On August 20, actress Margaret Qualley stepped onto the red carpet in London for the premiere of her upcoming film The Dog Stars. While her black, fringed dress from Chanel’s Matthieu Blazy Cruise 2027 collection attracted attention, it was the shoes that dominated the conversation.
Chanel’s barefoot sandal design
Qualley wore a pair of Chanel “barefoot” sandals that feature a leather heel cap, the brand’s iconic logo, and ankle ties that leave the soles and toes fully exposed. The design blurs the line between traditional footwear and the look of going barefoot, a style that has been gaining traction among fashion insiders and celebrities alike.
Public reaction and the broader trend
Social media users quickly divided over the sandals. Some praised the daring, avant‑garde aesthetic, calling it a fresh take on minimalist red‑carpet style. Others questioned whether the shoes qualify as proper footwear, noting the exposed toes and soles could be impractical for a formal event.
The conversation reflects a larger movement in high fashion toward “barefoot” or barely‑there shoes. Recent runway shows and celebrity appearances have featured similar designs, suggesting designers are experimenting with new ways to showcase elegance while challenging conventional notions of dress shoes.
Availability and alternatives
Chanel has not announced a retail release for the specific sandal worn by Qualley, and the pair is not currently purchasable. Fashion outlets, however, have highlighted comparable black, strappy sandals that retail for under $70, offering fans a more affordable way to emulate the look.
Film details
“The Dog Stars,” directed by Ridley Scott, is set to open in theaters and IMAX on Friday, August 28, with preview screenings beginning Thursday, August 27. The cast includes Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin, Guy Pearce, Benedict Wong and Allison Janney, adapting Peter Heller’s post‑apocalyptic novel.
While the film’s release generates its own buzz, Qualley’s fashion choice has become a cultural talking point, illustrating how celebrity style can influence broader fashion trends.
Original reporting: Las Cruces Sun News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
