Red shoes were once considered to be a sign of extreme vanity; so much so that a moralistic fairy tale was written on the topic and a ballet choreographed to dramatise the dangers of such vanity.

But red shoes were never more popular than on the Independence holiday in Trinidad and Tobago. This is when the fashionable red dresses come out and also the red shoes to match.

We went to downtown Port of Spain looking for red shoes and found a variety in several stores. Indeed every store window was emblazoned in red. From stilettos to boots; wedge heels and flats there was a style to suit almost any occasion.

Christal Lewis from Ate`Logo in Port of Spain says that these shoes are not only trendy but comfortable too.

With Independence Day right around the corner red shoes have become the 'hot-ticket' item for customers, Lewis said.

Echoing similar sentiments, sales clerk Raquel Ryan from Blaanix by Bang Bang located in Aboutique Mall, Port of Spain said, "Red is a popular colour and many of our customers ask for it particularly for Independence Day."

Despite the height on some of these very high heels Lewis said women can feel confident knowing that their feet are properly supported. And showing that these shoes were indeed made for walking, ladies in downtown Port of Spain showed off their patriotism by donning these sizzling red stilettos. Holding the entire foot and ankle, these shoes not only appeal to a woman's sense of style but comfort and versatility, Lewis said.

Trinidad and Tobago will celebrate 48 years of Independence on Tuesday. And while having a pair of red shoes is great for Independence Day, Lewis said red shoes are one of the most requested items by customers for graduations and weddings too.