Wardrobe Staple: Original Vans

Back in the day (well, I'm thinking 90's), Vans were the shoes the cool kids wore.  They were stylish, comfy and definitely trendy when hanging out with all the skater boys.  And it seems as though they are having a bit of a revival - hurrah!  They've been luxuriated in satin at Céline and chosen to be part of a collaboration with Kenzo.  But I believe nothing beats the basic, original and the best slip-on versions.  They are so classic and versatile and can be teamed with casual jeans or shorts - but also sundresses and pencil skirts.

There is a ton of patterns and prices out there for original Vans, so as ever it is worth doing some research before buying.  As a rule, the slip-ons should be around the £30 - £35 mark, depending on pattern and availability, but they can be found for less.

If I were to go for a plain version, I'd pick these simple blue ones, available on sale from Footasylum for £29.99 in sizes 3 to 7.  They also come in black but are slightly more expensive, and only available in sizes 4 and 7.

But I am very tempted by this classic check version, available from Amazon for around £30.  I'd go for the pink, grey and black I think!

Other deals at the moment include:

• Cloggs - 20% off Vans with code VANS20 until 31st July.
• Allsole - stocks Vans and various codes available until the end of the month.
• Office - some Vans on sale.

Wardrobe Staple: Converse All Star Oxford Lace Up Shoes from Amazon

I don't know why, but in the last couple of weeks I have had loads of people moan to me about the cost of Converse All Star trainers.  Maybe because it's when I'm wearing my favourite purple pair that look amazing, and they're jealous?  Or they are overwhelmed by their fabulousness?  Or that they are sick of shops overcharging for a simple pair of sneakers?  I don't know!  But what I do know is that I paid £25 for them from Amazon a little while ago, which seems to have been a very savvy price.

The trick is to know what you want but to be a little flexible if needs be.  At the time, I had about three different colours I would have been happy with and I regularly checked whether any of them were available in my size, at the price I was willing to pay.  I think now, anything under about £28 is a good deal and you really shouldn't be paying more than the RRP of £35 unless you need the right colour, right now.

The best I can find currently are shoes in this charcoal colour, which are available for £27 in sizes 6 and 8.

However, there is a large range of colours and sizes under £30 available so it's a matter of searching and finding the pair that is perfect for you!  In my experience, Amazon has always seemed to have the best deals on these shoes but of course, it's always worth checking elsewhere on the web, just in case.