WOMEN are suckers for shoes - whether stilettos or ballet pumps - one can never have enough.

Finding the perfect pair requires not only an eye for beauty and detail but the feel good factor. It should make any woman feel haughty and put a spring on her step.

Shopping for the perfect shoe should therefore never be taken lightly.

Shoes should never make one feel like they are walking on hot coals or broken glass. They should not only complement your outfit but also the shape of your feet and parts of your body that you wish to play down or accentuate.

Take your time when trying out a new pair. Walk around the shop a few times to get a feeling of how comfortable the shoes are.

Few people can stand tight, uncomfortable shoes. Buying a tight-fitting pair hoping it will stretch with wear and time may bring pain, regret.

Ideally, the shoes should give you enough room to wiggle your toes and the length of the heel should not induce vertigo.

Quality will withstand most punishing situations such as rain and walking on gravel.

If your leather shoes get wet, dry them with a towel and put a newspaper inside to retain the shape.