At first glance, I thought that the Alexandre Birman Peep-Toe Pumps were perfectly lovely shoes. Birman regularly does an exceptional job of making wearable, well-priced footwear out of gorgeous neutral python, and it seemed as though these shoes were just further confirmation that my conception of the brand was correct. And then I looked at the shoe from behind.

From that angle, things are even better. Not only is the python perfectly placed on the heel to accentuate the skin’s natural scale structure, but almost the whole underside is covered in python is well. Only the parts of the sole that actually make contact with the ground have a traditional covering on them, making the shoe’s $700 price point even more impressive.

Attention to detail in high-end design is exceptionally important; if I’m going to shell out big bucks, I want the piece to show thought and technique. This pair of shoes shows both, and it makes me wonder exactly how much we’re overpaying for much more run-of-the-mill exotic shoes from brands with more name recognition. My guess? A lot. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $695.