Before you get irritated at the mere thought of all those buckles, it’s a trick on the eyes. They are trompe l’oeil, printed for illusion! The effect, on layers of red canvas, looks super-amazingly decorative.

What you see is not always what you get – and what you get from Christian Louboutin is not always what you expect. Sometimes he spikes it out to the max with stilettos that could double as medieval weapons, but this spring he’s given way to a friskier approach. Colorful appliqués, exotic beadwork, Bollywood-inspired embroidery, and now, lots of trompe l’oeil action.

On a more serious shoe, it would look contrived, but the thick raffia wedge (measuring no less than 5.5”) is just the balancing counterpoint. So perfect for the summer, whether it’s poolside or wherever the warm weather takes you – and even if you might not notice it, the red sole remains! On Net-a-Porter for $535.

Pair with: Keep it playful with Chloé’s stretch-piqué mini-dress, with a scalloped metallic trim. Toss it on over your bathing suit and be pool party-ready. On Net-a-Porter for $355.