Searching for the ultimate pair of shoes is not like searching for the rainbow: it’s totally doable and if done right, you can walk out of the store with a 100-watt smile as you carry your dream shoes. But the thing is, if you don’t pay attention to some of the fashion industry’s ultimate golden rules, your shoe-shopping experience can go from yay to nay in one split of a second.

So before you venture into that exhilarating experience, make sure you keep in mind that there are a lot of factors that could boost your shopping spree, from the timing to the place, and of course the season. That said, scroll through for some tried-and-true shopping tips.

Do get a jump on things by writing a list of shoes you need to buy. There are of course the shoes you need to have because they’re missing from your closet and there are also the shoes you want to have because, well, you deserve them.

Once you make that list, don’t forget to shop for your shoes at the right department store. If you want to have wider choices, pick a store that only sells shoes and be amazed by the variety.

Do know what you’re looking for; if you want comfy shoes, then you might as well lower your standards. But if you want fashionable shoes, then aim for more fashion-oriented stores.

Don’t underestimate the power of black heels. Every woman needs them and every woman should have them.

Do make sure you have one great pair of flat shoes in your closet. The flat trend is back in style and you will need to stock up on it.

Don’t buy shoes you can’t walk in. If you already feel like walking in these shoes is mission impossible, then forget about them, it will only get worse.

Finally, do make sure your shoe style works with your body type. If you have larger ankles, then maybe ankle boots are not made for you, and so on.

Cindy Menassa