Flat shoes have often been seen as a fashion no-no by trend-setters and celebrities alike. An example? Victoria Beckham famously claimed she never goes to the gym because she can't cope with the thought of having to wear flatties. But - shock, horror - even Mrs B's been seen out in a pair of flat pumps recently.

A cupboard full of high heels may be all well and good, but every girl needs at least one pair of flat shoes - and not just because of the comfort factor. In fact - whisper it! - the latest crop of fabulous flatties can look über-glamorous too, making them the perfect alternative footwear for parties, shopping trips and work.

Ballet pumps are still very much in vogue, as seen on the Chanel catwalk and worn by the likes of Katie Holmes, Kate Moss and tabloid regular Amy Winehouse. They're great for nights out and shopping trips, but be warned: lack of support in the soles means your feet may start to hurt if you're pounding the pavements for more than a couple of hours.

If you just want a basic, go-with-anything shoe, buy a pair of ballet pumps in black - or for a more eye-catching evening look, try New Look for their gorgeous red satin pumps with its cute bow (£15; www.newlook.co.uk).

Other fabulous flats that are all the rage right now include this season's must-have gladiator sandals: we're currently obsessed with Moda in Pelle's ridiculously comfortable Octopus pair (£50; www.modainpelle.com). And, of course, there's always the good old reliable baseball pump, as worn by Agyness Deyn.

But if you really can't bear to go out on the town without your heels, it's still a good idea to invest in a pair of Red Foot Revolution's after-party shoes (£25; www.redfootrevolution.co.uk). These unique folding pumps come in a variety of colours and designs: just pop a pair into your handbag then slip them on when your feet are in need of some TLC. Genius!

Discover more about the Heaven range of chocolate.

Watch the Heaven Sent monthly video.