The Latest Footwear Trends for 2012

If you’re looking for the latest 2012 shoe trends, but at prices you can afford, then you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re shopping for shoes online or on the high street, we’re here to help. Our rundown of the latest, must-have footwear looks for this year is packed full of ideas to help you get these styles for less. So put your best foot forward and try these 2012 footwear tips out for size.

 Stand-out Soles
One key trend for the year ahead is statement soles. Concealed platform soles have been the celeb’s heel of choice lately, but that’s all set to change. This year, designers want to make a statement with soles, not cover them up. So look out for shoes with a contrasting platform, or contrasting heel. These Nine West court shoes (pictured) from House of Fraser sum up the trend, and they’re currently reduced online too.

Shop Online
You’ll often find the cheapest footwear prices online. Alongside auction sites and secondhand online swap shops, high street stores often use their websites to advertise the latest sale stock. Sign up for online newsletters and your favourite online shoe stores will contact you when new footwear items are added to their clearance range. Shopping for shoes online also gives you access to discounted shoes that might have already sold out in physical stores, and access to offers that you won’t find in store either.

Futuristic Trend
This is one of the most wearable footwear trends for 2012. Futuristic materials, metallic silver and gold, and transparent strapping is what this trend is all about. Look out for metallic shades and detailing. If you’re looking to get the futuristic look for less, it’s also one of the easiest trends to do yourself. Glitz up your heels by applying silver beading, metal studs, or get to work with gold fabric paint.

Do It Yourself
Another moneysaving footwear tip is to get crafty and recreate the latest looks yourself. Fabric paints, haberdashery items, ribbon and beading are all easily affordable and easily applied to footwear. Fabric dye’s also an affordable way to give your footwear a colour revamp to keep up with the latest colour trends.

1920s Glamour
Designers often look to vintage styles for inspiration, and this year they’ve turned their attention to the 1920s. The era of the speakeasy, flapper dress and the Charleston has is a key trend for footwear and clothing for 2012, and getting the look right is really affordable too. Check out this guide to 1920s fashion to see just why this particular era has captured the imaginations of the leading fashion houses.

Go Vintage
With vintage-inspired trends like these, the most affordable way to get the look is often to seek out original vintage items rather than expensive designer copies. Head to your local car boot sale, second hand clothes market and vintage boutiques and you’ll find genuine 1920s footwear and fashion on offer for less.