In February, I gifted my older sister a lovely pair of velvet tasseled mules for her birthday, with a note wishing her a wonderful year of working from home. She’s new to the no-commute universe, and this felt like an exclusive token welcoming her to “the club.” Sort of our member’s jacket.

The truth is that even when you work from home, you need to be able to slip-on something easy to sign for the FedEx package, make a quick run to the store, my monthly girls’ lunch or to pick up the kids. I really can move so much faster with something on my feet.

I learned over two years ago that getting dressed and ready for the day is a key to my productivity. But how many of us are Instagramming with slippers under our desks? How much more powerful would you feel on your conference call if your ankles were crossed over sleek driving slippers? 

And by slippers, I mean — not slippers. House shoes. The chic beauties that are comfy enough to wear with pajamas and still presentable enough to run an errand. The perfect pair pairs as beautifully with soft lounge pants as it does with cropped jeans. They go with everything. And if you’re doing it right, this is the only footwear you’re packing for your cabin getaway.

Also — it’s officially too cold to wear sandals from dawn until dusk. (Did you even realize you were doing that until you had to wear them with socks?) Mid-October is a lovely time to shop for the well-shod alternative. And so I give you a guide to all of the slides, mules, moccasins, loafers, booties, clogs, and — yes, slippers (just don’t call them that!) that I’m loving right now. 

1. Look at Me Vegan Mule, $69.95
2. Faux-Fur Lined Driving Moccasins, $26.99
3. Birkenstock Zermatt Wool Clog, $100
4. Birdies The Starling, $95
5. J. Crew Velvet embroidered smoking loafers, $48.50
6. A New Day Rebe Faux Leather Fur Backless Mules, $24.99
7. Birdies The Starling, $95
8. Dolce Vita Gail Snake-Embossed Smoking Slippers, $122
9. M.Gemi The Calma, $95
10. Steve Madden Karisma Leopard, $82.95
11. Arosa Shearling Birkenstock Sandals, $165
12. Santimon Men’s Velvet Loafers, $59.99
13. Torrey Slipper Bootie, $54.95
14. L.L. Bean Mountain Slipper Boots, $64.99
15. Sorel Out ’N About™ Slide Slipper, $80
16. Ugg Classic Mini II Boot, $140
17. Faux-Fur Lined Driving Moccasins, $26.99
18. Everlane The Day Glove ReKnit, $98
19. Agodor Leather Slingback Mules with Faux Fur, $47.99
20. Beast Fashion Gem Suede Tassel Mules, $32.99