KELLY SIA, 40, HOUSEWIFE AND SOCIALITE

Which is your favourite shoe brand?

I can't choose just one favourite brand as there are so many talented designers. A few of my favourites are Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo and Christian Louboutin.

How many pairs of shoes do you own?

I haven't taken an inventory lately but it's not as many as you might think as I often give the older pairs away.

Which is your most expensive pair?

The most precious and expensive pair I own is from Christian Lacroix's haute couture spring/summer 2007 collection which I bought in Paris for 3,500 euros (S$7,516). It's ivory-coloured, has a 10cm heel and is closed-toe with an ankle strap. It's made of silk and has a hand-cut flower that covers the toe. I had them specially ordered for my wedding last year in Monaco. I ordered a similar pair in red for the same price, but with a 13cm heel.

The cheapest pair?

My cheapest shoes are beaded flip flops from Bali. They cost only US$5 (S$6.90). I buy them by the dozens so I get a good deal, but I've given them all to my sister, who loves them, so I need to get more.

How tall is your highest pair of heels?

The 13cm-high red Christian Lacroix pair. Luckily though, they're comfortable and don't hurt my feet.

Which label makes heels that are both nice and comfortable?

Valentino makes beautiful shoes that are surprisingly comfortable.

How do you break in a pair of new shoes so they don't hurt?

I don't have a clue how to do so except to wear them.

Any other tips or tricks to wearing heels?

I always carry band-aids with me in case I feel a blister coming on. Sometimes, I'll use band-aids to prevent blisters if I know the shoes will pinch.

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times on Mar 20, 2008