Because I teach, I learned years ago to wear comfortable shoes. I buy Birkenstock almost exclusively for work. They're costly, but my feet are oh, so happy.
Dansko are stylish and supposedly very comfortable, but they are too narrow for me. I usually buy Keens but they're not to everyone's taste. They sure are comfortable, though! I second the Dansko suggestion. I have a ton of shoes (just ask my DH) but since I started have joint problems my 3 pairs of Danskos are the only ones I can wear for any length of time. I buy all my clothes now based on whether or not they go with my Danskos! They're pricey but so worth it. I love Birkenstock but my other brand is UGHs. They are both pricey but all so worth it and last foreverPS FormerMermaid I love you Avatar! GO Steelers!Birkenstocks helped me. My ballerina feet with great arches went flat! OUCH! Then I bought some Birkenstock insoles and I wear them in Clark's. I have rxed orthotics for my sneakers, but at the end of the day--they hurt--not so with the Birkenstock insoles. I love sketchers to teach in. They are made like tennis shoes so they're comfy but they are so cute at the same time. Of course I also have to have those Dr. Scholls inserts. I have them in white, black and brown :) absolutely the best shoes on the planet are crocs...no they arent dressy though..but they are really comfortable and good for your feet. Dansco and Clarkes are good, cheaper alternatives are Dr Scholls or Earth Shoe (both sold at Walmart). The best way to test out shoes is to shoe shop when your feet hurt. You can pretty much tell right away, as soon as you slip your foot into a shoe, if you will be able to wear it or not. Also, you may do better with a wide width shoe if you are looking for dress shoes, so as to accomodate for any swelling. Sometimes having a back up pair of shoes at work is helpful. I wear crocs for work and I love love love them.
I like wearing Merrell's. They offer great cushioning... it's like walking on marshmallows. I have plantar faschitis so my shoes have to give me good heel support and cushioning. I have some Clarks and Rockports... they're ok, but they can't beat my Merrells. I have a pair of black slipons that I can wear with dress pants and jumpers. My Merrell runners are wide enough for orthotic inserts & they double as my winter boots. Merrells are pricey but I've had my runners for 5 years. I wear them every day and they still look new.
cheers
Judy
Pedors Orthopedic Footwear
K.
UGGS - sooooooooo comfy! you can get boots or slip on's and they all have a thick sheep fur lining the insides that is so thick. So soft and cozy on your feet and ankles. I love love love them :) and highly reccommend