I'm a trained shoe fitter for kids shoes (specifically Startrite and Hush Puppies brands). The current guideline is that you shouldn't put shoes on your child's feet until they've been walking unaided and confidently for at least eight weeks. Once that time has passed you can get them fitted for their first pair.
The shoes shouldn't be too hard because your little one won't be used to the structure around their foot. Ask at a Clarks, Russell & Bromley or Startrite outlet for the best shoes for your child. Also don't let them wear them for longer than necessary; I.e. When your child is in the buggy it's unnecessary for them to wear their shoes. Shoes confine the feet, and the feet are used to being spread at this stage.
I have a 20 month old and she only ever wears shoes when she's walking outside. She still doesn't wear shoes indoors, or in her buggy. When she was only just walking she would be bare-footed indoors, and if she had to wear footwear outdoors we would put pram shoes on her, simply because they're far softer than regular shoes, and they're not as restrictive.
Please follow the guidelines as doing against them and putting shoes on your child's foot before the eight week mark can hinder the development of your child's feet, and it can lead to ongoing problems in later life.