Shoes are an integral part of a woman's wardrobe. They add colour to her wardrobe and her persona. No wonder then, that this must-have accessory has become a status symbol for the modern woman.
What was manufactured as a protective gear for the delicate feet has now become a global fashion statement. The female footwear industry has emancipated with the advent of the modern woman for whom 'new is now'.
Shoe designers and manufacturers alike have been constantly trying to innovate their products to embellish the feet of women. However, a female shoe offers not only protection to her very special feet but also serves different purposes that can be understood specifically only by the fairer of the species. Shoe designers love and labour hard while designing shoes for women as they know that almost all women adore shoes. The oomph factor of the latest styles in female footwear is appreciated and enjoyed by both the wearer and the beholder.
What's hot?Shoes for the fairer sex come in all styles, shapes and colours and women seem to have affinity for all of them. Therefore, whenever a new pair of a shoe is seen on the shelf, she has a deep desire to posses it. However, one never knows what a woman may wear at an outing. At times, a strap laden sandal is out of place, or too dressy for her to carry. If it is an early dinner, company meeting, or a memorial service, usually a low heeled, comfortable black pump is vital. Since, much of our clothing has a nostalgic flavour; it is only natural that shoes should complement the dress.

Boots have become popular once again. Various types of stylish and comfortable boots are available in the market. Knee high, Mid-calf, and ankle high boots with low to medium heels are in vogue.
For a real trendy touch, pick up a pair of ankle boots with high, stacked heels. Pair them with boot-cut pants or jeans, or push the limit by wearing them with a miniskirt or cropped pants. The trendiest boots right now are knee-high and have a round toe, cone-shaped or stacked heel, which makes them very comfortable and easy to wear.
Pair these boots with knee-length skirts to have a more rugged feel. You can also try these with knee-length work skirts, denim skirts, long skirts, and even tucked under pants or jeans. However, avoid wearing with pencil skirts, as this will upset the proportion. Try leather boots in colours such as brown burnished leather, charcoal black, beige and camel brown. Using a fashion item in multiple colours gives more flexibility to coordinate and spice up the wardrobe.
Some handy tips for shoe shopping:
- Always go for shoe shopping in the afternoon or evening since the feet expand during this time due to physical pressure and temperature.
- Wear your socks when trying out various styles at the shoes store. Your toe must have enough space to twist. Your heel must not slip in and out of the shoe.
- Assess your wardrobe, lifestyle, and personality while shopping for shoes. Select the colours of the shoes, which gel well with all your dresses.
- Buy shoes with moderate and not gaudy embellishment such as buckles, gems, brooches, buttons and bows. Avoid shoes with oversized logos, labels and other trademarks.
- If you do not like sky-high heels then choose low heels, chunky heels, wedge heels or kitten heels.
- Do not go for a brand or designer label unless the shoes are extremely comfortable and you love the way they look. Ill-fitting shoes can cause corns, calluses and blisters and even lead to foot, heel problems.