One of my favorite modern fashion tricks is the mixing of unexpected materials. For me, it all started with Fendi’s brilliant silk-and-lucite platforms several years ago. Since then, I’ve spent a lot of time mixing textures in my own wardrobe – leather and lace, denim and chiffon, suede and satin. It’s an almost no-fail way to look luxurious and but together a modern, stylish outfit. If you need any more convincing, just take a look at the Lanvin Brocade and Neoprene Boots, which are as gorgeous as they are impractical. (But isn’t that true of all the best shoes, really?)

In a way, thigh-high boots are more practical than you’d expect; with a pair of leggings, they wear sort of like pants. Don’t take my word for it; my good friend Casey has had a pair of Prada thigh-highs for three years that she just keeps on wearin’. This pair, because of the strong brocade statement at the front, will likely be a bit more challenging to work into a wardrobe, but for a true shoe snob, it’s definitely worth trying. To contrast the luxe, old-world feel of the front of the boot, the back is finished in paneled black neoprene; not only does neoprene have a bit of a give to it that’s ideal in a shoe that covers such a large part of the body, but it’s a nice contrast in texture and mood to the intricate, lush textile at the front. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $2885.