Hermes Oran Sandal Women Swift Calfskin Blanc Natural

Two neutrals in one shoe: a white upper, a natural leather edge, and the quiet line between them doing all the work. This pair does not try to be noticed. It is the Orans I lend to friends who say they could never wear white shoes, because the natural tone stops the white from looking clinical and the sandal reads like something you have owned for years.

Swift calfskin is smooth, soft and quick to mould, so the H cut-out sits easily over the instep from the first afternoon. Underneath, the sole is low, one centimetre at the heel with a five-millimetre drop to the front, and the lining is lambskin, which keeps bare feet comfortable once the day gets warm. Made in Italy, sizes 36 through 41.

Occasions: these are my travel pair for warmer places, worn with tailored shorts at lunch and a cotton dress after dark. They look intentional with a linen suit too, which is more than I can say for most flat sandals. Because the leather is smooth, they take a polish and bounce back quickly after a dusty day.

Honest note: white leather with a pale edge shows where you scuff it, and the natural edge darkens slightly with water and time. I see that as character rather than damage, but if you want a pair that stays literally untouched, choose etoupe or black instead. Otherwise, brush, buff and wear them often.