Ooh la la! It just gets more and more fanciful as Christian Louboutin celebrates 20 years of exuberant creations. Nobody seems to understand quite as well as the prince of the red sole that shoes have the ability to transport us, literally and figuratively. With a great sense of joie de vivre, this satin sandal whisks me to Moulin Rouge-era Paris, of sparkling lights, onstage antics, and backstage exploits.

Inspired by both showgirls and birds of paradise, the Pluminette is as feminine as a shoe could be. Sensual fishnet, two dollops of pompoms, and a deliciously light topping of whisper-delicate feathers add up to timeless decadence fit for a flirtatious exhibitionist and a true collector. Almost too pretty to wear, this pair would take center stage on my shoe shelf. At Barneys New York for $2,495.