There is bad news for fashion victims following the Consumer Council's disclosure that pointy-toed shoes are bad for the feet. A look at international catwalks suggests the offending styles will still be hot this autumn. Stilettos with dagger-sharp toes were shown by top designers including Dolce & Gabbana and Chloe.
But shoppers can take comfort in the fact that the season's most popular model is a flat, pointy-toed boot as seen at Gucci, Anna Molinari and Tod's. Accessorised with leather straps and buckles, the boots are less likely to alarm chiropodists.
For those unwilling to squeeze into pointy shoes, there are alternatives. Louis Vuitton, Prada and Yves Saint Laurent are resurrecting a shape not seen in seasons: the square-toed shoe or boot. But there is a catch - the heels are still 10cm high.
