In reply to kate jackson:
Try some on in a shop first, whatever you do. Some makes have women's sizes/fit too - and make sure they're comfortable.
I'd also suggest getting some thin trainer liner type socks first, and wearing them to your fitting as they will stop your shoes getting a bit pongy.
You probably don't need a really technical shoe, but it's nice to have something that's sensitive - and not too expensive, because beginners usually have poor footwork, and tend to wear shoes pretty fast.
Having said that, I've still got my first pair of rock shoes, which are comfy - but feel heavy and clunky, but I could still climb an F6b+ last time I wore them to the indoor wall, despite them having no edges left on the soles...