Why Julianne Hough’s 2016 Navy Monique Lhuillier Look Still Defines Red-Carpet Minimalism

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In January 2016, Julianne Hough stepped out at the Fox Winter TCA All-Star Party at the Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena in a romantic navy look that balanced soft detailing with one of Hollywood’s most enduring red-carpet shoe staples: the Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” sandal.

Julianne Hough clips her blonde hair backJulianne Hough clips her blonde hair back at the FOX Winter TCA 2016 All-Star Party held on January 15, 2016, at the Langham Huntington Hotel in California (Credit: FayesVision / Adriana M. Barraza / Nicky Nelson / WENN)

Earlier that day, the actress and dancer appeared on the “Grease: Live” panel, where she reflected on taking on the role of Sandy Olsson and on receiving encouragement from Olivia Newton-John, who famously originated the character.

Julianne Hough balanced sheer star embroidery with minimalist Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” sandals, letting the barely-there heels ground the flowing Monique Lhuillier gown without overpowering itJulianne Hough balanced sheer star embroidery with minimalist Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” sandals, letting the barely-there heels ground the flowing Monique Lhuillier gown without overpowering it

“When I met her, I didn’t even say anything to her at first,” Julianne revealed.

“She just said, ‘I hear you’re playing Sandy. Oh, my goodness, Congratulations. You’re just perfect for it,’ and I was just like, almost started crying.”

“This is my hero, this is my five-year-old dream, so for her to give me that blessing… I hope I make her proud.”

The open back and asymmetrical hem of Julianne Hough’s navy satin dress highlighted the leg-lengthening effect of her delicate black ankle-strap sandalsThe open back and asymmetrical hem of Julianne Hough’s navy satin dress highlighted the leg-lengthening effect of her delicate black ankle-strap sandals

Julianne wore a flowing navy gown from Monique Lhuillier’s collection that paired sheer star embroidery with a relaxed silhouette, letting the delicate straps of her black Stuart Weitzman heels remain visible beneath the high-low hem.

Her elegant navy satin gown flowed loosely around her body and featured a star-embroidered sheer mesh yoke, long sleeves, and a high-low hem.

Julianne Hough paired celestial mesh detailing with sleek black “Nudist” heels, creating a soft red-carpet look built around movement and clean linesJulianne Hough paired celestial mesh detailing with sleek black “Nudist” heels, creating a soft red-carpet look built around movement and clean lines

Keeping the focus on the dress and shoes, Julianne styled the look with EF Collection rings, a black Kotur clutch, and minimalist black Stuart Weitzman sandals. The slim ankle straps and barely-there silhouette complemented the gown’s airy movement without competing with its embroidered details.

She finished the outfit with a loosely pinned, side-swept updo and soft peach-toned makeup that matched the ensemble’s understated feel.

On her feet were the Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” sandals in black goosebump leather, one of the most influential red-carpet shoe designs of the 2010s.

Julianne Hough’s feet in black Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” sandals featuring the signature ultra-thin toe strap and barely-there silhouette that made the style a Hollywood stapleJulianne Hough’s feet in black Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” sandals featuring the signature ultra-thin toe strap and barely-there silhouette that made the style a Hollywood staple

How Stuart Weitzman’s “Nudist” Sandals Became Hollywood’s Go-To Barely-There Heel

Often described as the footwear equivalent of the “little black dress,” the barely-there silhouette became a Hollywood styling staple after its 2013 debut thanks to its ultra-thin toe strap, delicate ankle strap, and leg-lengthening stiletto heel.

Loved by stylists for its versatility, the minimalist sandal worked seamlessly with everything from dramatic couture gowns to sleek slip dresses, helping elongate the leg without distracting from the outfit itself.

👠 Explore Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” Red-Carpet Moments: