The statement shoe

YOU ALREADY OWN: Black trousers UPGRADE THEM WITH: Statement shoes

BY ‘STATEMENT’, I mean shoes that proclaim a real go-for-it, spontaneous, must-have lust-worthiness, the very opposite of your well-honed wardrobe. Because this season fashion is fun and shoes are the new ‘it’ item, the instant upgraders and easiest outfit elevators.

The rule is to steer clear of anything you already own; black is out. I’m talking about personality and pizzazz. A shoe to take you out of your comfort zone. Obviously, you don’t want to go too mad in the shoe department if you’re going to work, so try a jeweltoned flat (embellished blue ballerinas, £95, uterque.com) or a slingback kitten heel (slingback shoes with beaded detail, right, £59.99, zara.com).

Equally acceptable for work is the backless slide or loafer in ballet-slipper satin or with detailed embroidery. But when it comes to going out, the sky’s the limit. Look for impressive embellishment — the odd spray of sequins, pearls or chunks of crystal.

Bows are a good thing. No, really — the bigger and floppier, the better. Your reliable black trousers, preferably straight-legged and cropped a couple of inches above the ankle to give your new shoes maximum exposure, will thank you for it. And remember, with shoes as bold as these, keep the rest of your look ultra-simple.