Two evening shoes in the same shape and colour can look very different, because the finish changes how much light they throw back. Patent is glossy and formal, smooth leather sits in the middle, and suede absorbs light and reads soft.
Pick a dress fabric and a shoe finish in the interactive to see whether they echo or contrast, then use a simple rule of thumb: count the shiny things in the outfit and keep it to three or fewer. Then find examples at three price points in the same spirit.
Affiliate links, marked sponsored. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Pieces in the same spirit as the look, not the exact items worn. Prices checked 16 Oct; every shop is on each product page.
A suede-look pump in black, to try the soft, matte finish from the article without spending much. Faux suede wears differently from the real thing, so it suits a few evenings out.
Faux suede · Low stiletto heel · Black
A black patent court shoe: the glossy finish the article describes, in a classic shape. It works best as the one shiny accent next to a plain dress.
Patent finish · Court shoe · Black
A leather pump in black with the calm, even sheen that sits between patent and suede. The most flexible finish if you only buy one evening shoe.
Real leather · High heel · Black
