Boots

Every woman in Britain knows the moment. The first properly cold morning arrives, the sandals retreat to the back of the cupboard, and the only question left is which boots. This collection of women's boots is our answer for autumn and winter: styles that look right at your desk, hold their own on a seafront walk and are ready for weather that changes its mind twice before lunch.

Ankle boots are the heart of it, with lace-up fronts, side zips and low block heels that sit on a wider base than a slim heel. Side zips make them quicker to get on and off on a busy morning. Taller knee-high boots are there for skirts and dresses, and a handful of western and cowboy boots bring a bit of swagger for the days you fancy it. Black and brown come first, as they should, followed by beige, grey, khaki and the occasional deep red or blue. Almost every pair is sized in UK, so there is no converting from EU sizes on the back of an envelope.

Think about where your boots will spend most of their time. Under trousers and jeans, ladies ankle boots sit neatly beneath the hem; with a midi dress they show a flash of tights and look instantly put-together. Knee-high styles turn a skirt into a proper winter outfit. Add one of our coats and jackets for the cold snaps or a midi dress for Sunday lunch, and when spring returns, the rest of our women's shoes take over.

Nothing in a winter wardrobe works harder than women's boots, out every day and in every weather. Settle on a pair you are pleased to see by the front door each morning, and the grey months get a great deal shorter.