I dont believe there should be such a thing as a work shoe! Think about it why should there have to be a particular style, colour or design that only suits work. The work shoe is a look that has been created by office professionals, companies and society. Its a shoe that fits into an image and that image is plain, dark and not at all flattering.

Ive done it myself. For the office, whether you agree or not, you need to look professional and smart. Personally, you need to be comfortable. What do you look for when you choose a shoe. Maybe a heel but it will always be pretty plain and probably dark.

Clear your mind for a second and see colours. Now I know you maybe cant go to the office looking smart with a bright orange or turquoise pair of shoes shouting from the bottom of your legs. You can, however, dispel the work shoe myth and choose shoes that not only make you look fabulous but still fit into the smart professional look.

Before I go any further, always try to choose leather or suede shoes. This is particularly important for work because synthetic materials will make your feet sweat more. Canvas or other fabric just wont work with smarter clothes.

Heres some ideas on colours to choose:-

Red looks fantastic worn with neutral or dark coloured clothes.

Green is the most soothing, calming and easy on the eye colour of any colour in the spectrum.

Everyone should own at least one pair of black shoes. Black just works with everything you wear.

Brown or an earthy tone looks good with similar coloured clothes. A brown or similar shade shoe will also work well with bright coloured clothes because its neutral.

Pink !!!! I can hear you screaming not for work. Maybe not hot pink but a subtle rose or baby pink works well with a matching shirt.

Blue never wear blue with black. You will take yourself back to 1980 and although retro is quite in fashion, this combo doesnt work well. Navy is well just navy. It works well with light grey and white.

White during Spring and Summer white works well with neutral colours or teamed with black.

Now you have an idea on colour think about styles.

Heels are always a good option because they give you so many benefits. Remember, however, you are likely to be wearing them all day and you probably want to opt for only a couple of inches in height.

Wedge heels are an absolute must this year. They are very fashionable, have all the advantages of a heel but are far easier to walk in and far more comfortable.

Round or pointed toed shoes with a wedge heel and ankle strap look fabulous with a knee length skirt.

Pointed toes lengthen your overall look whether worn with trousers or a skirt.

Sabrina or kitten heels are great to wear for work because they only have a couple of inch heel. They are comfortable but look chic and stylish. Choose a different colour with perhaps a buckle or strap detail across the front. Always choose a kitten heeled shoe with a pointed toe. This particular style teams well with a skirt or trousers.

If you want to wear knee high boots always allow yourself a little expense. There is nothing worse than cheap knee high boots. A well made leather pair of knee high boots will cost you from around 60 or $100 upwards. Its worth spending that little more to get the quality. Cheap knee high boots will make you look like you are ready to get the whip out and you certainly dont want to pull that kind of look off whilst you are at work.

There are times when its just too hot to wear closed shoes or boots. Leather flip flops or flat sandals look really smart and chic with flared linen trousers.

If you are wearing an ankle length skirt, flat shoes/sandals for summer will work well. If you have a knee length or shorter skirt opt for a wedge or kitten/Sabrina heel.

Avoid teetering high heels with shorter skirts at all costs. You might have drop dead gorgeous legs but youll be terribly uncomfortable and if you want the smart chic professional look, this just isnt it.

Slingback shoes or mules are a good option for warmer weather. They allow your feet to breathe and team well with trousers or skirts.

Remember, choose a different colour and go for an unusual style or design. Avoid anything with too much ornamentation, ties or detail.

For more information visit the Womens Shoes Guru at www.womens-shoes-guru.com