Stay on your toes

Sculptural, sparkly or downright sensible – there's a shoe to suit every taste this season, says Gemma Hayward, so put your best foot forward

Flats

The horizontal sole is comfortably holding its own among the towering heels this season. The trend for ballet pumps hasn't wavered – just make sure you choose metallic or acid colours. Even further down the cosy footwear chart we have the slipper-shoe, which should be suitably opulent, embellished or patterned – just make sure the sole is up to outdoor use.

Mannish

Sparkles and sequins bring you out in a cold sweat? The sight of pink leaves you sheltering under the nearest black overcoat? Then rest assured you can step into a pair of boy shoes. Loafers, brogues and Oxfords will add the finishing touch to your monochrome attire. But if that's all too manly for you, simply add a heel.

Boots

It's rare to find a pair of boots for all your winter needs – a walk in the country requires a different type of boot to one you can wear for after-work drinks. But leave the outdoor pursuits to wellies and have some fun. Glamour- seekers should go for gold; traditionalists for suede and wood; and, if it has to be black, the key is in the quirky details.

Glitter

Never has the term "twinkle toes" been so apt. This season, as long as your party shoes have a hint of sparkle – and that can be in one of many guises: print, sequins, beads, glitter and reflective metallic – the shoe is on the right foot.

Modern

Simplicity prevails in this modernist micro-trend, but that doesn't mean anything dull. Wedges are given a sculptural makeover with interesting, sharp lines and vivid colours which make for a futurist silhouette.