I think Sharan makes a really great point. I do not have PF or other diagnosed foot issues, but I do notice that my feet are fussier as I get older for sure. And one thing I know without question is that for me, a change really IS a rest. Wearing the same shoe all the time is a killer for me, especially if I am on my feet a lot and walking. That is why I have such a heavy suitcase!

It's so interesting how different people's needs are, too. I have never needed arch "support," exactly -- but I want the arch to be in the right place. And when it isn't, it drives me bonkers. I just won't buy a shoe if the arch doesn't feel right to me.

This is one reason that flats rarely work for me. The other being that I fly out of them and have to work so hard with my toes to stay in.

Shannon, do you know what type of shoe you are hoping for? I mean, in an ideal world it would be fashionable and not frumpy, obviously. But do you have certain colours in mind? And should it be a full shoe or is a sling back okay, or what are some of the other parameters? This is for workdays, right? I think you are probably pretty well covered for weekends?

Naot shoes can accommodate orthotics, but it's hit-and-miss. I wore a pair of Naot Oxfords for years that were great, but the Mary Janes left my toes cramped.
I have the same issues as you (worse bunions), and have had PF. I would recommend Alegria, although be forewarned that the extremely low volume feet might not work. The shoes are stable, great for bunion and PF, and an array of other foot problems.
Now, the look....well, it takes some adjustment. They are not flattering, but might be considered funky. Nurses will give you oodles of compliments, but that's because they understand.
With Alegria, I don't wear orthotics, but I do wear Correct Toes. They would be by go-to shoes everyday, if my feet had more volume under the Mary Jane strap.

Hear hear. Shoes form such a major part of my outfit too that I almost feel your pain. I really really hope you find something that you love and still feel comfortable wearing it.

No advices here ... just sending you a little YLF fairy dust x

I have horrible feet. Super fussy. Wide front, high arch and narrow heel. Pretty much everything gives me blisters. And we're talking deep, takes weeks to heal blisters that happen very very quickly.

I ordered the first two in January when I was in the US and I've just ordered the last two (the first two are so comfy, I am gambling on the last two fitting as it's not worth sending them back from here...).

I am so in love with the Veras (1 & 2), especially the tan colour - goes with everything, gives me hight and kind of cushy... Apparently the sole has memory foam or some such thing.

I'm hoping 3 will be as comfy as it appears to have the same sole. And the reviews for 4 are amazing, so I have high hopes for them too. I know they will make my legs look shorter and wider, but at this point, I don't care, as long as they don't hurt me and are kind of cool!

I have a couple of pairs of Finches from bared.com.au, but they run a little narrow for me in the front and I had to stretch them (I own a shoe stretcher - I have no choice!).

Shannon: I had a huge flare of PF last summer --- on my trip, no less. I did some research, and found a European study that suggested the use of one exercise every day --- I can't find the study (it was a big, respected study), but I found this article. The "weight load" exercise is the one I do. It is really hard at first -- I do it on a stair, with a railing, in case I need a little help. I got relief incredibly quickly, and I've kept it in my regimen. Just an FYI, use it if it helps, ditch it if it doesn't!

Oops -- forgot the link: http://blogs.bmj.com/bjsm/2014.....-rathleff/