When a certain gentleman I know purchased seven identical pairs of shoes at a closing down sale recently, claiming he now had enough shoes to see him to his grave, it struck me how differently women approach shoes. From our slippers to our stilettos, our shoes are not merely functional but a perfect expression of who we are.

Shoes, it is said, can make or break an outfit and, with the average woman owning 19 pairs of shoes at any one time, we’re not taking any chances. However, while many of us love shoes, we often buy them without taking stock of our body shape – a factor that is crucial when choosing shoes, according to the experts.

Thick ankles
If, like me, you’re cursed with thick ankles or ‘cankles’ (where the calve runs into the ankle without any tapering off), shoes with ankle-straps or T-bars are a no-no. They only draw attention to this area of the body and make your legs more chunky looking.

According to style gurus Trinny and Susannah, ankle straps “encircling the offending ankle will make it look like it’s being throttled”.

Also avoid very flat shoes and ballet pumps as they shorten the calves and make feet appear even larger. Instead, we should opt for sling-backs and pump styles, which draw the ankles out and give them more definition. A more pointed toe and a heel also lengthen the ankle.

Wedges are a great option for anyone with thick ankles or wider legs as they give the impression of a more dainty foot.

For colder weather, a full-length boot that ends just below the knee and is tight around the ankle has a great slimming effect and lengthens the leg. Avoid ankle boots or mid-calve length as they only highlight thick legs and ankles.

Long skinny legs
If blessed with long, thin legs, you can pretty much wear whatever type of shoe you want. However, the best way to accentuate your figure and go for the ultra-feminine look is with a pair of strong shoes with a skinny heel. For less height, kitten heels are also great for long thin legs. Other good options include ballet pumps and peep-toes with a two or three inch heel.

Platforms, chunky boots and wedges are not for you, as your legs and feet will look a bit ‘lost’ in them.

Short skinny legs
Small, petite women may be tempted to add height with heels. However, the experts warn that anything over two or three inches will leave you looking ridiculous. Your best bet is ankle boots, platform heels, wedges and tight-fitting knee-high boots. Peep-toe pumps with a medium heel and rounded-toe shoes are also a great look for this body shape.

Unfortunately, ballet-pumps and Mary Jane-style flat shoes (with straps crossing the foot) are best avoided, particularly for mature women, as they can look a bit school-girlish on a smaller woman.

Top trends
Those of us who love a bit of comfort will be delighted to know that wooden clogs, wedges, kitten heels and oxford brogues are back in vogue. Also, if you’ve been guilty of the ‘socks with sandals’ crime against shoe style in the past, you may be surprised to know that it’s a look all the young fashionistas will be going for this year.