Lisa Armstrong is The Telegraph’s head of fashion. She began her career in fashion at Vogue. She has written four novels, has an honorary doctorate from the University of Arts in London, and was awarded an OBE in 2022 for services to fashion.

Each week, she responds to your queries, lending her expertise to help you shop smart. Have a question for her? Submit it below.

Dear Lisa,

I’d like to treat myself to a pair of lovely shoes. Not sparkly evening shoes, not flats, but a pair of statement shoes I might wear out to dinner or to a party. In the past, I have bought from Miu Miu and Prada but the prices are ridiculous. 

I can’t justify four figures, but I can’t see much online in the sweet spot between high street and designer. I feel there must be some brands out there making what I’m after? I’m trying to shop wisely and only buy the odd amazing thing that will update my existing wardrobe.

– Hilary

Dear Hilary, 

You’re not alone. This is a common refrain among fashion editors too. John Lobb charges around £1,200 for their men’s shoes, but they come with Goodyear welts. It’s hard to justify paying over £850 for a pair of pointy kitten heels that might get wrecked on the first outing. Not so long ago, Prada and Co charged around £500 for shoes, so I’ve looked for pairs that top out at around that price…

Dear Frances, a small, independent UK label ticks a lot of boxes – well made, soft leathers and interesting but not gimmicky designs. These black pumps are currently £245 in the sale. 

Spritz Pump, £245, Dear Frances

Or how about these scarlet patent slingbacks from Reformation (£298)? They have a Prada-look about them that might resonate with you. Or there’s the classic Maysale (£595) from the incomparable Manolo Blahnik?  Or the Aspro 30 design, which might seem plain but they are just so chic. They come in red, taupe and pale blue too (£595). 

Noreen Slingback Pump, £298, Reformation

Manolo Blahnik Aspro 30, £595, Net-A-Porter

If you like this idea – comfortable but not flat, and understated – you might like these low patent block heels from Russell & Bromley, at £325. I have found R&B to be well made and while some of their kitten heels are just a bit too thick to hit the spot, these are good. You said you weren’t looking for sparkly, but the denim in this pair underplays the bling nicely (£295).

Daisy Mid Low Block Heel, £325, Russell & Bromley; Fairytale Gem Buckle Kitten Heel, £295, Russell & Bromley

And do you know Neous? Some of their designs border into that ugly territory that possibly passes for avant-garde depending on your view.  These, with their discreet lace, are just on the classic-with-a-twist nose (£495). 

Or how about this elegant pair from ATP (£450) that are made in Italy in small quantities? There’s also this understated style from Le Monde Béryl for £465.

Manolo Blahnik Maysale 50, £595, Net-A-Porter; Irena, £465, Neous

Babouche Kitten Heel, £465, Le Monde Béryl; Mira Black Nappa Slingbacks, £450, ATP

For other lovely but less pricey options, don’t dismiss LK Bennett. These are lovely and currently £239. The Fold London does good quality classics from £350, like these orange suede block heels, while these, from the Princess of Wales’s favourite Camilla Elphick, are £260. 

San Pietro 45 Heel Burnt Orange Suede, £350, The London London; Florena Teal Satin Pleated Courts, £239, LK Bennett

Matilda Black Mid-Heel, £260, Camilla Elphick

Do you have a style query of your own? Ask Lisa here.

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