THE miserable weather really put the boot into the first few months of the year. So thank goodness sunshine's finally stepping back into our lives.

Now the frosty days are almost behind us, it's time to put your snow booties and sheepskin numbers into storage, as daintier styles are a shoo-in for spring.

With the return of kitten heels, pointed courts and Alice in Wonderland-esque low block heels, footwear has gone uber-pretty.

Whatever your preferred style, the good news is these are all instant magicians of leg flattery. And the bad news? They all look better minus tights.

Time to brave bare skin and indulge your feet with this season's feminine shoe story.

POINTY PERFECTION

Clumpy platforms have paved the way for streamlined pointed toes - and the sharper the better. Chiropodists, look away now...

In a simple court shape, these heels have been reproduced all over the high street due to the legion of women who have discovered their incredible leg-lengthening qualities. Even flat versions are on point this season.

The shoe world's your oyster when it comes to colour. Try versatile neutrals, glossy metallics, bright suedes and punchy prints, but it's white heels that will leave you standing head and shoulders above the fashion pack.

Banish those Essex Girl connotations and dip your toes into the white shoe craze - the perfect accompaniment to monochrome or bright outfits.

BLOCK BEAUTIFUL

Rejoice, heel haters - skyscrapers have been put on the back-burner this season and mini tower blocks are in.

Midi blockettes are not only stylish but super-comfortable. Think of them as a ballet pump on a raised chunky heel.

Go for nude styles with bow or embellishments for uber-pretty, or bright and minimal for urban cool.

With a retro shape harking back to the Sixties, these shoes will give your outfits a retro spin, especially if worn with a sleek shift dress. To keep your look modern, try pairing them with jeans to add instant chic.

Keep the toes closed for a true prim 'n' proper look or opt for sandals styles for a fresh summer look.

KITTEN COUTURE

It's official, little heels are a big deal this season. Another heel joining the midi club is the kitten.

As trend-setting Burberry Prorsum showcased kitten heel wedges on the autumn/winter 13 catwalk, this is a heel shape that's sure to make fashionistas purr right through to next year.

For spring, stick to slingback heels that resemble a mini stiletto. Like midi blockettes, this skinny heel won't be agony to walk in all day but the drawback is that you might be visiting the cobblers on a frequent basis.

Sandals also come in kitten heel form. Accessorise your footwear with a contrasting bright pedicure for a fashionable finishing touch.

PRETTY PRINTS

If plain shoes aren't entertaining enough for your feet then prints are guaranteed to get your pulse racing.

Tapping into this season's catwalk love affair with prints, decorative patterns are splashed over just about every shoe shape.

Print heels are the ideal option if you veer towards neutral or plain outfits and need a statement accessory.

Floral blooms will give an ensemble a pretty touch, animal prints will add a fun element, while abstract arty heels will be cool enough to leave admirers gazing wistfully.

For optimum pattern flaunting, the fussier the print, the simpler the shape of the shoe should be.

MINIMALIST MODE

On occasions when you want your outfit to do all the talking, this season's minimalist sandal is right up your street.

Reminiscent of the Nineties, Rihanna has recently worn little else on her feet in a variety of hues.

We're talking no embellishment, bells or whistles - just two plain straps, platform-free soles and an elegant straight heel. The effect is instant leg elongation.

While one bar rests along the top of your toes, the other hugs your ankle, so ensure they're a good fit and book in for a spring pedi as these shoes show off a whole lot of foot.