Hot to trot

They’re beneath us but they’re not beneath fashion. We take a look at the season’s key trends for feet.

Stuck in a wardrobe rut? Take the shortcut to trend town with a pair (or three) of the season’s chicest kicks.

From comfy flats for day to statement-making high heels, these are the shoes to choose this summer...

FRILLED SANDALS

Frilly but not too fussy – that’s the sandal mantra right now. So think stilettos in punchy hues or metallics, paired with tough-girl ripped jeans and the latest Nineties revival, the ‘going out top’. Extra points if you can work a bit of tulle or velvet into the mix.

– New Look silver frill strap heeled sandals, £14.

– V by Very Gisele asymmetric frill heeled pink sandals, £32.

NEXT-LEVEL TRAINERS

The humble white trainer gets a makeover this summer with floral prints, embroidery and all kinds of embellishment turning this daywear staple from boring to bling.

A pair of pimped-up kicks updates a simple jeans-and-bardot-top combo, or punctuates an all-black-everything ensemble.

– Jones Bootmaker gemini white trainers, £47.

– M&S Collection lace-up star trainers with Insolia Flex, £29.50.

FAIRYTALE HEELS

Minimalist mules, move over – right now it’s all about ornate princess shoes with opulent detailing. If they look like they could have fallen off Cinderella’s foot at midnight, you’re on the right track.

You’d needn’t reserve these beauts for balls, however. Wear metallic mules with a pleated midi skirt and cropped tee for daytime princess vibes.

– Dune delights Champagne mules, £95.

– Hobbs Ophelia gold mules, £65.

SPORTY SANDALS

Like the pool sliders trend but want a bit of lift? These chunky sandals are for you. Cool and comfy but not so massive they veer into Spice Girls territory, they’ll become your holiday staples.

– La Redoute Mademoiselle R nude platform sandals, £23.40.

– Dune Kassius silver sandals, £80.

BACK DETAILING

While mules may be having a moment, elsewhere embellishment is focused firmly on the backs of shoes, with frills and florals making a strong case for court shoes and strappy sandals. Liven up a much-loved LBD with a pair of these statement stilettos.

– Topshop rosebud applique stiletto sandals, £46.

– Dorothy Perkins Gia pink ruffle back court shoes, £30.

– Office hibiscus silver sandals with cherries, £60.

Clockwise from bottom left: Jones Bootmaker Gemini white trainers; M&S Collection lace-up star trainers with Insolia Flex; Dune delights Champagne mules; Office hibiscus silver sandals with cherries; Hobbs Ophelia gold mules; V by Very Gisele...