Where goddess meets gladiator: the Amanda Rio

Women of transcendent style understand intuitively that black heels with a little black dress is passé. At best, it’s boring; at worst, it insults the LBD with its mundane, matchy-matchy mimicry. What’s called for is something along the order of the Amanda Rio. The Grecian goddess-gladiator style is tough yet tender with metallic trim, grommet details, buckled T-strap and an appreciably high 3-1/4-inch covered heel. Pictured here, the red and gold, an uptown way to complement an understated LBD. . It’s also perfectly at home with a pantsuit, a jumpsuit or a pair of jeans. The chic shoe also comes in black and pewter. They’re under $50 at Shoe Trader. Click on the photo to shop.