Shoes – let’s face it, many a strong woman’s downfall. Whether your particular fix is a sky-scraper heel for play or party, or a stylish flat to make modern work-life easier, the challenge is finding fashionability and affordability in relation to the, ahem, seriousness of your habit. Obviously in my position I see an entire spectrum of collections, from designer to high street and with the exception of the odd designer splurge, I prefer to invest wisely in shoes that I’ll be doing serious mileage in. There’s comfort of course, then on-trend style and finally, let’s not forget the all-important price tag. Imagine my joy when I found six great pairs of shoes in one place? There were others of course, LOTS of others, but for the purpose of this post I’ve edited down to six pairs that reflect the current trends and joyfully sing off the hymn sheet of all my criteria. The Place? M&S, yes the brand has really upped the ante with their footwear offering and if I tell you of the one’s that got away, there were a pair of Balmain inspired over-the-knee, khaki suede boots and a navy velvet, hi heeled be-bowed sandal, well, you’ll get the picture. It’s probably best I let the shoes do the talking…

 

Slipping into neutral gear; What to wear with the midi-length skirt? If you’re long of leg, a flat is just fine, but for those of us who need a little elevation, these M&S Collection grey suede, wrap-around boots £69; are the perfect go to, plus they offer that all important ankle support. Shown here with soft cashmere crew neck, £75, and the fast selling-out Autograph tan leather skirt,£199.

 

Molten metallics for daytime; want shoes that will dress up your casual wear? Look no further than these bronzed beauties from M&S Collection, £35. They’re fashionably fringed, have the so-on-trend chunky, block heels and are most definitely the designer-inspired must haves of the season. Shown worn with Per Una’s faux leopard print coat, £119, and turn-up jeans, £26.

 

Up close and personal…

 

Sports Luxe. If it’s comfort AND Style you’re after, test drive these really chic favourites of mine; the black patent Footglove slip on loafers,£45. They look great with layered neutrals and the stand out trim detail between the upper part of the shoe and the sole is a great way to pick out the classic camel of this Autograph coat,£69, worn with black polo neck,£17.50 and cream Autograph culottes,£59. Just add a classic modern tote for a look that means business.

 

Shiny shiny, shiny shoes of leather…

 

Autumn catwalk shoe inspiration – from vertiginous strappy heels to sporty flats and classic loafers with an embellished twist. Look out for detailed & block heels, shoes with socks (yes, you read it right); metallics, wrap and tie detail and plush velvets. (Images Vogue.com) 

 

And for something more sporty? These non-leather, felted M&S Collection trainers in soft grey,£29.50, are as modern with simple shift dresses as they are with denim or just worn slouchy and loose at home with chic M&S Collection printed bra,£16 and Autograph side striped trouser,£59.

 

Texture is key, look out for stitching details and chunky white soles.

 

Why have one when you can have two? Ankle straps that is. These bang on-trend double strapped Autograph heels,£49.50 are as haute worn when fully dressed as they are shown off a little sexily with these leopard print hi-waisted M&S Collection knickers,£15, and black polo neck,£17.50.

 

Standing tall, these duo-strapped heels are not only the comfortable, leg-lengthening option, they are also available in all the season’s key colours. Win Win.

 

A fine burgundy.

 

The heel has it; one of the major trends at the A/W shows were statement heels. We’re talking embellished, textured, tortoishelled, beaded – you name it. For a delightfully wearable option check out these M&S Collection faux-tortoiseshell-heeled, black ankle boots,£45 worn stunningly simple here with an Autograph cream shift dress,£69.

 

It may be a subtle detail, but this is the perfect way to nail the trend…

 

Fashion & Style Director Shelly Vella

Model Photographs William Garrett

Still life Photography Shelly Vella

Hair and Make up Karen Mason

Model Dominique Dunn at Established Models

Thank you to Karen & David Dalziel for allowing us to shoot in their beautiful home.