Bradford-based Barratts is looking ahead to the autumn/winter season, focusing its collection on boots.

Styles include shoe boots, ankle boots, knee-high and over-the-knee boots.

Key trends include utility/khaki, sheepskin/fur lining and wedges. Women’s desert boots have rubber wedge heels with either sheepskin lining or wraparound leather straps giving a more utilitarian look.

Last year, the company was bought out of administration by former owner Michael Ziff. Since then, progress has been made, he says, with the introduction of a range of recognised, popular brands into stores and online, including Hush Puppies, Reiker and Skechers.

“We are the leading stockist in the country of Skechers’ Tone Ups – their equivalent to flip-flops,” he says.

“We are also the leading retailer selling Skechers’ Shape Ups and other brands such as Lotus, and Loake.”

Barratts’ young fashion range includes Rocket Dog and Converse. While some brands appear in all stores, others are chosen for selected shops.

The team is currently looking at spring 2011.

“We look at what is not in the sale, shoes that next year may sell well,” says Michael, reeling off a list of the names of just about every style of footwear ever.

“Ballet pumps, espadrilles, wedges, peep-toes, loafers, brogues – men’s shoes for women. We are constantly future-forecasting,” he says, adding: “Leather, canvas, distressed, floral.”

Some trends last longer than one season. “Last year, gladiators were massive, this year they have been even bigger.”

Next year, espadrilles and wedges are set to be big sellers.

For men’s shoes, Michael has an in-house team to offer both praise and criticism. His sons, aged 19, 20 and 23, are not involved in the running of the business, but “are quick to pass comment.”

He is passionate about the industry. “If I didn’t enjoy it, I wouldn’t have bought the company,” he says.

The business includes Priceless Shoes, of which there are three branches in Bradford district – the city centre, Greengates and Keighley.

Michael is proud of the firm’s Bradford base. “We bought the building in 1977, before my involvement in the business. I think Bradford is a great city with a lot to offer.”

Barratts’ flagship store in London’s Oxford Street has been refurbished, and other stores across the UK are in line for a revamp. Bradford’s nearest store is at the White Rose Centre in Leeds.

The autumn/winter collection offers peep-toed wedges in patent leather and masculine brogues finished off with a patent finish and stud detailing. Clogs are lined with sheepskin and fastened with metal rivets giving an urban-cool finish.

Evening shoes are glamorous satin styles taking on crystal embellishment, bows and ruffles. “Shoes can make women look and feel better – it is all about the feel-good factor,” says Michael.