Fashion trends have increasingly blurred the lines between formal and casual wear. This has led to a spectrum of interpretations.
People disagree on what’s appropriate to wear to the office. For instance, strappy heels have elegant and sometimes daring designs. They offer a unique blend of style and sophistication.
But do you think it is appropriate to wear strappy heels to work? Let’s find out!
Are Strappy Heels Appropriate for Work?
Yes, wearing strappy heels is appropriate for work. However, it depends on the workplace culture and the specific job role. For some positions, such as customer-facing roles or jobs that require a lot of walking, strappy heels may not be the best choice.
If you’re unsure about whether strappy heels are appropriate for your workplace, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and dress conservatively.
The Dos and Dont’s of Heels in the Office
Dos
- Choose heels for business casual that strike a balance between style and professionalism.
- Go for neutral colors like black, nude, or navy that complement your office attire, ensuring your heels are appropriate heels for work.
- Invest in high-quality, well-constructed heels that offer support and durability, making them the best heels for work.
- Ensure your heels are clean and well-maintained to present a polished appearance for heels for office wear.
- Wear heels with closed-toe designs for a more conservative look suitable for the office.
- Pair your heels with appropriately tailored pants, skirts, or dresses for a professional ensemble.
- Practice walking confidently and comfortably in your heels to avoid looking awkward or unsteady.
- Use cushioned insoles or gel inserts to enhance comfort and reduce strain on your feet.
- Consider wearing stockings or tights to provide additional comfort and prevent blisters.
- Experiment with different styles and materials to find heels that suit your personal style while still adhering to office dress codes.
Don’ts
- Avoid wearing excessively high heels (above 4 inches) that can be impractical and inappropriate for the office environment.
- Steer clear of flashy or overly embellished heels that may distract from your professional appearance.
- Don’t wear heels with worn-out soles or visible damage, as they can appear unprofessional.
- Refrain from wearing heels that are too tight or pinch your feet, as they can cause discomfort and distraction.
- Avoid wearing overly casual heels, such as flip-flops or sandals, as they are not appropriate for most office settings.
- Don’t mix overly trendy or avant-garde heels with conservative office attire, as it may seem out of place.
- Avoid wearing heels with loud colors or patterns that clash with your office attire or draw too much attention.
- Refrain from wearing heels with straps or embellishments that create excessive noise while walking in the office.
- Don’t wear heels with pointed toes that can be uncomfortable and potentially cause foot pain.
- Avoid wearing heels that you’re not confident walking in, as it can lead to accidents or discomfort throughout the workday
How Do You Wear Strappy Heel Sandals
1. Avoid anything too flashy or sexy
Stick to neutral colors and classic styles that won’t look out of place in a professional setting. Stick to primary colors like black, brown, or nude. These colors will go with almost anything and will tone down the sexiness of the heels.
2. Accessorize conservatively
And finally, don’t forget to pay attention to the details. Add a few simple accessories, such as a watch or a pair of earrings, to complete your look. Stick to simple jewelry that won’t compete with your shoes. A pair of small stud earrings or a delicate necklace should suffice.
This will help you to look put-together and polished.
3. Choose a heel that is not too high
You want to be able to walk and stand in your heels without pain or difficulty. A moderate heel height is best. Pair them with classic office staples like a pencil skirt or tailored trousers. Avoid mini-skirts or other revealing clothing.
Wearing strappy heels to work can be a great way to add a touch of glamour to your outfit. Just remember to keep the overall look professional and avoid anything too sexy or flashy. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to make a great impression at the office.
Tips for Wearing Strappy Heels at Work
1. Make sure they’re comfortable
The last thing you want is to be hobbling around the office in pain. If you’re not used to wearing heels, start with a lower heel and gradually build up to higher ones. And always break in new shoes before wearing them to work.
2. Consider the occasion
Is it a big presentation or a meeting? If so, you’ll want to dress more conservatively and go for a classic pump or closed-toe heel. However, if it’s just a normal day at the office, then you can probably get away with something a little more fun and trendy like a strappy heel.
3. Pair them with the right outfit
Strappy heels look best when they’re worn with dresses or skirts, not pants. And make sure your hemline is long enough that it covers most of the shoe. You don’t want anyone getting an unwanted peep show.
4. Be confident
No matter what you’re wearing, confidence is always the best accessory. So stand tall, walk with purpose, and own your look.
Are Strappy Sandals Business Casual?
When it comes to workwear, there are a few hard-and-fast rules: no ripped jeans, no tank tops, and no flip-flops. But what about strappy sandals? Are they too casual for the office? Or can they be dressed up to meet the demands of a business setting?
The answer, it turns out, is a bit of both. While strappy sandals are not typically considered appropriate for formal occasions, they can be a perfectly acceptable choice for more relaxed workplaces.
So whether you’re headed to a client meeting or just catching up on some paperwork at your desk, don’t be afraid to reach for your favorite pair of strappy sandals. Just be sure to save the stilettos for after hours.
What Heels Are Appropriate for Work?
No matter what type of workplace you have, though, there are always going to be some heel options that are more appropriate for work than others. So if you’re ever unsure about whether a certain pair of heels is appropriate for the office, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and dress conservatively.
When it comes to choosing the right heels for work, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Closed toe and low heels
First, consider the dress code of your workplace. If you work in a more formal setting, such as a law office or a financial institution, then it’s probably best to stick with closed-toe shoes and low heels.
2. Open toe shoes
If you work in a more relaxed environment, such as a creative agency or a start-up, then you might be able to get away with wearing open-toe shoes or higher heels.
3. Choose for comfortable shoes
If you’re constantly on your feet, then it’s important to choose comfortable shoes that won’t leave you with blisters at the end of the day. And if you’re sitting at a desk all day, then you might want to choose shoes that are stylish but won’t keep you from being able to walk around easily.
4. Avoid anything too flashy or sexy
Instead, opt for a classic pump in a neutral color. If your office has a more casual dress code, you can get away with a higher heel, but make sure it’s still professional. A nice pair of nude heels or black booties should do the trick. And if you’re really not sure what to wear, play it safe with a low-heeled black pump.
No matter what your office’s dress code may be, there’s always a heel that’s appropriate for work.
FAQs
Are heel shoes professional?
Open heel shoes can be professional depending on the workplace's dress code and industry norms.
Can you wear open toed heels to work?
While some workplaces may permit open-toed heels, others may have strict policies against them due to safety or dress code concerns.
Conclusion
Wearing strappy heels is up to you and your office dress code. If wearing strappy sandals is allowed, follow our tips to style them so they look professional.
And if you’re not sure whether a certain heel style is appropriate for work, err on the side of caution and go with something more traditional. With a little bit of effort, you can feel confident and stylish in any type of heel even strappy ones.
