Patent leather shoes: BDSM-level kinky or something one wears sequined suspenders on Broadway? Lately, it seems, neither cliche rings true. Brilliantly reinvented by fashion these last few years—see the shiny stilettos ( worn with stirrup pants! ) at Balenciaga and Vetements ’ signature up-to- there boots—footwear has become the style set's secret weapon, something guaranteed to make even the most quotidian of clothing more interesting.
You’ll reap the same benefits with the 12 high shine options below, all in a versatile black you can mix-and-match with anything. Keep scrolling to shop the look now.
This one works in two more of-the-moment shoe trends: chunky-cool heels, and a defined vamp line.
Miu Miu available at ssense.com | $950
Style these as Rihanna would: with an oversized hoodie dress and unapologetic swagger.
Laurence Dacade available at net-a-porter.com | $1,895
Slightly subversive fabric keeps the ladylike silhouette from feeling too sweet.
Fendi available at net-a-porter.com | $990
While these certainly work with a skimpy going out dress, you might also consider washed out black jeans and a gray sweater—very Kate Moss.
Red Valentino available at redvalentino.com | $580
Resist the urge to play up the ‘90s side of these combat boots, and counter the grunginess with something more polished, like black trousers and a silky button-down, instead.
Dirty Laundry available at zappos.com | $60