I Walked Blister-Free for 12 Hours Straight in These Block Heel Sandals

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Here at T&C, we pride ourselves on our discerning eye for quality. With Tried & True, our editors will give you an inside look at the pieces they simply cannot live without.

They say the key to a killer Kentucky Derby outfit comes down to the fascinator and dress. But as someone who's gone to the big horse racing event two times, I can confirm it's actually the shoes. It's an action-packed weekend of wagering, drinking and cheering, and you're going to be on your feet a lot—so a comfortable pair of heels is crucial.

Two years ago I wore the Margaux City Sandals, which I called "the most comfortable heels for walking around all day." Don't get me wrong, I still stand by that statement and wear mine frequently in the warmer months, but my look for this year's 150th run called for a different pair as complement. T&C's Deputy Digital Lifestyle Director Roxanne Adamiyatt recommended I check out Alexandre Birman. She said the brand's heels are so comfortable and always earn her compliments, and that was enough to sell me.

I ended up going with the Clarita Block Sandals for the Derby last weekend, and they are hands down, one of the most comfortable high heels I have ever worn. I was on my feet for an average of 12 hours over the course of two days and able to walk around Churchill Downs without many blisters at all. I'll admit that around the end of each day, my feet were starting to feel it a bit—but what do you expect when you're wearing 3.6-inch heels all day? Compared to other block heels I've tried over the years, the Claritas are truly a pleasure.

Comfort aside, they look so elegant on the feet. Instead of the typical buckle often seen on block heels, the Clarita sandals have wrap-around straps that are meant to be tied into dainty bows. The shoe itself is subtle, but it certainly won't go unnoticed. Roxanne wasn't lying when she said she always gets compliments. Several people stopped me to comment on the shoes and ask where they're from... which only makes me more excited to wear them for all the upcoming summer weddings on my calendar.

All of which to say, if you want a pair of high heels that are equal parts comfy and cute, Alexandre Birman's Claritas are ones to not overlook.

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