We live in Cape Town. The dress code here is pretty much anything goes. It's casual, laid back and encourages individuality. The only problem is, we find, that the times when it's necessary to wear heels are few and far between.

Now take Joburg. There a girl can wear seven-inch heels just to drop off a DVD and no one thinks twice. That's just one of the things that make our cities unique. The heels versus flats debate has raged since, forever. Well, at least since 1533, when a Duke's wife ordered a cobbler to make her shoes with extra height at the heel. They were soon a symbol of stature and prestige, that's where the term 'well-heeled' comes from.

Anyway, we digress. Whether you're a ballet pump girl or a Carrie Bradshaw, it seems that neither one is particularly good for your back. Experts say that a 2cm heels is ideal for your spine, but hey has there ever been an era when women haven't been willing to suffer for beauty?

There are two simple rules when it comes to wearing on-trend styles, without ruining your in-step or your back and those are wearing the right size and alternating.

Have you ever had your feet measured? Wearing the right shoe size is essential. Unfortunately there are so few places in South Africa that offer half sizes, which is endlessly frustrating but maybe next time you buy a pair of shoes ask to have your feet measured.

If you're a heels-to-the-office kind of girl then alternate the height. This season we're going to be seeing the return of the kitten heel in a big way, which is great for the non-heels wearing ladies out there. The super-high stiletto will always have its place as the sexiest shoe on the planet. However, hobbling around like Quasimodo, doubled over from the pain is never a good look. Wear them a couple of days a week and look around for a cute pair of kitten heels. Banish bunions and stay on trend.

If you're looking for some hot new shoes, check out these shoes and accessories.

Take our poll and tell us if you're into heels or flats by clicking here!