I just came across this interesting little piece about Tod's, an Italian design company that produces fine leather shoes and other goods.

The $5,400 men's shoes are hand stitched from two pieces of leather. If you haven't yet, flip through the photos on the link I have linked above to see the artisanship that goes into each of the slip-on shoes. Although I'm not advocating the use of alligators to make shoes, the animal's skin does lend itself to a gorgeous pattern and the craftsmanship is impeccable.

I don't know about you, but if I had $5,400 shoes, I'd be afraid to wear them. I'm constantly scuffing the toes of my shoes and stepping in puddles. Maybe I would display them in a nice trophy case.