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The 50 Best Shoes

1 Prada

Some of the best sandals around this summer are by the mighty Italian brand. This pair have a German-tourist feel to them, but are made from luxurious brown patent leather. For a totally authentic look,wear with socks%u2026

Where: Prada (020-7647 5000)

How much: £280

 

 

2. Miu Mi
Pink satin and shiny gold ankle ties – these are what little girls’ shoe dreams are made of. The curved heel and rounded toe make them feminine, but still dead sexy.
Where: Miu Miu (020-7409 0900)
How much:
£230

 

 

3. Tetron
Tetron first produced these cream tennis shoes way back in 1956. They hark back to the true spirit of the game when doubles on a friend’s lawn, washed down with a jug of Pimm’s, was the norm.
Where: Size (020-7287 4016)
How much: £50

 

 

4. Pretty Ballerina
This company have been making pumps since 1918, so they know everything there is to know about flat shoes. Check the website for their many styles and colours and their new bespoke service.
Where: Pretty Ballerina (020-7493 3957; www.prettyballerinas.com)
How much: £89

 

 

5. Dunhill
Dunhill are the experts in quality leather goods and here’s a pair of classic lace-ups to prove it. With brown leather uppers, the contrasting blue laces add a quirky edge to a traditional gentleman’s shoe.
Where: www.dunhill.com
How much: £305

 

 

6. Topshop
You might have trouble balancing on the sand on these thick-soled espadrilles from Topshop, but they will look simply fantastic while sipping cocktails at the bar on holiday. A must-buy for any wedge-lover.
Where: www.topshop.com
How much: £65

 

 

7. Kickers
This is a classic deck shoe from Kickers made from white leather and blue leather detailing. It’s a classic summer shoe, which looks best with shorts and a tan.
Where: www.kickers.co.uk
How much: £75

 

 

8. Gap
From its new Design Editions collection, Gap brings us these limited edition, ankle-strap sandals in denim. If denim isn’t for you, though, they have plain leather versions available too.
Where: Gap (0800 427789)
How much: £35

 

 

10. Yves Saint Laurent
Want to know what’s the star shoe of the season? Well it’s right here, the Tribute sandal, by Yves Saint Laurent. Seen lately at all the red-carpet events, this is the shoe for any girl wanting to make an impact.
Where: Yves Saint Laurent (020-7235 6706)
How much: £400

 

 

9. Marks and Spencer
If you want to buy an affordable pair of brogues, then M&S steps right up to the challenge. You can’t go wrong with these traditional shoes for under £50.
Where: www.marksandspencer.com
How much: £49.50

 

 

11. He by Mango
Mango womenswear has long been established on the UK high street, and now the Spanish brand has launched a men’s collection, He by Mango. This pair of leather and canvas sandals show that the Mango collection is going to be a serious contender on the high street.
Where: Mango (020-7434 3694)
How much: £35

 

 

12. Jaeger
The combination of rope and leather on these sandals from Jaeger gives them an exotic feel. Plus, they are ideal if you want comfy sandals without a toe-thong.
Where: Jaeger (0845 051 0063; www. jaeger.co.uk)
How much: £90

 

 

13. Albam
This black leather pair of deck shoes by Albam are well-made, with cream topstitching and awhite plastic sole. Utterly authentic, these shoes would fit both a sailing and an urban environment.
Where: www.albamclothing.com
How much: £135

 

 

14. Marc by Marc Jacobs
The iconic Marc Jacobs mouse pump has been re-fashioned in as a “Jelly” shoe for this season.Adefinite must-have for any fashionable beach babe.
Where: www.net-a-porter.com
How much: £85  

 

 

15. Raf by Raf Simons
These boots by the Belgian avant-garde designer are a fresh take on the baseball boot. What makes them particularly unusual is the nylon finish, and the rather subdued shade of cream. It’s this attention to detail that makes them stand out from other contenders.
Where: Kurt Geiger (0845 257 2571)
How much: £100

 

 

16. Rocha.John Rocha
For his collection for Debenhams, John Rocha has designed these knotted-strapmaterial covered heels. With their metallic sheen and platform sole they will look perfect with a summer mini-dress.
Where: Rocha (08445 616161)
How much: £55

 

 

17. Shofolk
This is a cool variation on the desert boot from the label Shofolk. The company make this style season after season, but update them each time with new colours.
Where: www.folkclothing.com
How much: £120

 

 

18. Boden
A classic wedge from a classic label. Boden never lets us down with supplying ourwardrobe staples, and these comfy, cork-black, suede wedges are sure to become your new best friend.
Where: Boden (0845 677 5000)
How much: £79

 

 

19. Versace
If you fancy something a little more subtle when it comes to brogues, this pair of navy blue leather shoes from Versace are perfect. The detailing is understated, whispering luxury.
Where: Versace (020-7259 5700)
How much: £285

 

 

20. Topman
If you want your feet to be shod in a more gladiatorial style this summer, then you should snap up this pair of sandals from Topman. Roman toga optional.
Where: www.topman.com
How much: £30
 

 

 

21. Kurt Geiger
Wooden cube beads decorate the T-bar of these shoes from Kurt Geiger, and the grey and white patent make a refreshing colour combination. The high-cone shaped heel makes them even more original.
Where: Kurt Geiger (0845 257 2571)
How much: £160

 

 

22. Salvador Sapena
Animal-print lovers will snap up these great little leopard-printed and pony-skin sandals. They fit in perfectly with this season’s safari trend.
Where: www.asos.com
How much: £139

 

 

23. YMC
YMC was launched in 1995 and promised to provide wearable and distinctive clothes for men, which it has continued to do. Even its footwear is special – this navy, leather specimen is a cool hybrid combination of classic loafer and deck shoe, with its white, plastic sole.
Where: www.asos.com
How much: £120

 

 

24. Steve Madden
These inexpensive, snake-effect pumps have a slightly square toe. Lightweight, they are perfect for popping in your handbag when heels get the better of you.
Where: www.soletrader.co.uk
How much: £17 

 

 

25. New Balance
If you want your footwear to be retro but up-to-date then plump for this pair of trainers from New Balance. With a design taken from the archives, they are made from nylon with suede trim and are silver grey with green neon.
Where: www.asos.com
How much:
£45

 

 

 26. Hobbs
 Hobbs has a wonderful selection of shoes in its collection and these are my favourite ones. The vivid green suede is extremely soft and cut out into a T-bar style. These are the perfect heel for anyone who puts comfort first.
Where: Hobbs (020-7586 5550)
How much:
£129

 

 

27 Marks and Spencer
 If you like a combination between a shoe and a boot then buy this black leather pair from M&S. A collaboration between the high-street giant and shoe designers Mark Jeffery and Guy West, they are great value for money.
 Where: www.marksandspencer.com
 How much: £6

 

 

28 Clarks
 Clarks is renowned for its sensible shoes, but its fashion-led collections are great, too. These sling-backs have impressive attention to detail in the lime, yellow and cream straps.
Where: Clarks (08444 777744; www.clarks.com)
How much: £39.99

 

 

 29. Clarks
 If you think that a brogue is a little too stuffy for you, then maybe this pair of shoes from Clarks will float your boat. It’s a desert boot (very outdoors!), but with brogue-style detailing. Perfect.
 Where: www.clarksoriginals.com
 How much:
£75

 

 

 

 30. Aldo
 These sexy, putty-coloured patent slingbacks from Aldo are well made and are surprisingly comfortable, due to the platform sole. However, the best thing about them is surely the price.
Where: Aldo (020-7836 7692)
How much: £70

 

 

 

 31. Marni
 These black leather men’s sandals from the Italian label Marni fit in with the hippie vibe that is synonymous with the Italian label. An understated choice for summer.
 Where: Marni (www.marni.com)
 How much: £180

 

 

32. Christian Louboutin
 Shoe designer of the moment Christian Louboutin has created these fabulous flats, which come in white, gold and lime. You will then get the joy of giving everyone a flash of that renowned shocking-red sole.
 Where: Christian Louboutin (020-7245 6510)
 How much: £460

 

 

33. Topman
 The penny loafer should be a staple for every man’s shoe collection and this burgundy pair from Topman are an affordable addition.
 Where: www.topman.com
 How much: £30

 

 

34. Balenciaga
 Nicolas Ghesquiere doesn’t just design gravity-defying footwear, he also creates sensible flats for Balenciaga. These bright orange pumps have been given the designer touch with woven leather and tassels.
 Where: www.matchesfashion.com
 How much: £370

 

 

35. Adidas
 Aclassic trainer should always be part of your summer shoe collection and this lace-up from Adidas – first launched at the 1972 Olympics – is a case in point.
 Where: Adidas @ JD (www.jdsports.co.uk)
 How much: £55

 

 

36. Bertie
With the Seventies being a huge trend for this season and the next, these red suede shoes would be a wise buy. The platform soles, peep toes and chunky heels gives them the perfect retro styling.
Where: Bertie (01865 881986)
How much: £80

 

 

37. Nicole Farhi
The leather is supple and the fabric straps let your feet move, making these the most comfortable sandals you are ever likely towear. These toffee-coloured wedges are true to Nicole Farhi’s grown-up signature style.
Where: Nicole Farhi (020-7499 8368)
How much: £259

 

 

38. Timberland Boot Company
For the summer, Timberland Boot Company has designed shoes that are lightweight and versatile. This pair is made from brushed Italian waxed canvas, and with brown leather detailing, each pair is unique.
Where: Timberland Boot Company (www.timberlandbootcompany. com)
How much: £140 

 

 

39. Paul Smith
These are the real deal when it comes to brogues – and the fantastic thing about this pair from Paul Smith is that they’re suitable for any occasion – you can wear them with a suit or with jeans.
Where: Paul Smith Shoes (www.paulsmith.co.uk)
How much:£220 

 

 

40. Chanel
Chanel devotees will love these shocking red patent sandals.With square heels, gold chain straps and the obligatory double C logo, they ooze the label’s charm.
Where: Chanel (020-7493 5040)
How much: £370 

 

 

41. Paul Smith
These brown sandals from Paul Smith keep the toes enclosed while letting them breathe through the lattice leather design. Ideal for the hot summer months – and stylish, too.
Where: www.paulsmith.co.uk
How much: £130 

 

 

42. Betty Jackson
These clumpy, wooden-soled sandals from Betty Jackson may not be the most elegant of shoes, but they are refreshingly different. The straps are patent leather and come in lemon and peach.
Where: Betty Jackson (020-7589 7884)
How much: £216

 

 

43. Prada
With attention to detail always the key for Prada, the intricate stitching along the side of this loafer is set off by the vivid racing- green colour. Sophisticated chaps will wear them without socks.
Where: Prada (020-7647 5000)
How much: £275

 

 

44. Chloé
The Chloé moccasin is a staple in the French fashion house’s collections. This season the comfy shoe is available in red leather, with a shiny patent buckle.
Where: www.brownsfashion.com
How much: £270

 

 

45. The All Star Converse
The All Star Converse was first launched way back in 1917 and is still a firm favourite from indie bands to old-skool dads. Over time it’s been made in every possible colour and design – including this black with white dot.
Where: Converse @ JD (www.jdsports.co.uk)
How much: £39.99 

 

 

46. Paco Gil
These ladylike heels would fit in perfectly at any summer event, be it the polo, a day at the races or a summer wedding. The lime-green leather is finished with a natural ribbon bow and would brighten up any light-coloured outfit.
Where: Paco Gil (020-8360 4488)
How much: £160

 

 

47. Cos
These grey lace-up shoes are plain and straight to the point. Cos is known for its strong and edgy high-street designs, and the quality of these shoes show that its footwear is no exception.
Where: www.cosstores.com
How much: £69

 

 

48. LK Bennett
If you like to make a statement with your footwear, you should certainly be investing in these wonderful wedges from LK Bennett. These steep pink shoes will make your entrance for you.
Where: LK Bennett (0844 581 5881)
How much: £299

 

 

49. ncd
Brogues by their very nature are usually quite classic in colour, so this pair from ncd are a welcome change. They won’t stay clean for very long, but, actually, these handmade shoes will start to look better with age.
Where: ncd (020-7221 0255)
How much: £280

 

 

50. Comptoir des Cotonniers
I love the sleekness of these elephant-grey shoes from the French label Comptior des Cotonniers. All fastenings are replaced by elastic, so they are easy to slip on and the heel is a respectable height.
Where: Comptoir des Cotonniers (020-7792 9580)
How much: £150 

 

 

31 May 2008, Chosen by Lee Holmes and Gemma Hayward