Good morning, cilly! As Will writes, some people wear athletic shoes because they offer support and room for the feet without squeezing them, especially when you wear thicker socks. These are my thoughts and experience.
When I began participating in a walking/running program, I went to an athletic shoe store which took a lot of time measuring my feet and considering how my feet hit the ground. You can't get this personal attention at a big box store. In any case, I bought a size 8 Nike (other brands are perfectly fine as well) even though I wear a 7 or 71/2 shoe because they said we need a size larger for these activities because our feet swell and we usually wear thicker socks with them.
So, I suggest looking for a larger size if necessary and a wider toe-box (the front part of the shoe where your toes are). Shoes that have pointy toes are not good for your feet and I would think are pretty uncomfortable. For casual shoes or even dress shoes, look for cushioning inside and rounder toe-boxes, and go shopping later in the afternoon because this is when our feet are wider.
It may take some looking at different stores to find something that works for you but be patient and make sure you wear the hose or socks you would be wearing with the shoes you buy. And don't buy shoes in the morning!
