On a quest for dance-able dress heels

So, every year I attend a evening semi-formal dance that goes for 4-6 hours and involves dancing/standing for most of that time. I found a dress that I love (pic #1), but I'm having a really hard time finding shoes. In previous years I've worn now-discarded black strappy sandals with a 2" heel and horribly-uncomfortable (as I discovered last year) black 2" patent pumps. I do have higher 3" wedges that are reasonably comfortable, although not all-day.

Given this opportunity to buy a new pair of shoes, I'd like to invest in shoes that are both correctly sized and comfortable. I wear a size 5 or 35, with medium-width feet leaning wider in the forefoot and narrow in the heels, so correct sizing is not always easy to find. I've also never found a single pair of pumps that are comfortable, because even a size 5 will squeeze my toes and slip off my heels.

That's the backstory... now for my inquiry. What do you think of these three shoe options? I'd prefer black or something neutral that works in winter with tights (I'm not opposed to wearing tights with open-toe shoes). Are any of these shoes dressy enough for an event where most people will be wearing sparkly cocktail (short) dresses, when matched with a retro cotton dress?

Alternatively, I'm totally open to entertaining suggestions if none of these options are perfect! Size 5 with some sort of strap and not running narrow in the toebox, under $200 (preferably $150 or $100).

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13 years ago

krishnidoux

Veteran

I would go for #3. The heel is not too high which the ball of your foot will love, and they are delicate enough to go with the dress.

shiny

With that adorable dress, I'd go with ballet flats and not think twice. Metallic, red, cobalt, black would work. Ballet flats would be thoroughly comfortable and totally work with that dress. However, you'd probably want to go without tights. Is it going to be too cold for that? If you are dancing up a storm, do you really want tights? Will they be too hot?

Or, do you find you dance better in heels? (I do. Weird, but true). If that is the case, it's all about the shape of the last. That is what makes one shoe 5-6 hour danceable, and another one not. I can only tell you that I wear size 6, sounds like our feet are shaped somewhat similar, and my most danceable strappy heels are all Via Spiga, around 2-1/2 inches in height (I can't do that brand any taller than that). But it's very much a personal thing -- what works for me may not work for you.

ElleH

I love Shiny's idea of ballet flats because they fit with the vibe of that dress but if you prefer a heel with tights I like the idea of a mary jane with that dress. Out of the 3 you posted I prefer the first one.

Also Nordstrom is the best place to buy shoes because you can return worn shoes. I have only done this once I think. I'm not into abusing it, I just have fussy feet & like the option because it takes wearing them first to know sometimes. You could just try wearing them around the house though if you buy them elsewhere. That reminds me I have a pair from Nordstrom that are not comfortable but I have had them too long now...over a year, sigh...

moira

http://www.danceshoes4u.com/4040GO.htm

Maybe you will see something here that you like.

Sara L.

I like options 2 and 3. For some reason, I don't particularly care for the last shoe. I hope you find something that works!

Raisin

Well I think ballet flats could be good too...but if you prefer heels, I love the first shoes! And a wedge is always more comfortable for heels.

siniestra

Active Member

3# looks good

Keix

Thanks everyone for all of your input!

Shiny - I'm only 5'2" and all of the other girls will be wearing at least a low heel, including those who are taller than me--so I'd prefer at least a 1.5-2" heel. I'll check out Via Spiga, thank you!

I can't go without tights though! At the least I'd wear pantyhose. The event is in early December, in the Philly area, and I run cold.

cjh

(website)

Keep looking... none of these say semi-formal party to me. All are nice, though the last one looks more casual and also higher than the first 2.

How about something like this? I can't wear pumps either, but sling backs seem to work for me.

http://www.zappos.com/j-renee-accent-black-satin\

They even come in red! Pretty...

cjh - Thanks for the tip! I'd like an adjustable slingback strap and a bit higher heel than 1.5", but inspired by you, I found a pair by the same brand (J. Renee) at Nordstrom which meets both of those criteria. I have had good experiences ordering and returning online with Nordstrom so I may just give them a shot.

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