If there’s a designer out there right now who’s really, truly mining a specific look, it’s Nina Ricci. Since his arrival at the French brand in 2009, Peter Copping has gone about cementing the Nina Ricci aesthetic as one of old-world Parisian refinement and femininity. The house’s work is full of blush and ivory and crimson, with the details done up in grosgrain trim and jet beading. If you dreamed of Paris as a little girl, Nina Ricci is your grown-up clothing line. May I suggest you start with the Nina Ricci Crystal Detail Python Pump?

Contrary to current shoe trends, which are all about sharp angles, pointed toes and hard metal detailing, this shoe has curves for days. Not only are the rounded almond toe and elegant heel shapely, but the foot opening itself dips and turns in a way that’s sexy without losing its traditional femininity. The ivory and black color scheme, of course, are just about as retro-feminine as it gets. The thin, tall heel keeps things looking just modern enough to be really chic today, which is a great demonstration of how just one element can be changed to avoid a “costume-y” look. Not that I’d be opposed to this sort of costume. Buy through Neiman Marcus for $1220.