Jamila by Joan & David

Shine On: Jamila by Joan & David in black, $130.00

We were suffering from a real dearth of heels in this season of boots, so it was with relief verging on tears that we unwrapped a shipment from Joan & David containing three new pumps: the Jamila (shown), Halley and Lana. Choosing just one to feature as Shoe of the Week wasn't easy, but after much debate the Jamila won our hearts and the feature.

Its elegant simplicity did it. The graceful taper on the 4-1/2" stiletto looks like an illustration on the Golden Mean and a 1/2" platform blends artfully into the upper. That platform helps you maintain towering sexy-height without the teetering. The whole thing is wrapped in supple, flawless Napa leather that screams a price tag higher than its 130 bucks.

Our favorite detail, however, is lower to the ground. The captoe ever-so-subtly references menswear trends while retaining a maryjane feel. A slight gloss separates it from the upper, making the whole toebox seem snubbed and thus smaller. Matching gloss on that heel means the overall focus goes in and up, making your foot seem smaller and your legs longer, all in a package designed for a comfortable long wear.

The focus on subtle detailing and austere, clean lines makes this a chameleon of a shoe. You can dress the Jamila up, keep it laid-back, wear it to work or the movies. Its quality helps keep your look polished, no matter what the occasion or locale. A shoe that makes you longer, more petite and works regardless of the circumstance? Tear-filled relief indeed.