Ever found yourself in a fancy event, trying to rock those dress shoes, but all you got in return were sore feet and discomfort? We’ve been there too. Those rigid, unforgiving dress shoes often feel like they need breaking in forever. Let’s be real, finding truly comfortable dress shoes is like searching for a needle in a haystack. And if you’re dreaming of the comfort of barefoot shoes in a dressy style, the struggle can feel even more daunting. But fear not, because Shapen has got you covered, making some of the best barefoot dress shoes you can find on the market!
Getting to Know Shapen
Hailing from Slovakia, the Shapen brand is all about creating stylish barefoot shoes that are a cut above the rest. It all began in 2016 when Mia, the brains behind Shapen, decided to take on the challenge of launching her own brand of barefoot shoes. At the time, most barefoot footwear was primarily designed for sports and outdoor activities, leaving a void in the world of business-appropriate barefoot shoes.
Mia’s vision was clear: she aimed to bridge this gap and make barefoot shoes that not only felt great but looked as stylish as traditional shoes. With her keen sense of aesthetics, she set out to design a range of barefoot shoes that could rival any conventional footwear in the style department.
Shapen’s journey started with the introduction of the Tulip ballet flat, quickly followed by Ivy and Fleur. Over the years, they expanded their collection to include various sandal and ballet flat models in different widths. They didn’t stop there; Shapen ventured into creating fashionable barefoot sneakers for both men and women, as well as several trendy winter models. And here’s the exciting news – they’re gearing up to launch kids’ models too!
We’ve been with Shapen from the early days, watching Mia and her husband Marek grow their brand into a thriving success. We even had the fantastic opportunity to visit their store in Bratislava, and it was hands down one of the most enjoyable experiences we’ve had. Shapen isn’t just a brand; it’s a passion project that’s changing the game in the world of barefoot shoes.
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Shapen Sizing & Fit
Shapen shoes are available in sizes ranging from 35 to 47. However, it’s important to note that models designed exclusively for women are available up to size 44, while unisex models cover the entire size spectrum.
To make sure you get the perfect fit, Shapen provides detailed size charts on their website that align perfectly with the internal measurements of their shoes. Remember to always check the size chart specific to each model before making your order, and don’t forget to measure your feet.
When choosing closed-toe shoes, consider leaving about 12 mm of space in front of your toes. Sandals can allow for slightly less space (check the model descriptions for specifics), while winter wool-lined models might need even more room, especially if you plan to wear them with thicker socks or cozy toe socks.
Shapen’s models are well-suited for medium and wide feet, as well as those with average and high-volume foot needs. Most models can be adjusted to accommodate low-volume feet and even narrow feet, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of foot shapes and sizes.
Some Shapen models, such as Poppy and Tulip, come in two different widths, offering added flexibility to cater to various foot widths. Keep in mind that Shapen’s shoes in the smallest women’s sizes are designed for wider feet compared to the larger sizes, and some models can even accommodate well short, extra-wide feet.
The toe box in Shapen shoes is a standout feature, boasting a wide toe box with a gentle slope toward the pinky toe. This design is excellent for accommodating a variety of foot shapes without compromising on the essential space needed for your toes.
Shapen’s Shoe Lineup
Shapen Poppy
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When it comes to barefoot dress shoes, Poppy takes the crown for style, design, and overall elegance. These shoes are a head-turner with their sophisticated patent leather in the front and a chic open design complete with an ankle strap that keeps them securely on your feet. Even if you’re not a fan of wider shoes, you’d hardly notice it with Poppy’s clever design.
Poppy offers a range of leather colors, making them perfect for brides too. Plus, there’s a vegan option for those who prefer it. These are the shoes you won’t want to miss in your wardrobe if you’re all about blending fashion and comfort.
Sizing & Fit: Poppy comes in two different widths – WIDE and REGULAR. The WIDE version is a match made in heaven for wide feet with an average volume in the front part, while REGULAR suits those with narrower and medium-width feet. To give you a better idea, I’m wearing size 41 in the WIDE version, with foot dimensions of 26.3/10 cm. In a side-by-side comparison with size 42 REGULAR models, even though I sized up, the REGULAR feels too narrow for my feet. The WIDE model, on the other hand, hits the width sweet spot, with just a bit of visible gapping around the ball of the foot, which isn’t bothersome. However, if you have wide, shallow feet, you might find a bit of volume lacking in this area.
Poppy stays snug on your feet thanks to the ankle strap, ensuring a secure fit. While you can replace the strap with ankle decorations for a touch of style, it’s worth noting that flats may not stay as securely in place with decorative straps. So, we’d recommend sticking with the ankle strap for a reliable fit that won’t let you down.
Shapen FEELIN Chic and FEELIN Uni
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Shapen’s FEELIN Chic and FEELIN Uni sneakers add a vibrant splash of color, glitter and material choices to your footwear collection. These kicks offer a wide array of colors and materials to choose from. While the vegan options may be a tad less breathable than leather, they provide an affordable and eco-friendly alternative that doesn’t compromise on style.
The main distinction between Chic and Uni lies in their design. Chic, designed with women in mind, features extra decorative elements on the sides and heels, infusing a touch of elegance into your stride. In contrast, Uni goes for a clean and simple design that suits both men and women, making them a versatile choice for anyone.
Sizing & Fit: FEELIN Uni and Chic are an excellent fit for medium and wide feet, and the good news is they can adapt well to narrower feet too. The toe box is wonderfully wide and roomy, ensuring your toes have ample space to move freely. If you have low-volume or narrower feet, you might notice some creasing near the front part (just before the laces start), but rest assured, it won’t lead to any discomfort while you’re on the go. For reference, I’m wearing size 42 with foot dimensions of 26.3/10 cm.
Thanks to their soft sole and upper, these sneakers offer immediate comfort right out of the box. One tiny detail we observed is that the white leather tongue can feel a bit stiff at the start. It might take around three wears to soften up to the same level as other colors, but it’s a minor thing in the grand scheme of total comfort.
Shapen Berry
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The Berry shoes are crafted from premium suede leather and are offered in a delightful palette of four distinct colors (the pale pink version featured in the picture). These shoes exude a remarkable softness, both in their upper and sole, making your every step akin to walking on clouds. We are smitten with their gentle, minimalist design, leather laces that add a special touch, and their outstanding quality. There’s something truly special about discovering a pair of shoes so versatile that they seamlessly complement a wide range of outfits and can be worn throughout all seasons.
Sizing & Fit: The Berry shoes are most suitable for medium and wide feet with an average instep. If your feet tend to be on the narrower side, the laces can be a handy tool to secure them comfortably, although you might observe some creasing of the material near the front (we recommend the addition of insoles for an improved fit). For context, I wear size 42 with foot measurements of 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen LYNX
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LYNX is a brand-new lace-up winter boot that we immediately fell in love with! Crafted from hydrophobic nubuck leather in three distinct colors and lined with incredibly soft Merino wool, these boots offer a level of comfort that’s hard to match. In fact, we haven’t encountered such plush wool in any other barefoot shoes on the market. The top collar can be fold down for a more stylish look or unfolded to keep your calves warm when needed. The sole is soft and flexible, but it’s worth noting that it doesn’t have a very deep tread, so it may provide less traction in environments outside urban settings or on slippery and challenging terrain.
Sizing & Fit: LYNX is an excellent choice for individuals with wide feet, and they can be readily adjusted to accommodate narrower feet. These boots are versatile for various foot volumes and can be easily fine-tuned with the laces. I wear size 43, with foot measurements of 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen Cozy
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Cozy are warm, everyday winter barefoot combat boots available in several colors, with a new addition this year: a sleek black option. Crafted from hydrophobic nubuck leather, these boots are fully lined with wool for maximum warmth. A side zipper makes them incredibly easy to put on and take off, and you’ll likely need to adjust the laces only once.
Sizing & fit: Cozy is ideal for individuals with wide feet and average volume. They may feel more spacious if you have narrow, low-volume feet, but they are versatile enough to accommodate various foot volumes. In the case of skinny ankles and heels, you might notice a slight heel rise, which can be mitigated by adding thicker socks and adjusting the laces. For reference, I wear size 43 with foot dimensions measuring 26.3/10 cm, and the boots are 17 mm longer than my feet.
Shapen URBANEER
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Urbaneer is a new combat boot from Shapen, resembling their Cozy boots but exuding a sportier vibe. It’s made from hydrophobic leather and comes with thicker round laces in contrast to Cozy, giving Urbaneer a sportier appearance. An interesting feature distinguishing it is the elastic collar at the top, a characteristic absent in Cozy boots. Despite lacking a zipper like the Cozy, putting them on is effortless. The boots are lined with very soft and cozy wool. This brown pair boasts a white wool lining we find of higher quality compared to other colors. The wool’s thickness in this model is greater than in the Cozy. They feel incredibly soft and light when worn.
Sizing & Fit: Urbaneer has a similar fit to other Shapen models. They suit medium and wide feet, with an average foot volume and normal heels and ankles. However, for those with low-volume feet and skinny ankles, the heel might not be entirely secure. In such cases, adding an extra insole and using thicker socks may alleviate this issue. I’m wearing size 43, with foot dimensions of 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen DIVINE
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Divine is an elegant Chelsea boot designed in smooth leather and available in three different stylish colors. These boots are lined with ‘Microline’ material, ensuring excellent moisture absorption. Chic ankle straps elevate their appearance, adding to their stylish and distinctive look. The combination of soft leather, a flexible sole, and a lightweight design makes them exceptionally comfortable to wear.
Sizing & Fit: Divine is the ideal option for individuals with wide feet, an average foot volume, and average ankle and heel widths. However, if you have low-volume or narrow feet, these boots may not be the best fit for you. Should you experience any heel slippage, adding extra insoles, as I did, can help enhance the fit. The ankle straps offer minimal adjustment but primarily serve decorative purposes. We also recommend using additional insoles during the winter season, as these shoes may not provide sufficient warmth in the coldest months. For your reference, I wear size 42, which is 12 mm longer than my foot, and my foot measurements are 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen FLUFFY
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Fluffy is a delightful new winter bootie that brings to mind the popular UGG boots, now reimagined in a barefoot edition. This model features a convenient side zipper that ensures a snug fit, even for those with slimmer ankles. Crafted from suede in the upper and lined with soft and cozy faux fur, these boots offer a comforting embrace. However, one minor issue with the fur is that it can feel slightly slippery. In the future, it would be wonderful to see them use sheepskin or wool, similar to the LYNX model, for an even more luxurious feel.
Sizing & Fit: Fluffy is ideally suited for medium and wide feet, with the flexibility to be adjusted to accommodate narrower feet as well. These boots provide a secure fit around the ankles, making them perfect for those with skinny or average ankles. If you have wide or thick ankles, they may not be the most suitable choice. For reference, I wear size 43, which has an internal length of 27.7 cm, and my foot measurements are 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen Glam
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Glam comprises elegant knee-high boots available in vegan or leather editions. The top strap is adjustable, allowing you to modify the circumference to your liking. However, it’s worth noting that with skinny calves, the material might fold excessively, which isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing look. The ankle strap is removable, offering the option to change the boots’ appearance, but putting them on using the ankle strap may take a bit more time.
Sizing & fit: Glam is an excellent choice for those with wide feet and average foot volume. However, they may not be the best fit for individuals with low-volume or narrow feet. Additionally, these boots are better suited for wider calves (please refer to their size chart for precise measurements), and they may not be ideal for those with skinny calves, like in my case.
Shapen FROSTY
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Frosty is a new snow boot from Shapen. The upper is crafted from a combination of leather and nylon materials with adjustable straps that help secure them comfortably on your feet. The interior is lined with faux fur, though it may not provide the same level of warmth as genuine wool. The sole is thin and flexible, but it lacks deep lugs, which means it might not offer the same level of traction as barefoot snow boots with deeper lugs. Given that this is a new model this year, we’ll keep you updated on how they perform in the snow. Looking ahead to next year, it would be great to see them equipped with an even warmer lining and a sole with enhanced grip, making them suitable for more severe winter conditions.
Sizing & Fit: These boots are most suitable for medium and wide feet with low to average instep height. If you have a higher instep, you might find them a bit challenging to put on. For those with low-volume feet experiencing some heel rise, consider using thicker socks or leg warmers for a better fit.
Shapen Ivy
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The Ivy is a stylish winter Chelsea boot, and it stands out as one of the most elegant barefoot Chelsea boots available. Its smooth leather in black or brown, decorative side zipper, and stylish pull loop make it a perfect choice for pairing with skirts or dresses, business suits, or simply for everyday wear when you want to exude chic and style. They are lined with felt, but for extra warmth during winter, we recommend adding wool insoles.
Sizing & Fit: These boots are well-suited for medium and wide feet and cater to those with less volume in the midfoot, along with average ankles and heels. They hold my feet snugly, even though there’s space around the ankles, as the midfoot fits tightly. I’m wearing size 43 in this model, with foot dimensions measuring 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen Fleur 2.0
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The Fleur is a versatile year-round shoe that’s particularly well-suited for professional attire, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking stylish barefoot shoes to complement their business suits. This dressy and sophisticated appearance is achieved through the use of thin, round laces and a combination of smooth and patent leather.
Sizing & Fit: These shoes are a great match for medium and wide feet with average volume. It’s important to note that the heel collar may feel slightly firm initially, so we recommend wearing them with socks in the beginning until the heel cup softens a bit. For reference, I wear size 42 with foot dimensions measuring 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen Lily 2.0
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The Lily 2.0 sandals are a delightful choice for women looking for a dressy open-toe option. The patent leather combined with the overall design exudes an air of elegance and chic style, providing a perfect alternative to high heels. These sandals are so stunning that they could even serve as wedding shoes.
Sizing & Fit: The Lily sandals are best suited for wide feet with an average foot volume. Please note that the front strap is not adjustable, so ensure that the sandal’s circumference matches your foot well. While the ankle strap can be replaced with decorative ankle decorations, be aware that this may make it harder to secure the sandals on your feet, so we don’t recommend making that change. For reference, I wear size 42 with foot dimensions measuring 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen Tulip 3.0
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The Tulip ballet flats are another delightful offering from Shapen, available in two different widths. The upper is expertly crafted from leather and is available in a range of stunning colors, including metallic options. These flats can be worn with or without a strap around the ankle, and you have the option to accessorize them with bows and flowers, which can be purchased separately.
They come equipped with an ankle strap, but it’s worth noting that the strap is longer, so if you have skinny ankles, you’ll need to shorten it. However, the elasticated trim ensures that the ballerinas stay securely in place, even if you choose not to use the ankle strap. The Tulip 3.0 stands out as one of the few ballet flats that, despite providing generous toe space, manages to stay firmly on the foot.
Sizing & Fit: Tulip accommodates different foot widths effectively, so just be sure to select the right width. The ‘regular’ width is best suited for narrow and medium-width feet and ‘wide’ to medium and wide feet. It’s noteworthy that the wide version provides a more secure fit for skinny ankles and heels, whereas the regular width may require the use of the ankle strap to stay in place on the feet. It’s possible that this may vary by pair, as the elastic trim appears looser on our pink pair, which is a ‘regular’ width.
For reference, I’m wearing size 42, which provides an extra 17 mm of length compared to my foot size. This additional space is beneficial as minimal foot slippage is nearly unavoidable in barefoot ballet flats, and it ensures there’s ample room in front of the toes, with generous space above the toes as well.
Shapen Daisy 2.0
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The Daisy sandals are available in various metallic colors and are constructed from a blend of smooth leather and synthetic material. Notably, the synthetic shiny material may be more prone to wear and can show fingerprints more visibly. The strap around the ankles is longer, allowing you to wrap it around your ankle twice. However, individuals with narrow heels may observe that the side straps fit less snugly at the heel.
Sizing & Fit: These sandals are well-suited for wider feet, with smaller sizes being suitable for wider feet compared to the larger sizes. However, it’s important to note that some width is lost as the sandals taper more quickly toward the big toe. The circumference over the toes can be effectively adjusted with a velcro strap. To ensure a secure fit, the velcro strap needs to be tightened more firmly, as it may not fully grip the foot around the ankle. The toe strap may initially feel somewhat stiff but tends to soften with use. For reference, I’m wearing a size 41, with foot measurements of 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen Mai 2.0
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The Mai sandals are designed in the style of elegant ‘flip-flops’, but in a barefoot version that allows the heel to be fixed. The front straps are shaped in the form of a heart, which is then extended into a symmetrically shaped heel strap. The strap layout also makes them very quick to put on.
Sizing & Fit: The sandals are suitable for wide, average volume feet (smaller sizes are suitable for wider feet than bigger sizes) and have the same toe box shape as the Daisy model. The material between the toes may feel a little firm at first, but becomes softer with use. The sole is thin and has a thin foam material embedded in the top layer to add minimal cushioning as you walk. I wear a Mai size 41, with foot dimensions 26.3/10 cm.
Shapen Calla
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The Calla sandals are available in a variety of stylish colors that complement dresses, skirts, and even jeans. The leather is exceptionally soft and provides a comfortable feel for your feet.
Sizing & Fit: It’s important to note that the Calla follows a different size chart than the Mai and Daisy models. This change is particularly noticeable in larger women’s sizes, while in smaller sizes, there’s minimal to no change in width, making the sandals still suitable for wide feet. In the larger sizes, they are better suited for slightly narrower feet compared to models like Mai and Daisy, catering to medium-wide and medium-width feet. There’s some narrowing towards the big toe, which may affect width.
The front strap is non-adjustable, so the sandals must fit properly in circumference. Ensure that the strap isn’t too tight or too loose. Secure fixation is achieved through straps that run across the midfoot and around the ankle. Since the strap isn’t precisely positioned in the ankle crease, there may be minimal forward slippage while walking. After trying both sizes, 41 and 42, I ultimately chose size 42 as it offered more space for my feet while walking. If you find yourself between two sizes, opting for a bit more space is advisable to ensure a comfortable fit.
Shapen Jasmine
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Jasmine is one of the most elegant sandals from Shapen and a personal favorite of mine. These sandals come in various colors, and the photo features the captivating rose gold shade. In this color, both the toe strap and heel strap are adorned, while the strap across the toe complements the ensemble in matching beige. The leather is remarkably soft, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious feel when worn.
Sizing & Fit: The front strap isn’t adjustable, so it’s important that its circumference fits you well. The length of the strap is ideal for my foot circumference (24 cm, size 41). However, Jasmine may not be the best fit for those with narrow, low-volume feet or those seeking ample width and volume. In my experience, wearing a size 41 in the Jasmine (which is 7 mm longer than my foot) provides an excellent fit. The strap around the ankle and instep secures the foot effectively, leaving ample room in front of the toes to keep all my toes comfortably on the sole while walking.
Shapen Accessories
All Shapen shoes offer the opportunity for personalization and individual style through their range of accessories. Bags and shoe embellishments, including charming flowers and bows, are available as separate purchases. What’s truly delightful is that these accessories come in colors that beautifully match the hues of their respective shoes. This way, you can effortlessly create your own unique and perfect look.
Where to Buy Shapen Shoes
You can purchase Shapen products on their official website, which offers worldwide shipping. Do note that they don’t accept returns for orders outside the EU. Shapen shoes are also available at local retailers, though their stock, colors, and models may be limited.
Don’t forget to use our exclusive discount code BOSENOGICE5 for a 5% discount on all shoes and accessories, valid only on the official website.
Conclusion: Shapen Barefoot Shoes – Where Comfort Meets Style
When it comes to combining style and comfort, Shapen barefoot shoes deliver. Whether it’s for work or special occasions, these shoes keep you looking stylish without sacrificing comfort. With various widths and stylish accessories, Shapen offers a complete package for those seeking elegance and ease in their footwear. It’s a win-win for your feet and your fashion!
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