First and foremost, it would be silly not to mention the credit that this design owes to Prada. Dolce Vita, as a brand, inhabits a price point which is often home to rip-off artists, and although the brand isn’t among them as often as some of its competitors, it does owe a debt of design gratitude from time to time. The Dolce Vita Valencia Suede Slingback is one of those times, although it’s different enough from its apparent inspiration that the similarities don’t really bother me. Plus it’s a lot less expensive, which always atones for a multitude of sins.

Other than the Prada-ness of the design, I have nothing negative to say about this bright little shoe. The color is great, the material is on-trend, and the lines are simple enough to fit in to many different kinds of wardrobes.

The shape of the shoe is somewhere between a bootie and a regular slingback pump, and I think I like it. It’s modern, sleek and unfussy without being entirely predictable, and although the ankle strap is not great for the appearance of everyone’s legs, I could see this shoe working for a decent number of women.

What really sets this design apart, of course, is the color. Royal purple is an eye-catcher in any context, but specifically when set against the blacks and greys for which winter is known. I’d wear this pair with black patterned tights to highlight the texture and uniqueness of both the hosiery and the shoes. Buy through Saks for $165.