12 Shoes to Convince You to Shine in Black Patent All Season

This one works in two more of-the-moment shoe trends: chunky-cool heels, and a defined vamp line.

If your wardrobe leans more classic, a timeless Chelsea is boot is quiet enough to work with more conservative ensembles.

Style these as Rihanna would: with an oversized hoodie dress and unapologetic swagger.

Slightly subversive fabric keeps the ladylike silhouette from feeling too sweet.

While these certainly work with a skimpy going out dress, you might also consider washed out black jeans and a gray sweater—very Kate Moss.

Resist the urge to play up the ‘90s side of these combat boots, and counter the grunginess with something more polished, like black trousers and a silky button-down, instead.

Where matte black may read by-the-book corporate here, a hint of shine adds edge.

If you’re worried the material seems in-your-face sexy, look to menswear-inspired details (think tooling and chunky soles) for contrast.

With a boxy heel and streamlined shape, shiny loafers are far more cool girl than A Chorus Line.

A compelling reason to stay on the flat mule bandwagon just a little longer.

Under a cropped pair of trousers or jeans, the skinny, ankle-hugging fit feels like something Lou Doillon would wear for a night out in Paris.

Ever-so-slightly muted, this one is understated enough for stricter office dress codes.