Getting ready for your interview and not sure what shoes to wear? Don’t worry, you’ve arrived at the right place. We know that most of you try to prepare well before an interview. While you’re searching the internet for common interview questions and what to wear to the interview, do some research on the company as well. Since you’re thinking about shoes right now, try to see how formal your company’s workplace is.

If you’re applying for a corporate job, the dress code will almost certainly be formal, whereas most other professions will need business casual attire. Even if your workplace is extremely casual, it is still preferable to dress up rather than down. Why? During an interview, an interviewer or hiring manager looks at more than a work applicant’s history and communication skills.

As a result, employers expect candidates to present themselves in their best during interviews as part of their interviewing process. This usually means that they expect applicants to dress professionally, such as in suit pants or dress sets. And your shoes should match your outfit in terms of color and design.

We agree that job interviews are a stressful experience. There are several elements to pay attention to with a variety of things to plan and various material to memorize. What you wear to a job interview, on the other hand, will make or break if you get a job offer.

What Kind of Shoes Should a Woman Wear to an Interview?

The shoes you wear should match the dress code of the organization for which you’re interviewing. So let’s see what shoes will help you to get through.

Heels

So, ladies, what should you look for in a job interview heel? We think that the most important thing is that you are comfortable wearing job interview footwear. A comfortable shoe means a more assured stride. You don’t want to appear unsteady and shaky on your feet at the interview, do you? Dr. Torres-Hodges, Podiatry Specialist in Pensacola, FL, recommends choosing heels that are two inches or less in height to avoid putting too much pressure on the feet.

Dress heels are the most suitable footwear for workplace interviews. They give the best look for professional roles and paired with business casual clothing to dress it up a little. So, if you are comfortable in heels and want to wear them to your interview, the best option is a closed-toe shoe with a low to mid-height heel around 2-4 inches.

After all, Stephen Hartman, a chiropodist and the chief executive officer of the Canadian Federation of Podiatric Medicine, recommends looking for heels with proper lift, shock absorbers and arch support, and says firmly: ‘A two-inch heel is okay in moderation, for one day a week or a special event.’

Let’s revisit the interview situation.The hiring manager will want to give you a walk of their office after your interview, so try to ensure you’re comfortable walking in the shoes you’ve chosen.

Consider the following factors when selecting a pair of pumps.

  • The best shoes for an interview are those that come in solid color. (no neon and glittery ones) You want the interviewer to concentrate on you, not your shoes, so avoid prints and bling as well.
  • Try to go for block heels rather than thin heels. Because they provide better weight distribution and stability.
  • Colors such as black, white, gray, navy blue, and khaki create a professional appearance while remaining unobtrusive.
  • Choose pumps with a heel height of less than 4 inches. Since the heel is higher, more pressure is put on the ball of the foot.
  • If you want to wear heels but aren’t sure if stilettos are right for you, go for a chunkier heel.
  • Choose a heel that does not have a platform.

Having a pair or two of professional shoes in the back of your closet is never a bad idea. even if you work in a casual setting, don’t have any upcoming interviews, or aren’t in a college that needs lots of presentations, this pair will always be an essential type of shoes to have.

Interview Shoes | Try These Heels for Your Next Interview!

So, here are some of the best heels you could wear to an interview. So, why not try one of them out for your big day, or get some ideas?

  1. Nine West Women’s Flax Dress Pump
  2. Naturalizer Women’s Anna Pumps
  3. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Luvly Low Heel Pump
  4. Clarks Women’s Linvale Jerica Pump
  5. LifeStride Women’s Parigi Pump
  6. Vionic Women’s Amor Mariana Ladies Pump
  7. Rockport Women’s Total Motion Pointy Pump

Now, let’s know some of their best features.

1. Nine West Women’s Flax Dress Pump

This Nine West Women’s Flax Dress Pump got a style that is delicate and timeless, with a heel that you’ll reach for in years to come.

  • Uppers are available in different materials including synthetic and leather.
  • Soles are made of synthetic materials.
  • Heel height is approximately 3.5″.
  • Features Man-made footbed with a light cushion.
  • Heel comes with a stiletto design.

2. Naturalizer Women’s Anna Pumps

Not sure which heels to wear on your big day? This pair promises to complete any look, and few luxury shoe brands are as well-known as these.

  • Upper is made of leather, suede, or fabric while soles are made of synthetic material.
  • The heel is approximately 3.25″.
  • Features Contour+ technology which is an innovative cushioning system that has been crafted to meet every contour of your foot for a luxury fit and all-day comfort.
  • The outsole is non-slip.

3. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Luvly Low Heel Pump

This mid-height heel is classy and stylish, and it will easily take you from your interview to your office cabin, giving you the impression that one of the most comfortable work heels exists.

  • The heel is approximately 2.5 inches high.
  • Have a classic round-toe and scooped vamp design.
  • The outsole is made of TPR, which allows for easy movement.
  • For added comfort, the insole is padded with latex.
  • There are many different colors to choose from.

4. Clarks Women’s Linvale Jerica Pump

This Clarks Women’s Linvale Jerica Pump adds a modern look while also providing more comfort than a first peek would suggest.

  • Features synthetic sole.
  • Heel height of 2.2 inches.
  • Features OrthoLite footbed.
  • Comes with Cushion Soft technology.

5. LifeStride Women’s Parigi Pump

These are the heels to get if you’re looking to invest in one pair of classic and comfortable heels (and not just for your interview).

  • Upper in faux leather or fabric in a classic dress style.
  • All-day support, flex, and cushioning are provided by the Soft System Comfort Package.
  • The traction sole adds extra stability.
  • The heel height is just right at 2.625 inches.

6. Vionic Women’s Amor Mariana – Ladies Pump Heel with Concealed Orthotic Arch Support

Your soles will thank you for choosing these heels, which have a super-soft pump and an attention-grabbing style, for a trendy take without having to spend a lot of money.

  • The heel is approximately 3 inches in height.
  • Features leather and suede upper, injected insole, and breathable man-made sock.

“I’m SO excited about these shoes! Finally, a pretty shoe that supports my arch well and is very well made! I love the look — very nice leather, nice heel and nice height, professional and pretty. These shoes are perfect for more dressy occasions, as well as, for work! They’re amazingly comfortable! I want a pair in every color. I wish they made them in gray and navy! Well done, Vionic!” – Happy customer on Amazon

7. Rockport Women’s Total Motion Pointy Pump

Ready to try these classic silhouette that makes these heels easy to pair with any work outfit?

  • Footbed is cushioned, with extra padding at the heel and forefoot.
  • Combined with the truTECH and truTECH+ lightweight comfort systems, which provide shock absorption at the heel.
  • Soft uppers for a glove-like fit.
  • Adidas’ adiprene® for all-day comfort.

Flats

Heels are popular because of their figure-lengthening properties and the variety of styles and colors available. Flats, on the other hand, can be just as trendy if you know how to wear them correctly. So, if you are wondering whether it is compulsory to wear heels to an interview, the answer is NO. In reality, you’d be better off wearing flats in most cases because they’re more comfortable and allow you to walk more comfortably, which is particularly important if you’re nervous about the interview.

  • Opt for a good pair of flats with closed toes and backs for a more formal appearance.
  • A flat made of suede, leather, or pleather is a good option.
  • If possible, pick a shoe with a solid color.
  • Make sure they’re clean, in good condition, and professional.
  • Cotton flats should not be worn to an interview.

Interview Shoes | Try These Flats for Your Next Interview!

Due to the large number of ladies flat shoes on the market, finding one that is suitable for an interview can be difficult. There is no need to be worried. We’ve mentioned a couple of the best options to consider.

  1. Ataiwee Women’s Ballet Flats – Soft Pointed Toe Suede Classic Flat Shoes
  2. Amazon Essentials Women’s Pointed-Toe Ballet Flat
  3. Clarks Women’s Gracelin Lola Ballet Flat
  4. Clarks Women’s Juliet Palm Loafer
  5. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Casual Pointed Toe Ballet
  6. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Sole-Happy Ballerina Walking Flats Shoes

Now, let’s get into the details!

1. Ataiwee Women’s Ballet Flats – Soft Pointed Toe Suede Classic Flat Shoes

Flats influenced by the ballet will always hold a special place in shoe collections in the fashion world.

  • Soft leather construction, a versatile TPR outsole, and a lightweight and comfortable design.
  • Also on slippery surfaces and uneven ground, the anti-slip outsole provides excellent grip.
  • Throughout the design, man-made materials are used.
  • The heel is about 0.25 inches high.

2. Amazon Essentials Women’s Pointed-Toe Ballet Flat

The ballet flat has a centuries-long tradition, so it will undoubtedly be in style next year and the year after that! So you don’t have to worry about owning a pair for yourself.

  • Features a pointed toe shape and a flattering profile.
  • TPR outsole with minimalist heel and traction grip forepart is ultra-flexible, lightweight, and robust.
  • For ultimate cushioning and comfort, a padded insole with 8mm high-quality memory foam is used.

3. Clarks Women’s Gracelin Lola Ballet Flat

The Clarks Collection’s Gracelin Lola is a stylish ballet flat for all seasons.

  • The upper is made of a smooth leather and synthetic material.
  • A feminine round toe is featured.
  • A long-lasting TR outsole with traction and stability.

“Functional, well made, extremely comfortable. I am very happy with my purchase.
I’ve worn them daily to work (11+ hours a day) since they arrived (lightning fast, within 36h, thank you Amazon), with absolutely no issues.” – Happy customer on Amazon

4. Clarks Women’s Juliet Palm Loafer

Loafers are a fine flat shoe for an interview because they are perfect all year. Go for a classic loafer like Clarks Women’s Juliet Palm Loafer here.

  • The upper is made of rich full grain leather.
  • Heel is slightly stacked.
  • Its rubber outsole allows it to be worn all day.
  • Cushion Soft padding and an OrthoLite footbed keep bare feet dry and comfortable.

5. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Casual Pointed Toe Ballet

Similar to pumps, choosing a pair with the right toe shape, such as pointed toe flats, will elongate your figure when worn with a knee-length skirt, for example.

  • The heel height is around 0.15 inches.
  • Rubber outsole that is extremely versatile.
  • For maximum comfort, the lining is ultra-soft.
  • Features a premium latex cushioned footbed.

6. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Sole-Happy Ballerina Walking Flats Shoes

You can use this pair again after walking to the interview with them. If you fly often for business or walk to work, your feet will feel secure and comfortable in these shoes, and you won’t need to bring another pair with you to change into once you arrive.

  • The heel height is roughly 0.15 inches.
  • TPR sole is ultra-flexible and provides excellent grip and traction.
  • It can be folded and stored easily.
  • The elasticized topline helps you to adjust the fit of the shoes on your feet.
  • The soft lining and latex cushioned footbed provide the protection and comfort your feet need.

Note: Please order a half size larger than your normal size.

What Shoes Should You Not Wear to an Interview?

Open-Toed

Open toe sandals are the perfect style of shoes to wear in the summer because they are simple and easy to breathe. But open-toed shoes are considered to be inappropriate for a business-casual environment.

These types of shoes may be appropriate office attire in some places, especially in tropical climates. But when dressing for an interview, it’s best to avoid these types of shoes unless you know the company’s dress code.

Sandals

Sandals are open-toed shoes with straps. Whether it’s two strap sandals, T-bar sandals, or buckle strap sandals, strappy and open shoes could be in violation of a company’s dress code. So they’re better avoided for an interview.

In certain places, sandals are appropriate office footwear; however, we recommend erring on the side of caution and opting for a more formal pair of shoes.

Sneakers

In a business casual setting, athletic shoes can be appropriate office footwear, but an interview is a more formal situation. Ditch your sneakers unless you’re applying for a creative job. Although it will seem trendy and exclusive wearing sneakers with the suit, it will not help you in excelling in an interview. When you show up for a work interview in sneakers, it just seems childish and like you’re trying too hard. If you want to be comfortable, go for flats rather than sneakers.

Flip-Flops

There isn’t much of a reason to explain these. Flip-flops, the most practical pair of shoes any woman should buy, are perfect everyday sandals with a flat sole.

If you’re going to the beach or pool this summer, these are the shoes to pack in your beach bag. But flip-flops are not appropriate shoes for a work interview, which is unfortunate for beach lovers everywhere.

Tips

Some job candidates dress in the same clothes and shoes that employees do on the job. But we advise you to dress conservatively unless told otherwise if you’re interviewing in an industry where employees usually wear casual footwear, such as retail, fast food, or building.

If you’re unsure what to wear, ask the boss or a trusted mentor or professional contact working in the industry.

You can wear shoes with a color or a mild pattern if your outfit is neutral. But, if your top already has any patterns, go for more plain shoes.

Bring work shoes with you if you think the interviewer may ask you to demonstrate your skills during the interview – for example, in construction.

The state of your shoes is just as critical as the style you choose. Before choosing a new pair if the tops, toe-caps, heels, or outsoles appear visibly worn, or hiring a cobbler to fix them try some DIY shoe repair tips and tricks to save some money.

After you’ve chosen your interview shoes, pick your socks or stockings with caution. You may already know that an outfit that is mismatched, dirty, or slouching makes a poor first impression.

Additionally, choose socks with elastic to keep them from drooping as you walk. Look the socks for dirt, holes, lint, and loose strings, then replace, clean, or fix them as required.

Shoes to Wear to Interview | Conclusion

One of the many things that reflect your viability as a candidate is how you dress for an interview. You have a chance to impress the recruiting team by dressing well and demonstrating that you know how to look professional. It shows that you’ve done your homework and understand the company’s standards, as well as demonstrating that you’ll get along with your future coworkers. So, watch your shoes, because everyone notices them. Make sure your shoes are professional, sharp, and in good shape because they are the final touch that seals the deal.

To conclude, always complete your interview outfit with footwear that follows the dress code. However, the aim of an interview is for you and the company to determine whether or not you will be a good fit in their organization. So if you feel comfortable in flats rather than heels, just feel free to wear it! Regardless of the dress code, a simple “golden rule” you can follow is to make sure the footwear is clean and in good shape. If you buy new shoes for your job interview, make sure you break them in first. These will not only prevent blisters, but it will also help you walk more easily and ensure that the bottoms of your shoes are not slippery.

“The right shoe can make everything different.” – Jimmy Choo