Business casual dress codes can feel like decoding a secret language, especially when it comes to footwear. Somewhere between formal heels and casual sneakers lies a gray area: are open-toed shoes business casual? Or, phrased another way, are open-toe shoes business casual enough for your office? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—it depends on your workplace, your role, and how you style them.

Let’s break down what’s appropriate, what to consider, and which styles make the cut so you can wear open-toed shoes confidently.

Defining Business Casual in Today’s Workplace

Before we tackle open-toed styles, it helps to understand what “business casual” really means. At its core, it’s a balance: professional enough for client meetings, but comfortable enough for everyday work. Think tailored dress pants with a soft sweater, or a midi dress paired with sleek heels.

The exact definition, however, shifts from one company to another. Some offices lean closer to formal attire, where closed-toe shoes are the norm. Others embrace a more relaxed environment, where polished sandals or dressy flats are acceptable—especially in warmer times of the year.

If you’re unsure, check your company’s dress code or pay attention to what other people in similar roles wear.

Are Open-Toed Shoes Acceptable?

The short answer: it depends. In many modern workplaces, you can wear open-toed shoes to work, as long as they’re professional in appearance and match the rest of your outfit. That means skipping flip-flops or overly casual styles, and opting instead for heels, wedges, or polished sandals with structured designs.

Industry Standards and Workplace Culture

In creative fields or relaxed settings, open-toed shoes are often more acceptable—you might even see them paired with jeans on casual Fridays. In finance, law, or other conservative industries, closed-toe shoes are still the safer choice.

Workplace culture matters, too. Even if your job doesn’t explicitly ban them, open-toe styles should be clean, well-maintained, and appropriate for the setting. Pedicures aren’t a requirement, but neat, groomed feet are always a best practice.

Professional Open-Toed Styles That Work

If your office gives the green light, certain open-toed options strike the right professional balance. The key is choosing footwear with structure, a refined style, and quality materials that hold their shape and finish throughout the day. Below are some standout options that fit seamlessly into a business casual wardrobe.

• Block heel sandals
  The Zinfandel Block Heel Sandal offers a blend of elegance and stability that makes it a favorite for work days and beyond. The block heel provides secure footing, which is especially useful when moving between office spaces or commuting. Pair it with a tailored dress or cropped trousers for a look that’s appropriate yet modern, ensuring your open-toed shoes feel deliberate and polished rather than overly casual.
• Heeled mules
  Sleek and easy to wear, heeled mules bridge the gap between casual and professional. Their slip-on design adds convenience without sacrificing style, making them ideal for those mornings when you’re short on time but still want to look put-together. Choose a pair in neutral shades for versatility, or go for a muted jewel tone to add subtle personality to your outfit.
• Wedge heels
  Great for women who want height without sacrificing comfort, wedge heels distribute weight evenly to reduce strain on your feet during long work days. They pair beautifully with midi skirts, wide-leg trousers, and dress pants, adapting to different office environments with ease. Browse our Women’s heels and wedges for options that combine the supportive structure you need with the stylish details you want.
• Strappy dress sandals
  The Chardonnay Heeled Sandal blends sophistication with all-day comfort—a combination that’s hard to beat in professional settings. Its minimalist straps keep the look refined, while the cushioned insole supports your feet from the first meeting to the last email. Ideal for warm-weather office days or events where your business casual attire could use a touch of lightness.

For more pairing inspiration, see our blog on what color shoes to wear with a black dress or what goes with beige shoes.

Styling Tips to Keep It Polished

Are open-toed shoes business casual? It all comes down to styling. Here’s how to make sure your open-toed shoes work in a professional setting:

1. Pair with tailored clothing

Structured pieces like blazers, midi skirts, or ankle-length trousers instantly elevate open-toed styles. The clean lines of tailored clothing balance the relaxed feel of an open toe, making your whole look feel intentional. This pairing also signals to your workplace that you’ve put thought into your outfit, even when your footwear is more relaxed.

2. Keep it clean and simple

Avoid overly embellished or overly casual sandals that can pull your look into weekend territory. Sleek lines, minimalist straps, and neutral colors work best for maintaining a professional image. Think timeless rather than trendy so your shoes fit seamlessly into a business casual wardrobe.

3. Mind your proportions

If your sandals show more toe or have an open vamp, balance them with more coverage on top, like a long-sleeve blouse, sweater, or structured jacket. This contrast helps keep your overall appearance polished and office-ready. The goal is to maintain a balanced look that’s as suitable for a client meeting as it is for a post-work dinner.

4. Choose the right heel height

Mid-height heels are a safe and versatile option for most offices, offering just enough lift to elongate your legs without sacrificing comfort. Extremely high stilettos can read more formal or evening-ready, which might not be the right vibe for a work setting. Instead, choose heels that you can wear from your desk to after-hours without a change of shoes.

5. Match your accessories

Coordinating your bag, belt, or jewelry with your footwear creates a cohesive, put-together look. This small styling practice can make even sandals feel more elevated and intentional. Opting for accessories with similar tones or finishes can tie your outfit together, making your shoes feel like a natural part of the ensemble.

Want more seasonal style advice? Our shoe trends for fall post is full of ideas that transition seamlessly from day to night.

Polished and Professional—Even with Open Toes

Can I wear open-toed shoes to work? In many cases, yes—provided they’re professional, well-kept, and fit your office’s dress code. From chic heels to structured sandals, there are plenty of business casual shoe options that blend style, comfort, and workplace-appropriate polish.

When in doubt, look for footwear with a tailored fit, quality materials, and a design that complements your outfit. With the right pair, you’ll feel confident walking into any workplace—open toes and all. Plus, Vionic shoes feature Vio Motion™ technology, offering superior arch support and cushioning to keep you comfortable all day long. Ready to find your perfect professional pair? Shop Vionic for shoes that balance fashion, comfort, and modern business casual appeal.