Shopping the best shoe brands that combine both comfort and style is no mean feat.
Footwear can make or break an outfit so you want to be sure you’re investing in a pair that is versatile, expresses your own style and won’t cause you to yelp in pain with every step.
Much like your best jeans, every capsule wardrobe should include a pair of shoes suitable for the different occasions in your life.
And, as Cinderella proved, a pair of shoes could even change your life.
Whether you’re after timeless trainers for running errands, the best sandals to take you from beach to bar or new season ankle boots that will kickstart your autumn wardrobe, shoes that you love will quickly become your best fashion friend.
There are lots of classics from brands you’re sure to know.
It’s hard to discuss trainers without mentioning Nike, for example, or stomper boots without highlighting Grenson, but there are also hordes of specialist footwear brands that deserve time in the spotlight.
Plus, all-round hero brands like Zara, Mango and H&M can never be ignored.
So put your best foot forward as our fashion experts have compiled a list of the best shoe brands for you to choose from.
Best shoe brands—according to our fashion editor
While trainers have stood the test of time when it comes to casual footwear, they have been having a serious fashion moment for the last few years. Since Phoebe Philo, the former creative director of designer brand Celine, stepped onto the catwalk in chic tailored clothing with a pair of Adidas Stan Smiths in 2015, trainers have been a wardrobe staple of the fashion elite. Try teaming sneakers with floaty frocks, jeans and slip skirts. There is no outfit that doesn’t ooze style prowess when worn with a pair of cool kicks.
TRAINERS–FASHION EDITOR'S PICKS
As the summer turns to autumn, attention moves to those must-have ankle boots that will become your most reliable purchase of the year. Whether you choose chunky stomper boots or dressy heels, there is rarely an occasion in the colder months where a pair of ankle boots won’t complete your look. Invest in a durable pair and they’ll see you sorted for years to come.
ANKLE BOOTS–FASHION EDITOR'S PICKS
Every wardrobe should include a pair of comfortable flat sandals that you can rely on when the heat picks up. Perfect for throwing on with a breezy summer dress or pair of bermuda shorts, your feet will thank you for popping it in an airy pair of strappy sandals. Tan and black will go with everything and don’t forget to treat your feet to a pedicure before wearing.
FLAT SANDALS–FASHION EDITOR'S PICKS
When it comes to garden parties and weddings, we can’t speak more highly of block heels. Providing height without sinking into the grass or hobbling in pain, the chunkier style of these heels will mean you can feel dressed-up all day. Sturdy enough so you can walk tall with confidence, block heels add definition to your legs, too.
BLOCK HEELS–FASHION EDITOR'S PICKS
Looking for a smart-casual hybrid? The search is over. A slip-on loafer has become a style staple of the preppy look. Seen on the feet of some of the world’s biggest style inspirations like Alexa Chung and Sienna Miller, the humble loafer holds serious style credentials. While the Gucci loafer might be the designer of choice among the fashion crowd, there are plenty of brands that emulate the look for a fraction of the eye-watering £500 price tag.
LOAFERS–FASHION EDITOR'S PICKS
Ballet pumps are making their way back to the forefront of footwear must-haves. Thanks to fashion house Chanel, the discreet flats burst into the wardrobes of celebrities as a chic alternative to heels in the 1980s and have been a firm fixture since. A key look when worn with skinny jeans to elongate legs, the style loved by fashion royalty Kate Moss is great for a fuss-free outfit. Plus, they are usually flat enough to stash in your bag for when your heels become too painful.
BALLET PUMPS–FASHION EDITOR'S PICKS
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