One of the most important factors when choosing a pair of shoes are ensuring that they are a good fit.
Shoes must fit correctly for them to be comfortable, especially when worn for extended periods of time and if you spend the day on your feet.
Incorrectly fitting shoes will quickly become uncomfortable to wear even if you are sitting down, never mind walking.
My feet are a size 8 but one foot is slightly larger and wider than the other.
This is not unusual in fact it is very commonplace, so while we can have our feet measured before we purchase footwear,it is generally the length of the foot that is measured, not the width of the foot.
Manufacturers do produce wide fitting shoe ranges to cater to those with wide feet but just like people, feet are individual and come in a range of varying sizes and shapes with differing widths and dimensions.
Shoe sizes and measurements should be understood as a reference point to choose a pair of comfortable shoes.
Think of your shoe size as a starting point to use for guidance only.
Sizes differ from country to country, US sizes are different to UK sizes for example.
The only real way to ensure a shoe is a good fit is to try them on and walk around a little bit.
Ask yourself if they are comfortable? Do they feel like a good fit or are they immediately uncomfortable to wear and walk around in? Your choice of shoe may look amazing but are they comfortable to wear? Try to choose footwear that allows your feet to remain unhindered and retain their natural shape.
Pointed toes generally do not allow your feet to be as comfortable as round toe models of footwear do.
Heels are also a style of shoe that have a reputation for being notoriously uncomfortable to wear and are often the cause of many accidents.
Broken heels are a prime example of an accident that can end in a twisted, injured ankle or foot.
Flat soled shoes are a more practical option and are available in a wide range of fashionable styles that compliment a dress as well as high heels can.
If you really like heeled shoes, try to choose a heeled model of shoe that are not stiletto heeled.
The thin pointed heel is not ergonomic to wear and does not distribute the weight of your foot as well as a wider flatter heel can do.
Would you dance in those shoes is often a question that shoppers should ask themselves before they buy shoes.
None of this means that you can not buy shoes that are fashionable, it is just important to ensure that comfort is a consideration too.
Shoes can be flattering to wear, look good and be comfortable to wear if you take the time to try a few pairs on but try to choose a style that is fashionable and comfortable at the same time.
Never sacrifice comfort over looking good but try to strike a balance and your feet really will thank you for being considerate to them.
Brands such as Hush Puppies are famous for being comfortable and have also become fashionable in recent years.
Other brands of footwear such as Kickers are able to combine fashion and comfort too.