In grand Atwood fashion, though, the over-the-topness of the Brian Atwood Brigitte Platform Sandal kind of totally works, though. With the thick proportions, bold leopard print straps and contrasting turquoise and tangerine trim (one of my favorite contrasting color combinations ever, especially for summer), this shoe is a veritable party unto itself. It aims for off-the-rails, and it achieves exactly that.

These shoes are outfit-makers in every sense of the word. You could put on almost anything with them – a white shirt dress, shorts and a tank top, anything – and no matter how basic, the other elements of the ensemble would automatically seem more interesting. The best shoes after walk the narrow line between tacky and fabulous, and Atwood is generally a master of finding exactly the right combination. These shoes look like they weigh a ton, but you’ll rarely find a pair that looks like so much fun. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $895.