It's hard to believe that there was once a time when shoes were made simply for walking; today, a variety of footwear exists not only to serve the function of protecting feet, but also for the purpose of personal display. For many people, the essence of their personal style is emitted primarily by their footwear. Long gone are the days when plain heels and flats were the only options available to women; today, a variety of women's footwear aims to provide diversity in order to please a variety of shoe fans.

One such shoe manufacturer is Red or Dead. This season, Red or Dead shoes have brought out a selection of footwear designs reflects high fashion trends, yet still delivers some timeless classics. Boots are a prominent feature: the Red or Dead Hilda, for instance, is a knee high black boot with a lace that ties all the way up to the top. With its round toe and moderate heel, it is likely to appeal to women who like their boots warm and functional, but are also looking for a slightly sexier style to wear out at night. The Red or Dead Ruby is clearly for a different type of boot-fan; with a strong western-influence, this style harks back to the Cowboy-boot trend that emerged a couple of years ago. This ankle boot, with its soft brown leather and short, smooth 5cm heel is an excellent compromise between style and comfort, and would look perfect with a denim skirt - Stetson not necessary.

Red or Dead originally made a big name for themselves customising Dr Martens, however the original AirWair boots are still managing to keep up with current trends by introducing various completely new styles and some great new materials and design patterns to their well known boots. With eye popping 8 eyelet leopard print or 14 eyelet pink lace print boots, todays footwear fashions, mean that being comfortable, looking good and having well protected feet is achievable for anyone wanting to step out in style.

New Rock are another boot manufacturer with a serious eye on the fashion market. Aimed firmly at rock music fans, the new Reactor Skull Buckle and the Devil Boot are chunky, heavy mens biker style calf length boots with extremely thick, chunky sole units and metal panel features, featuring reinforced heel and toe sections. The latest line of New Rock boots for women, including the Toberas, Devil, Hi Biker, Buckle Bike, and the impressive high heeled Formula Buckle continue the trend of great biker boots with very aggressive detailing and heavy amounts of metal plating, which are guaranteed to get the wearer noticed.

For those who like their heels more sensible or suited to office wear, the Red or Dead Shiva is a sober yet chic grey suede platform with a tiny peep toe. The Red or Dead Vegas, alternatively, is a stunning black suede court shoe with an 11cm heel; whether worn at work or out to play, the Red or Dead Vegas is guaranteed to turn heads. Finally, if you're looking for a sleek, black pump, choose the Red or Dead Lindy Thistle, a flat shoe with a rubber sole, covered in a beautiful black and gold thistle patterned fabric; the Lindy Thistle carries unique style, yet it can also act as a fashion staple as it's sure to go with nearly all types of clothing.

Best of all, the fantastic Red or Dead shoes and the awesome New Rock and Dr Marten boots collections can all be bought in a variety of locations, from high street shoe retailers, like Schuh, or by ordering direct or through many of the big name internet footwear shopping sites currently available.

Andrew Regan is an online journalist who enjoys socialising at his local Edinburgh rugby club.

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