The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) Art + Film Gala 2025 recently brought together a constellation of stars, each making a distinct fashion statement. Beyond the designer gowns and tailored suits, it was the footwear that truly captured attention, revealing emerging trends and showcasing high-fashion craftsmanship.
Attendees stepped onto the red carpet in an array of designer shoes, ranging from established luxury brands to avant-garde labels. Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Valentino were prominent, alongside names like Cult Gaïa. The evening's footwear choices highlighted both classic elegance and daring new designs.
Key Takeaways
- Pointed-toe pumps with metal heels emerged as a significant trend.
- Platform sandals continued their strong presence on the red carpet.
- Thong sandals made a notable appearance, signaling a shift in formal wear.
- Gucci was a dominant brand, featured on multiple celebrities.
Pointed-Toe Pumps Lead the Way with Modern Edge
A striking trend observed at the gala was the resurgence of the pointed-toe pump, now reimagined with a contemporary twist. Several celebrities showcased versions fresh from the spring 2026 runway collections.
These pumps often featured distinctive metal heels, adding an industrial yet elegant element to classic silhouettes. This detail is poised to become a widespread trend in the coming seasons, moving beyond the red carpet into mainstream fashion.
Fashion Fact
Doja Cat and Emma Roberts both wore Gucci's spring 2026 pointed-toe pumps. Doja Cat opted for a black pair with a gold metal heel, while Emma Roberts chose a beige version. Kim Petras and Alex Consani also sported similar Gucci designs, highlighting the brand's influence on this trend.
The pointed toe offers a sleek, elongating effect, making it a favorite for formal occasions. The addition of a metallic heel elevates the design, providing a modern edge that distinguishes it from traditional pumps.
Platforms Maintain Their Presence and Thong Sandals Emerge
Platform sandals continued to be a popular choice among many attendees, offering both height and a bold aesthetic. These shoes provide a strong foundation, complementing elaborate gowns and structured ensembles.
Angela Bassett, for instance, selected Saint Laurent Tribute platform sandals. These featured intertwining straps and an exposed heel, a design known for its dramatic flair. Tallulah Willis also embraced platforms, pairing metallic gold chunky Gucci sandals with a sheer black Gucci dress.
"The blend of classic elegance with bold, modern details truly defined the footwear statements at this year's gala."
In a more unexpected turn, thong sandals made a notable appearance. Gaia Repossi was seen in Alaïa heel thong mules made from velvet. This choice signals a potential shift towards more relaxed yet sophisticated footwear options for high-profile events.
Designer Spotlights: Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Valentino
Several major fashion houses dominated the footwear choices, cementing their status as red-carpet favorites. Gucci, in particular, was a recurring name, with multiple stars choosing their designs.
Brand Influence
Gucci's strong presence at the gala, particularly with its spring 2026 collection, indicates the brand's significant influence on current and upcoming fashion trends. Their pointed-toe pumps with metal heels were a standout, worn by several key figures.
Saint Laurent also had a strong showing, with Demi Lovato wearing Amalia slingback pumps in olive green and brown satin crepe. Soo Joo Park opted for Saint Laurent Apolline slingback pumps in black patent leather, showcasing the brand's versatile appeal.
Valentino contributed to the evening's glamour with unique designs. Hannah Einbinder chose the Valentino Garavani Panthea Goatskin Pumps, which retail for $1,600. These pumps featured a pleated upper and an enameled feline head adorned with Swarovski crystals, blending luxury with intricate detailing.
Unique Designs and Masculine Statements
Beyond the dominant trends, some attendees chose footwear that offered a distinct personal touch or broke from traditional norms. Cynthia Erivo, known for her love of platforms, surprised many by opting for Christian Louboutin's Metallic Silver Strass Hot Chick Pumps, a departure from her usual style.
Ryan Destiny made a statement with Cult Gaia's Cassidy sandal in gold, priced at $698. This shoe is a sculptural piece, featuring a calla lily structural detail on the upper, crafted from metallic leather. It exemplifies how footwear can serve as a work of art.
- Christian Louboutin: Cynthia Erivo's choice of metallic silver strass pumps.
- Cult Gaia: Ryan Destiny's sculptural gold Cassidy sandal.
- Prada: Damson Idris's sleek gray leather booties.
Men's footwear also saw a departure from the conventional. Damson Idris, representing the men at the event, chose Prada Leather booties in a chic gray color, moving away from traditional oxford shoes. This demonstrated a more fashion-forward approach to men's formal attire.
The LACMA Art + Film Gala 2025 offered a compelling glimpse into the future of red-carpet fashion, with footwear playing a central role in defining individual styles and setting new trends for the seasons to come.