Actually, the Cool Commuter Shoe Does Exist

Ah, the dreaded “commuter shoe.” Isn’t there something particularly unappealing about shoes that aren’t even meant to see the inside of your office? They’re built exclusively for getting you there, often through the grime of New York subways and sidewalks. Melanie Griffith in Working Girl, wearing her Reeboks with a skirt suit, may flash through your memory—though, as luck would have it, that look is feeling fresh again, in an ironic, anti-corporate way, of course.

For proof, look no further than the street-style stars we’ve seen in New York, Paris, Tbilisi, and beyond this season. Not only are they wearing “commuter shoes” to the shows, but they’re wearing them, well, on purpose, knowing they will be photographed. It makes the notion of changing into stilettos at the office feel a little outdated, in fact. Pulling off the look—whether you intend to swap shoes or not!—mostly comes down to some clever juxtaposition: Team a slinky dress with leather low-tops, for instance, or pair an army-green suit with chunky black sneakers for a modern twist on office style.

Below, shop 11 slip-ons, foam-sole sneakers, and more “commuter shoes” that are so cool you may even look forward to your morning journey.