Craving a shoe with silk ribbons and lotus flowers? Donna Karan has the answer. Even if you’re not, you might change your mind upon eyeing this strong yet delicate high-heeled platform. What could have potentially been a disaster in less experienced hands – images of ill-conceived arts and craft projects come to mind – is instead a perfect balance. It is difficult when dealing with so many opposing and equally strong design elements to find harmony; this shoe is not only harmonious, it’s beautiful. Conveying so much at just a glance (references to the classic strappy sandal, origami, and woven baskets are made), this shoe is so captivating it almost elicits an emotional response. I call it shoe poetry. At Donna Karan for $1,290.

Pair with: Only a luxe and unadorned bag will do. If this shoe is a prose poem, then the Valextra “Tammy,” in white with a rose-gold frame, is a masterfully written haiku. At Barneys New York for $2,860.