For all those wanting to be one step ahead of the crowd it's perspex shoes that should be slipped on. The trend has been seen across the catwalks of SS12 with Michael Kors, Prada, Christian Louboutin, and Philip Lim getting in on the sci-fi action. But it's Nicholas Kirkwood's creations that have turned a material usually associated with stacked stilettos for the clubs into something more demure. His folded, almost gift wrapped pair make for a ladylike heel and a shoe that transcends seasons.

Nothing could be more appealing in this toe numbing cold than to steal the style of British lords in their oak panelled libraries and a cigar-smoking Hugh Hefner. Though it's not the silky dressing gowns we're coveting, it's the footwear inspired by these unlikely style icons we're after.

And when it comes to 'smoking slippers' Christian Louboutin has the trend nailed. The gleaming studs and plush material choices make sure there's still a firm distinction between the kind of slippers that should most certainly never been seen anywhere but behind closed doors. Both classic and edgy they're more durable than the ballet pump and more feminine than a brogue, plus of course, really rather comfortable.

Each season Miuccia Prada gives us a little sneak peak of her prodigious world. And she never ceases to amaze: her SS12 collection had us wishing we were back on the set of Grease in tight leather trousers and pink jackets. A firm presence in other designers' recent collections, nobody revisits the fifties like Miuccia. Those citrus yellow and pastel blue patent sandals give any outfit that extra edge. Just when you thought pinstriped flames were only meant for decorating vintage collectible cars...