 'runs narrow' are too wide. If you have a truly narrow foot, these are a must! Clark’s Emslie Warren shoes were designed with comfort without sacrificing style. These shoes are not stiff and the insoles have that plush ortholite sole that Clark’s is known for. I might just have to go back and get another pair in a different color! Thank you Clark’s for making shoe shopping so easy!" —Sarah Joelle Moloney
Get it from Amazon for $56.99 (available in sizes 5–12, also in Narrow and Wide sizes).
23. A fancy platform slide no one else in your circle will have — complete with a hand-carved heel that's two inches in the back and one inch in the front and soft 100% Italian leather, these are statement clogs if I've ever seen them.
Beklina is a woman-owned small biz — the "original online eco boutique" — creating ethical, beautiful clothes and home objects.
Promising review: "The are the best shoes ever! I've never gotten so many compliments. I love the other colors but the black go with everything, I live in them. They completely make my look too. I wear the most boring basics and t-shirts, jeans, every day, and the slides totally elevate and transform my boring basics. Thank you. Love them so much." —Lara
Get it from Beklina for $310 (available in sizes 5.5–11.5).
You, after buying your new staple black heels:
Reviews have been edited for clarity and/or length.