Shoes go to extremes this summer! While the wedge gets the most fashionista buzz for its fun factor, flat shoes in bejewelled sandal and ballerina shapes are also cute and practical must-haves.

Stylish flats are a comfortable alternative to high heels and foot-cramping stilettos. Flats are not just worn by tall, willowy women but by all women. As long as you wear the right trousers, capris, or skirts, you will look great no matter what your body type. Many women worry that flats will make them look shorter because they are so used to the height-giving effect of heels. You can avoid this shrinkage by pairing flats with a shorter skirt. An above-the-knee length skirt, for instance, shows just enough leg to counter the shortening effect of flats. You can also avoid looking short by not pairing flats with trousers tapered tightly at the ankle.

Many of this season's flats are meant to replicate the look of ballet shoes. These dainty shoes are typically rounded toe and childlike in their simplicity.

Whether you're dressing up for a date or dressing down for lunch with your friends, the sweet styles don't just provide relief from painful high heels, they look great too.

Look for a variety of colors, embellishments, toe shapes and patterns to instantly boost the basics in your closet.

Shoe designers make footwear that is flat, sturdy, and sophisticated. You can get everything from leather slingbacks to trendy, pointy-toed pairs. In addition, the definition of flats is fairly generous. A half-inch heel can add a subtle extra height to your body while still giving the appearance of wearing a flat. These small heels are often called kitten heels.

Two of the key things that shoe designers are focusing on this season are color and texture. These elements can combine in flats to create enduring, fashionable looks. Faux skin like mock crocodile and mock snakeskin are especially popular this season. Suede has been a big presence on fashionable feet this season. Buckles, bows, and tassels are also adorning flats. Top-stitching and seams are essential in lending the appearance of quality to a shoe as well.

Editor: Donald