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Life in high heels would be divine and pain-free if everyone got free rides everywhere like Mariah Carey. But until you win the lottery and find a manservant to handle all your transportation needs, you’ll have to walk in those five-inch stilettos. Have fun with the blisters and blinding numbness in your toes! Not a masochist? Thankfully, there are so many good flat options these days, like cool sneakers, easy loafers, or pretty ballerinas. And if you want just a tiny lift, there are plenty of stylish low-heeled styles that feature sturdy, walking-friendly block heels. So don’t be a miserable sucker, and read ahead for 13 chic pairs at every budget.
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The trick to finding inexpensive shoes that look like they cost a ton more? Find one with a cool finish, like this blue-metallic, faux leather style.
ASOS Space pointed heels, $66 at ASOS
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Mules are great for the summer — they’re basically glorified house slippers that are appropriate for the outdoors. Try a rich mustard color instead of neutrals with a white dress.
Mango destructured leather sandals, $69.99 at Mango
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Wear these with destroyed jeans, rolled up to reveal plenty of ankle.
Zara high-heel slingbacks, $89.90 at Zara
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One of the big street-style trends this season is great ankle boots paired with cropped jeans. This suede style is an easy way to try the trend without investing too much.
Thelma suede ankle boots, $98 at Urban Outfitters
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Into the over-the-top maximalism moment happening? Take these loafers, add the loudest floral blouse and printed pants you can find, and you’re good to go.
Topshop Kave block-heel loafers, $100 at Topshop
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If you’re looking for a classic shoe, this black style is a good basic to have in your closet. You can wear it to the office with a sheath dress or with jeans and a sweater on the weekends.
Massimo Dutti block heels, $120 at Massimo Dutti
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At London Fashion Week, Toga showed amazing, glittery silver boots. Those are sadly not available yet, but this is a satisfying compromise.
& Other Stories silver ankle boots, $195 at & Other Stories
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Once the weather warms up all you have to do is add a pretty pedicure to these sandals. But if you’re looking to get a bit weird, they’d be cool worn with a pair of sparkly socks right now.
Tory Burch Palermo two-band sandals, $325 at Tory Burch
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The real highlight of these sandals is the unusual, sculptural heel, should you want a pair of shoes that stand out from the rest of your closet.
Opening Ceremony Elzpeth swirl-heel sandals, $375 at Shopbop
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Try it with black tights and a short, A-line skirt for a fun night out.
Marc Jacobs Cheryl sandals, $398 at Shopbop
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From the oversized buckle to the crinkle heel, these are definitely special shoes worth the splurge.
Acne Studios Olej heels, $660 at Forward
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They’re pink, sparkly, and happy. No shame in just browsing.
Miu Miu crystal-embellished patent-leather Mary Jane pumps, $990 at Net-a-Porter
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Can Gucci do anything wrong? No. These pearl-studded heels are already a big street-style favorite and will likely sell out, so if you want them, don’t hesitate.
Gucci leather mid-heel loafers, $1,100 at Gucci