Some people swear by a red lip. Personally, I think a pair of red shoes can do just as much for an outfit. Particularly in autumn, when our wardrobes become a revolving door of tailored trousers, trench coats and knitwear in 50 shades of chocolate brown.

There's something rather fabulous about a flash of scarlet peeking out beneath a pair of wide-leg jeans, or a burgundy ballet flat making an appearance between the hem of a wool midi skirt and a pair of sheer tights. It's the sort of styling detail that makes an otherwise ordinary outfit look like you've given it considerably more thought than you actually have.

Of course, red shoes are hardly a new fashion phenomenon. From The Wizard of Oz's ruby slippers to the unmistakable red soles of Christian Louboutin, fashion has had a longstanding love affair with scarlet footwear. And while I wouldn't necessarily recommend clicking your heels together à la Dorothy on the Central line, there is something to be said for the transformative powers of a really good pair of red shoes.

The good news? You don't need to dress like a walking Valentine's Day card to make them work. In fact, I'd argue that red footwear looks its best when the rest of your outfit is fairly uncomplicated. Think cherry-red loafers with charcoal tailoring, oxblood ankle boots beneath indigo denim, or crimson kitten heels adding a little sex appeal to an otherwise sensible autumn ensemble.

Whether you're a devoted minimalist looking to flirt with colour or someone whose wardrobe could rival a Pantone chart, these six red shoe outfit ideas make a very convincing case for putting your black footwear on annual leave.

There are days when a pair of dark wash straight jeans are the quickest route to looking sharp and polished. The deep shade of denim lets the red ballerina pump take centre stage with true star quality. This is all about managing the balance between stillness and spice. The trousers keep things understated while the shoe adds the a little Dorothy-coded whimsy. Together, they remind us that a really great outfit doesn't need to be complicated. Stick to classic cuts and colours, and you'll always find your way back home.

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Who said that a midi skirt in a punchy colour needed a subtle shoe pairing? The more interesting choice: do the complete opposite. A knee-high boot is one of the season's hottest trend and, when matched perfectly with a midi skirt, this will help you nail the most coveted vibe of the summer: laidback, effortless charm. Flirty but not try hard, a monochrome look is bold, sure, but it's also the ultimate cool girl fashion hack. The only thing that's missing? A delicious swipe of cherry lip balm.

Here, the cropped, barrel-leg brown trousers provide a severe, almost architectural base, while the red mules introduce visual tension – which is exactly the key to making a look more exciting. The mix works because the earthy brown shade doesn't compete; it works with the exuberance of red shoes, making the chilli tone of the mules look even richer. The colour pairing itself is a little 1970s, but as long as you choose contemporary cuts and fits, the look will remain thoroughly modern. Wear from the office to dinner to rooftop cocktails.

A red shoe doesn't always have to by hyper-glam and polished. A red trainer or sneakerina can have just as much impact. Exhibit A: a cream lace slip skirt paired with Puma Speedcats. The delicate lace is contrasted with the sporty shoe shape, while the vanilla and cherry-cola colour scheme does the heavy lifting. Good enough to eat.

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Not all jeans speak the same language. Case in point: this turn-up pair of denim jeans that has just a whiff of retro attitude – more relaxed, more playful, more versatile. That's why the red suede sandals with an oversized sole work so well. Both are a little quirky and unexpected, while riffind off classic, timeless styles. The result? A look that's contemporary and super flattering for anyone who wants to get dressed up without looking overwrought.

Time for the grand finale. Pair a power suit with a red heeled mule for a pop of colour. When put together, the outfit almost feels like a costume from an iconic vintage film, thanks to its clean contrasts and timeless references. Whether you're heading out for dinner, a night out or simply an evening when you feel like dressing like the main character, this look is your shortcut to French-girl chic.

The takeaway? Red shoes are your friends – even if you feel a bit scared of them at first. You don't need to be particularly brave to pull them off. All you need is an arsenal of simple stying tricks in your wardrobe to help you on your way. With dark denim, they become sharp. With matching colours, charming. With brown, rich and deep… You get the picture. This summer, a pair of red shoes is the ultimate way to walk foot first into bold style – and turn heads while you're at it.

A version of this piece originally appeared in Glamour Mexico y Latinoamérica.