THE leaves may have only just started to fall, but autumn is definitely on its way. So, as the days get shorter, looking forward to the new season's trends should help to lift your mood.

And if you're not sure where to start with a wardrobe overhaul, how about your feet?

What's in this season? Well, black is back with an overwhelming return, but with a twist. Mixed with fascinating fabrics like metallics, it shows that it's not as sombre as we may have expected.

But black isn't the only popular colour around. Rich shades like berry tones of plum and purple, dull metallics like pewter, copper and bronze combined with glittery gold and silver, and teal greens and blues, are also very fashionable.

COLOUR INFERNO

With teal being one of the hottest hues on the autumnal palette, a pair of shoes in this must-have colour will put others in the shade.

JFW's Sunny kitten-heeled Rosette shoes in petrol blue, £60 from John Lewis, Debenhams' teal and silver bow shoes, £30, and LK Bennett teal Rooster court shoes, £110 from Viva La Diva, are ideal for stepping off to work.

Or make an impression on a special night out with Morgan's blue sequin and brooch shoes, £49.99.

FAKE IT

Animal skin is always a popular choice during the year, and this season is no exception. Rather than the abundance of real skin that was spotted on the Fashion Week runways, animal lovers will be happier with the fake versions available on the high street.

Mock crocodile skin appears more expensive than it is, so look the part with Matalan's mock croc court shoes, £14, or combine two trends (colour and texture) with Debenhams Collection burgundy croc effect court shoes, £35.

Had enough of crocodile? Then try your luck with snake. Next's snake effect court shoes, £44.99, and Office's pink mock snake and velvet pumps, £54.99, are worthy investments for the winter.

LADYLIKE CHIC

The glamour trend has already brought with it pencil skirts, nipped-in jackets and silky blouses, so it was only a matter of time when high heels and round toes came back.

Add a touch of luxury with Tu's satin pleat shoes, £25, and Matalan's satin ribbon stilettos, £16

Check out JFW Fantun chocolate bow shoes, £60 at John Lewis, or River Island's lace detail shoes, £44.99. Marks & Spencer Limited Collection pink tweed flower court shoes, £35, and Debenhams black and white tweed bar shoes, £30, combine elegance with tweed.

ALL TOUCHY FEELY

Luxurious fabrics give off the impression that they're worth more, so a pair of gorgeous-feeling shoes should and will make you feel like like a thousand pounds.

If Topshop's funky gold and purple tapestry wedges, £50, doesn't brighten up your gloomy autumnal day, then River Island's embroidered peep-toes, £49.99, and Barratts' Almond sequinned satin ballet pumps, £18, should.

Velvet is another touchable fabric, and is perfect for dressing up an outfit. Treat yourself to Next's purple velvet jewel court shoes, £29.99 or LK Bennett's bow detail shoes, £129.