Hermes Oran Sandal Women Shiny Java Lizard Noir

Flat sandals rarely feel formal, and that is what makes this one interesting: shiny Java lizard in black, on a sole that sits 0.4 inch off the ground, reads sharper than a leather flat and slips under evening clothes without arguing. The flat takes lizard from precious to everyday, which I did not expect. These are the flats I wear when heels are not required but polish is.

Everything is noir — sole, edge and lambskin lining — so the only texture is the lizard scale, and the H cut-out across the vamp is the only line. Six sizes, from 36 up to 41, made in Italy. Under a trouser hem only the H shows, which is the quiet way to wear it. In the evening the scale catches even candlelight.

I wear mine to dinners where heels would be optimistic about the pavement, and with tailored trousers in summer when a closed shoe looks wrong. On holiday they handle the walk to a restaurant and back without a single complaint. I have worn them to a wedding rehearsal and to breakfast the next day. They are light enough to carry in a tote as a spare pair.

An honest limitation: lizard likes dry conditions, and it dislikes water more than calfskin does — rain will dull the finish rather than merely spot it. On a wet evening, take something plainer and keep these for the dry nights. A dry cloth and a dust bag are enough; moisture is the enemy of the scale.