Alaia Lace-Up Calf Hair Boots, $2200. Alaia Calf Hair Spotted Flats, $1220. Both via Net-a-Porter.

I love it when a designer is able to source truly great raw materials and takes the opportunity to create more than one piece from them. Anyone whose seen Alaia shoes in person knows that the calf hair the designer uses is without a doubt the absolute best in the business, and it’s apparent from the moment you lay eyes on the shoes. His footwear may be even pricier than we’ve come to expect, but the workmanship and precision are second to none. And that’s precisely why the Alaia Lace-Up Calf Hair Platform Boots and Alaia Spotted Calf Hair Ballerina Flats both make me so happy.

Both of these shoes are variations on designs that Alaia has released before, and the color pattern of the material varies a bit between the designs. And that’s fine with me – a bit of variation just gives you a reason to buy both. Even though I’ve been restricted to flats for the time being by my physical therapist, I’m personally partial to the boots. I got a chance to try on last fall’s version, and they were exquisite; super solid, incredibly well-made, just a beautiful shoe in every way. The toughness of the lug sole and hiking boot references just make the design all the more special. Sadly, if I had to choose a pair to buy, I’d have to stick with the ballet flats. Buy the boots for $2200 or the flats for $1220, both via Net-a-Porter.