Photography by Katie Ennis

When the Fall ’09 collections debuted, I drooled over the rich satin folds at Balenciaga, especially an indigo and black skirt–traditionally a tricky shade combo. These pleated satin flats from Urban Outfitters ($32, visit urbanoutfitters.com) are an effortless way to try out the combination and add sheen to basic holiday black. They also come in burgundy, black and a peach that will carry you into spring. Now if only my party date was half as handsome as Nicolas Ghesquière.