Leopard print is usually an aggressive material. Not only does the inspiration itself evoke thoughts of predation and power, but the colors and scale of the print are usually bold and attention-grabbing. Most designers who use leopard in broad swaths are going for a decidedly forceful effect.

Leave it to the leopard-print pros at Dolce & Gabbana to do something far more interesting. The Dolce & Gabbana Satin Leopard-Print Booties are far from the only shoe of their kind that we’ve seen for fall, but the use of delicately ruched satin makes this pair stand out from the haircalf pack.

The combination of a bold print with an ultra-feminine fabric and technique makes this one of my favorite leopard print shoes so far. Lace-up booties are also a big trend this season, and the soft laces on this particular pair ensure that the overall effect evolves past a purely menswear inspiration.

A drawback of satin, of course, is that this shoe is likely not high on durability and cannot be worn in bad weather. But if you’re headed to a party with clear skies overhead, I can hardly think of a better way to punctuate a little black dress. Buy through Neiman Marcus for $925.