KTAF NEWS

When I (begrudgingly) started venturing back out into the real world and coming back into the office, I struggled to find comfortable outfits that still made me feel put together. Quite frankly, I wasn’t used to wearing shoes. During the lockdown phase of the pandemic, I often did my workouts barefoot at home, relying on grippy socks to sound-proof my workouts to keep my downstairs neighbors happy. So when the Zoom calendar e-vites started turning into in-person invites, I figured it was time to upgrade my wardrobe. Eventually I started going back to the gym, found comfy shoes to aid my recovery, and was next determined to find the perfect pair of “going out” Sorel Sneakers  shoes that didn’t feel like going out shoes. Enter: Dr. Scholl’s Felicity Platform Dress Sandal.

I was familiar with the Dr. Scholl’s name and knew it was famous for its podiatrist-backed shoe inserts — but when a publicist representing the brand pitched me their offerings and mentioned that Jennifer Aniston and Sarah Jessica Parker were fans of the sandals, and Kate Hudson of the sneakers, I was curious. Stylish, sensible shoes that were celebrity-approved? Sign me up.

• How I tested: I wore them 2-3 times per week for 6 weeks.
• Perfect for: The person who equally loves comfort and style.
• What you’ll love: Dr. Scholl’s signature Insole Technology gives the shoe a cushion that’s *chef kiss* for all-day wear. The traction sole is a super close second — no slippage means it’s great for the person always on the go.
• Keep in mind: They aren’t scuff-proof (are any shoes? Someone please @ me!), but the faux wood pattern on the heel almost camouflages the marks.
• Sizing: I wear a 9 and it fits true to size.

About me: I enjoy long walks. No, really, I do. I will wake up extra early to avoid a cab fare and get some steps in, and thus it’s imperative I find a shoe that can keep up with me. On their first outing, I took the Felicity Platform Dress Sandals out for a 3-mile stroll from Midtown East to Bowery, Keen Shoes For Womenand honestly I felt like I was in my own Sex in the City episode (no wonder SJP has worn these!). I felt fabulous and my feet felt flawless; I had no blisters after I reached my destination. I then continued to wear them to the office and on my commute home, which resulted in a full 6-mile trial round. Since then, I’ve worn the supportive sandals to family functions, out on the town with my girlfriends, to date nights with my boyfriend, on walks with my boyfriend’s dog, and just about everywhere in between because they’re really easy to dress up or down.

Now, down to the details. First off, the shoe itself is retro, but classic. I have the honey leather color, which goes with just about anything. I’ve worn it with dress shorts, slacks, dresses, and skirts. I already mentioned the comfort, but this sustainable shoe has “anatomical cushioning,”Nobull Shoes according to the brand, and the design feels lightweight and non-clunky — so it moves with you and doesn’t feel like it’s weighing you down (because no one likes that dreaded heavy shoe feeling). Another under-the-radar feature that makes these heels a summer staple for me is the traction on the outsole. I’ve walked my boyfriend’s dog countless times in these, and when we’re crossing the street to make a light — or if I’m feeling playful enough to sprint down the road with her — my Felicity shoes have got my back.

I also appreciate that Dr. Scholl’s is keen on sustainability, as evidenced by the faux leather and faux wood material on the shoe and the brand’s promise to donate one tree to Trees for the Future with every purchase. Even the box the shoes came in is made with recyclable materials and soy-based inks. With summer just around the corner, I’ve got quite a few outdoor occasions I’ll be wearing these to — so I think I’m going to get the black pair, too, and donate another tree. Who’s with me?