The Fine Art of Shoe Shopping

Everyone knows how to shop for shoes right? Well, not necessarily - the process of walking into the shop, trying on the first pair that catch your eye, and walking out, new purchase swinging from your hands, often ends in heartbreak when we first take them out on that new outing. All too often, those new shoes pinch, or are unbearable after only 5 minutes walking in them. Why if we're such great shoe shoppers, is this a common experience? Here are a few tips to help prevent those all too familiar refund trips:

- Go late in the day. It's a good idea to go shoe shopping after lunch, when feet have slightly swollen. This way, you'll be trying on shoes whilst your feet are at their biggest, ensuring you get the right size. There's nothing more disappointing than getting a pair of shoes home to find that whilst they fit perfectly in the shop, they feel too small at home.

- If buying for a particular occasion, try to take the outfit you'll be wearing with you so that you can make sure the two are compatible. If that's not possible then at least make sure that what you're wearing to shop is somewhat related to the outfit - i.e. wear a skirt or dress if you know that's what you'll be wearing on the day.

- If unsure about size, try on the next closest size. It's better if they do half sizes but even if you have to go a whole size up or down remember you can always buy insoles to get a better fit.

- If you're worried about pinching, check out what material the upper (the part of the shoe which covers your foot) is made of. Generally suede will stretch most easily with repeated wears and leather will also stretch unless it's patent. Other materials such as those that are man-made usually don't have as much give and will keep their shape better.

- Those looking for comfort should go for rubber or leather soles over man made because man made soles are usually more rigid, meaning your foot will be unable to bend naturally as you walk. Rubber soles have the added advantage of cushioning your foot more so that you don't feel every cobble and stone.

- Shop around and try lots of shoes - often you can find the same styles at different retailers for different prices. New Look have a great range of shoes to suit every style and price point – take a look at their website.