Ellie Goulding’s 2016 BRIT Awards Look: Versace Tread-Sole Platform Boots & Just Cavalli

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On February 25, 2016, the London fashion scene converged at The Arts Club for the Sony Music BRIT Awards afterparty.

Among the high-profile attendees was Ellie Goulding, who stepped out in a dark, textural ensemble that leaned into the year’s penchant for edgy, high-shine fabrics.

Ellie Goulding wears her blonde hair down at the Sony Music BRIT Awards 2016 PartyEllie Goulding wears her blonde hair down at the Sony Music BRIT Awards 2016 Party held on February 25, 2016, at the Arts Club in London (Credit: Will Alexander / WENN)

While much of the night’s buzz focused on her high-profile companions—including Karlie Kloss and Lorde—it was Goulding’s choice of footwear that caught the attention of shoe enthusiasts.

Ellie Goulding arrives at the BRIT Awards afterparty in a shimmering leopard-embossed Just Cavalli mini dress styled with towering black Versace platform bootsEllie Goulding arrives at the BRIT Awards afterparty in a shimmering leopard-embossed Just Cavalli mini dress styled with towering black Versace platform boots

Ellie opted for an all-black look featuring a Just Cavalli pleated leopard-embossed shimmer dress. The garment utilized a layered skirt and a high-neck silhouette, providing a structural contrast to her accessories.

The standout element of the outfit was her choice of Versace platform boots from the brand’s Spring 2016 collection. These boots, characterized by their rugged tread and substantial height, added a utilitarian edge to the dress’s delicate pleating.

A close-up reveals the sculptural open-toe Versace platforms, featuring thick ankle cuffs, crisscross leather panels, and a bold stacked heelA close-up reveals the sculptural open-toe Versace platforms, featuring thick ankle cuffs, crisscross leather panels, and a bold stacked heel

While the Little Black Dress (LBD) is often considered a safe fashion choice, Goulding’s iteration experimented with volume and fabric density.

The shimmer-embossed leopard print and the heavy tiers of the skirt created a silhouette that challenged traditional evening-wear proportions, leaning more toward a “grunge-glam” aesthetic.

From the back, the halter-style silhouette of her textured mini dress contrasts with the heavy, architectural boots as she steps into her carFrom the back, the halter-style silhouette of her textured mini dress contrasts with the heavy, architectural boots as she steps into her car

Beyond the fashion, the evening was a celebration of the tight-knit British music community. Goulding later shared a glimpse of the night on social media, posing with her industry peers during the post-awards festivities.

Ellie Goulding hangs out with Lorde, Karlie Kloss, and James Bay at the 2016 BRIT Awards Post PartyEllie Goulding hangs out with Lorde, Karlie Kloss, and James Bay at the 2016 BRIT Awards Post Party (Credit: Ellie Goulding’s Instagram)

Versace Platforms: The Enduring Power of Height, Hardware & High-Impact Glamour

From towering Medusa-embellished sandals to sharply sculpted pumps and dramatic red-carpet platforms, Versace continues to redefine bold femininity through architectural footwear.

Whether styled with shimmering minis, tailored suiting, or statement gowns, the brand’s elevated silhouettes prove that height is more than a measurement — it’s an attitude. Explore more standout Versace platform moments, celebrity pairings, and authentication insights below.

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