I like a 2" or lower block heel, or a platform/ flatform, which isn't really a heel, but which does give a lift and even out proportions. Between 1 and 2 inches is my sweet spot for comfort -- a complete flat without a substantial sole can be very painful for me. I do wear sneakers now (which are pretty much flat) but I have to wear a Superfeet insole to make them work for me.
For brands -- definitely find the ones that work for your foot. We are all different! The comfort brands can be better bets, but not always and not every shoe.
Like Lisa, I like Ecco. I also wear La Canadienne very well, but they are so expensive. Another brand that can work for me -- or be awful for me, depending -- is Naturalizer. Eileen Fisher can be good.
