In this day and age, why shouldn't womens shoes (or clothing for that matter!) fit well and look great? Get your mind out of the gutter, I'm not talking about that C word, but the word "comfort". In the world of today's fashion, it seems to be a dirty word. Who can forget the episode of NZ's Next Top Model when contestant Laura was blasted by Australian designer Kirrily Johnston for describing her clothes as "comfy"!!

Theres nothing worse than seeing a girl hobble along in ill fitting shoes - whether she is walking around in what looks like her Mummy's shoes playing dress up (too-large shoes that gape) or what I like to call "The Paris Hilton overhang" (toes hanging out the front of too-small shoes). "Thats hot!"?? Err, not so much...

There is now a plethora of (stylish) footwear brands on the market that fit well, do half sizes for those "in between" standard sizes and cater for opposite ends of the spectrum: "small and petite" Vs "long and elegant", or narrow Vs broad fitting feet. Many of us as Kiwis grew up wearing jandals or bare feet - the modern day equivalent of that being crocs - and we are known for having broad feet compared to our European counterparts.

A great tip for the smaller/slimmer foot is to buy Spanish-made shoes - like Stuart Weitzman, Donald J Pliner, Rebeca Sanver or Salvador Sapena. Have a wide foot? Go with English, German or Austrian brands like Clarks, Hogl or Paul Green - they are wider and go up to size UK 8 (European 42 - or US size 10). Blame our Viking ancestors but I think the Kiwi foot is getting larger!

Below: new styles that not only look fabulous (whilst showcasing the hottest new trends for 2010), but FEEL fabulous on the foot...

As Coco Chanel once said: Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury" - think cashmere - or as they say at L'Oreal: "Because you're worth it!"


1. Pacey by Paul Green - These Cool Casuals are the most comfortable I've ever worn, period. Unlike others of their ilk they're leather lined, have padded arch supports and come in half sizes. LOVE the new tan colour. *Also available in a high-top version.

2. Patty by Paul Green - Sexy slim heel? Check. Classic enough to last you more than one season? Check. Comfortable enough to stand in all day? Check! At last, Corporate shoes that are sleek and stylish yet feel fabulous on the foot! *Sizes available up to size UK 8 (European 42)


3. Foxane by Arche - over-the-knee boots are THE hottest footwear trend for winter 2010. These ones by French brand Arche are so lush and soft you'll never want to take them off. Who would've thought a flat boot could look so sexy? *Perfect for the slimmer leg.

4. Gustav by Hogl - these classic knee boots have a striking "ribbed" stretch leather panel that elongates the leg and ensures a great fit. What more could a girl ask for? *Hogl are great for the more voluptuous calf and go up to size UK 8 (European 42)


5. Lola by Paco Gil - these cone heeled courts with hidden platform are high fashion yet uber-wearable. In on-trend purple or classic black. *Great for the narrow to medium foot and sizes start at European 36


6. Belle by Fratelli Masotti - quite possibly the world's best fitting ballet flat! Choose from red, beige, white or black patent, or lush black suede. Fits every foot without gaping. A must have in your shoe wardrobe.

7. Billie by Progetto - this is a great boot for "yummy mummies" - it has a sturdy "not too high" block heel, non-slip rubber sole and is curved at the top for a flattering fit. Available in black or this beautiful chestnut colour.


8. Florida by Progetto - brogues are hot for 2010 and this style is super comfortable, featuring a combination of soft leather and suede.


9. Woodstock by Stuart Weitzman - this style is on-trend yet feels fab, typical of Hollywood's favourite shoe designer! Featuring a wearable platform wedge and flexible crepe sole, the laces let you adjust the fit. *Perfect for wearing to those winter gigs where you want the height without the hurt.