We know opposites attract, but few opposing forces go together quite as well as the shades of black and white. There’s a reason everyone seems to look better in black and white photographs – it’s an utterly flattering pairing. It’s a timeless mix (it can’t ever go out of style. Just ask Coco Chanel), but this season, designers seems to be all about the austere color contrast, mashing up the Oreo-cookie shades for shoes that are bold yet neutral. You can save the colors for your clothes, but with these top picks, your feet will make the real statement. Who needs color anyway when ebony and ivory looks this good? Just keep the rest of your look light and easy – you probably don’t want to channel Cruella De Vil!

1) Yves Saint Laurent Robyn Suede and Patent-Leather Wedges: These skewed Mary Janes are cute and girly in the front; then kick your heels up for a patent-leather surprise. Sculpted white wedges have the effect of glamorous seashells that really pop against black suede. On Net-a-Porter for $945.

2) Esquivel Linea Striped Leather Brogues: Such a classic, almost conservative shoe deserves an element of the offbeat. A bold swipe of white, as if a painter took a crisp roller to your brogues, satisfies your craving for the avant-garde. On Net-a-Porter for $920.

3) Alexander Wang Caroline Platform Booties: This milk-dipped slingback is an innovative revamp of the classic Chanel spectator bootie. Just watch out for scuff marks on that pristine white toe! On ShopBop for $525.

4) Belle by Sigerson Morrison Spotted Calf Hair Wedge Ankle Boots: Sometimes black and white doesn’t have to be bold and graphic. Softly flecked spots make these geometric calf-hair booties totally intriguing. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $375.

5) Salvatore Ferragamo Houndstooth Printed Python Pump: Ferragamo has just reinvented houndstooth with their fall collection. Stark shade contrasts, multiple print scales, and mysterious python make these a must. At Nordstrom for $950.