As the temperature turns, so too do our wardrobes. Cotswold Living magazine caught up with Sophie Scarrott of Keith Scarrott Shoes – one of the Cotswolds’ top names in fabulous footwear – to talk top tips for timeless style.

A stalwart of the Cotswolds’ style scene, Cheltenham based independent women’s footwear retailer and designer Keith Scarrott shares an update on the latest looks and what to wear for this autumn/winter.

Keith Scarrott was founded by its namesake in 1975 and over four decades has acquired an enviable reputation for showcasing the very best boots, heels, flats, trainers, sandals and many more styles.

Sophie Scarrott, Keith’s daughter, now sits at the helm and continues to lead her father’s founding ethos for creativity, style and high standards.

The Keith Scarrott flagship store in Cheltenham is a destination for the design conscious and showcases exceptional one-of-a-kind footwear, both for the occasion and every day.

To its customers, Keith Scarrott is more than a shop, it is a place of sanctuary where exceptional style meets extraordinary personal service.

The outstanding quality of Keith Scarrott’s collections ensure customers return season after season, introducing friends and family members of all generations to this unique fashion find.

Exclusive collections are designed in the heart of the Cotswolds and delicately hand made in Italy and Spain by the brand’s European artisan partners.

Keith Scarrott’s impressive design credentials date back over four decades and Keith Scarrott continues to be a name that is synonymous with current trends, timeless style and a unique shopping experience.

Here, Sophie shares her top tips for timeless style:

1. Invest, invest, invest

As the famous saying goes, ‘always invest in a good bed and a good pair of shoes, because if you’re not in one, you’re in the other’. Fast fashion is often not the most economical way to build a lasting look. Quality is king when it comes to staple pieces, so although you may think it savvy to save on staple pieces, if you are going to wear the piece season after season, spending a little more will pay dividends.

2. Focus On Fit

It is vital when choosing pieces you want to love forever that they fit you perfectly. If not, you will always look at them sitting pretty in your wardrobe and steer clear of wearing for fear of an uncomfortable day fighting poor fit. Shop assistants are a great first port of call and often a fountain of knowledge when it comes to getting the right fit.

3. Take Care

Storing your shoes correctly should be a priority for any footwear fan, particularly with investment pieces. Kicking your favourite kicks off into a heap at the bottom of the wardrobe – something we’re all guilty of! – is a fast track to trashed shoes. To preserve your favourite pairs, it’s worth spending on good footwear storage, whether that’s hanging pockets in your wardrobe or simply keeping the original boxes.

4. Act on Impulse

There’s nothing worse than hankering after the one that got away, so do not fear an impulse purchase! Many one of a kind pieces must be bought in the moment, so if you stumble across something in an unexpected place, perhaps it was meant to be. Particularly when it comes to independent boutiques, you may not have the opportunity return and buy later. It is also worth noting that many smaller independents stock in small size runs meaning, once it’s gone it’s gone.

5. Staple Vs. Statement

The best capsule wardrobes have a good mix of statement and staple pieces. It is important that you buy both pieces that will make an outfit on their own with little additional dressing and on the flipside, pieces that will complement these statement items. Go for versatile colourways and simple shapes when picking staple pieces and when it comes to statement pieces, add a splash of colour, pick a print and go with what makes you feel good!

Sophie’s edit of the current collection:

From sky high heels to killer boots, Sophie Scarrott provides a pick of the pairs to buy now to see your footwear wardrobe through the winter:

Trainers

No longer is the trainer trend reserved for lycra-loving gym goers only. Now a trusted everyday essential, trainers offer the ideal way to look cool in perfect comfort. This practical yet stylish staple is the go-to for everyone from the fashion pack to mums on the school run and everyone in between.

See the Greta Flat Leopard Print Trainer with Star Detail, £150

Boots

The ultimate transitional pieces for Autumn / Winter, ankle boots never go out of style. We have been swooning statement boots such as our Coperto, designed to add a splash of sparkle to dull winter days. Team with a floaty feminine dress or oversized knit and leggings or jeans for a cool casual, yet effortlessly stylish look.

See Coperto Low Heel Metallic Panel Ankle Boot in Tan, £300

Heels

A perfect partnership, the little black dress is tailor made to pair with a hot pair of heels. These fabulously feminine heels will seamlessly take you from board room to ball room. The red bow also gives a real festive flourish as we enter the Christmas party season.

See Aurora Mid Heel Bow Court, £180

Over the knee

An outfit in themselves, over the knee boots are made for showcasing the sultry shape of the leg. Say goodbye to the styles akin to Pretty Woman and say hello to effortlessly sexy yet ever so stylish boots.

See Lucia High Heel Suede Stretch Over The Knee Boot, £450

Browse and buy from the latest collections at www.keithscarrott.co.uk or visit Keith Scarrott’s flagship store at 8 The Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1LR.

Cotswold Living is published by Newsquest Gloucestershire.