A-Listers Embrace Sheer Footwear Trend, Flaunting Toes on Red Carpets

The summer and autumn seasons have seen a notable rise in sheer and minimalist footwear among celebrities, with A-listers increasingly choosing to display their toes on red carpets and at fashion events. This trend, characterized by transparent materials and designs that leave feet largely exposed, has appeared on stars ranging from actors to members of the Royal Family.

Actress Margaret Qualley was seen in August wearing Chanel 'barefoot sandals' priced at approximately $2,200 to a London premiere. These minimalist shoes, featuring little more than thin leather straps and a heel cap, have been described by some as the 'ugliest' shoes in the world, sparking debate online about their practicality and aesthetic.

More recently, actor Alexander Skarsgard attended the BFI London Film Festival for the premiere of his new film, "Wicker." He opted for transparent lace-up Derbies from Saint Laurent's Spring/Summer 2027 collection. The unusual choice drew attention and commentary on social media, with some noting their potential discomfort and others observing how they suited him.

Other notable figures embracing the sheer footwear trend include Melanie C, who wore transparent stilettos to an event in Los Angeles, and Kourtney Kardashian and Dua Lipa, who have been seen in black fishnet ballet flats by Alaïa, retailing around $890. Singer Ciara has also sported see-through heels, including a pair with transparent acrylic glass inserts retailing for about $710.

Actresses Anne Hathaway and Chrissy Teigen have both appeared in Gianvito Rossi slingback pumps featuring transparent bases. Victoria Beckham has showcased her own designs, including 'Cinderella' stilettos with clear heels and soles, priced between $515 and $790.

Even the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has adopted the trend, recently seen in sheer ballet flats from Aquazzura, known as the 'Voile' style, which cost approximately $775. These flats feature a sheer mesh texture and a subtle bow.

Daisy Edgar Jones was also spotted in see-through heels from Saint Laurent's pre-fall 2026 collection during Paris Fashion Week. The trend extends to men's fashion as well, with Saint Laurent's Spring/Summer 2027 collection for men featuring completely plastic, Oxford-style dress shoes where the entire foot is visible.