Comfortable Dressy Shoes for Summer

Though flip flops are the general go-to footwear of choice when the weather heats up, it's possible to find comfortable dressy shoes for summer, too. Whether you love flats or have to be forced out of your heels, you'll find something that suits your tastes and keeps your feet comfortable.

Break out the colorful heels!

Ah, summer. It's filled with endless possibilities: There are vacations to take, adventures to embark upon, icy drinks to consume, friends and family to spend good times with and cool, relaxed fashions to wear. For this far too brief period every year, the key is relaxation and fun. Clearly, these sentiments translate to our choices of clothing, accessories and even makeup. One need only flip through a summer fashion catalog or magazine to see that the themes almost always center on comfort, color and easiness.

Of course, "easy" is quite a relative term when it comes to dressy footwear. They may be easy to slip into, but after that you're often left to your own devices as you teeter uncomfortably around a dance floor or to a party, doing your best to smile despite the fact that your feet seem to be swelling into little balloons in those pinching, uncomfortable shoes. The truth is that comfortable shoes should be essential year round, but they're especially important during the summer, when keeping cool is so crucial.

Fortunately, the selection of comfortable dressy shoes for summer is abundant. You don't even have to commit to heels if you prefer to stay level. There are plenty of gorgeous, occasion-worthy flats available, too.

The weather may be hot, but summer fashions are equally – if not more – so. Shopping for summer shoes can be quite enjoyable, whether it's a colorful pair of flip flops you're after or a chic pair of heels to go with that new lightweight dress. If, however, your agenda is packed with dressy events that demand a more polished shoe, you can count on finding a great selection of styles that will keep your feet cool, comfortable and looking their best.

Maybe you're just not in the mood for heels, or perhaps you loathe wearing them altogether. Whatever the case may be, a pair of flats can easily see through a dressy event in style. Look for enigmatic materials, like patent leather, suede, satin or snakeskin. Many dressy flats are finished with delicate details, such as perforated cutouts, rosettes, gemstones or ankle straps. These styles are perfect for summer; they look great with short or full skirts, sheath dresses and most party dresses. If you want to add a bit of height, look for a flat with a slight heel.

A dressy wedge? It's possible to find the right pair if you look hard enough. Again, seek out materials that are especially dressy, like patent leather and suede. It's the details that make the biggest difference, though; look for sequins, peep-toes and shiny hardware. Steer clear of excessively high heels, which can appear clunky. Note that wedges won't work with your most elegant dresses, but they can make a nice addition to a feminine, summery dress.

Heels and sandals offer you the most options when it comes to tracking down the type of shoes you're after. Look to Cole Haan in particular if comfort is the number one goal. The company's shoes are enhanced with Nike Air Technology, which ensure that they'll feel light and comfortable on your feet for hours. The Nike Air line includes everything from wedding shoes to mary jane pumps, so there's definitely something for every purpose and occasion.

Let's face it: Comfortable shoes can be tough to find. If comfort is truly the goal, avoid stiletto heels entirely. Examine the workmanship of your shoe before purchasing it. If the material is of good quality, it's much less likely to pinch into your skin and cause discomfort. Above all, make sure that your shoe fits. This is often the greatest cause of discomfort, and it's so easily avoided by simply choosing a style that will not pinch or squeeze your toes, rub against your heel or shift your gait to an unnatural position.

In addition to the aforementioned Cole Haan, look to labels like Aerosoles and Naturalizer. Both brands have made names for themselves as leaders in trendy, comfortable footwear. New shoes are offered each season, so check back frequently.

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