Kate Lanphear, Elle’s Senior Style Director, looking killer as always. I’m not a huge fan of Christian Louboutins anymore but these knee-high boots are fantastic. I had a conversation with a friend of mine the other day about the “hookerish-ness” of Louboutins… the ridiculous platforms and the general lack of taste in his trendy designs. A searing indictment, I know, especially considering the first pair of designer shoes I ever bought for myself were his Simple 85 pumps during college. The red lacquer sole combined with the showgirl vibe of many Louboutins is just too much for me although I still adore the classic round-toe pumps. The older I get the more I find myself lusting after classic heels with a quirky touch. Tabitha Simmons’ more understated shoes are at the top of my wish list these days.

But goddammit these might be the finest pair of femme fatale heels to hit the sidewalks since the Nicholas Kirkwood bondage boots for Rodarte a few seasons ago.