On August 16, 2016, Elle Fanning arrived at Variety’s “Power of Young Hollywood” event in Los Angeles, channeling 1980s pop-culture royalty.
The Maleficent actress, celebrating her status as a then-rising industry powerhouse, chose a look that paid direct homage to Madonna’s “Material Girl” era.
Elle Fanning channels ’80s glam with soft waves and a corset-style Marc Jacobs dress at Variety’s Power of Young Hollywood event on August 16, 2016 (Credit: Michael Boardman / WENN)
The younger Fanning sibling—and Variety cover star—coordinated her ensemble with the Queen of Pop’s 58th birthday.
She opted for an eclectic, sheer-layered dress from the Marc Jacobs Resort 2017 collection, telling WWD that the heavy ’80s inspiration was a deliberate nod to the music icon.
Posing with confidence, Elle Fanning shows off the full silhouette of her embellished Marc Jacobs Resort 2017 gown
The ankle-length chiffon dress featured black spaghetti straps, a sheer corset-like top worn over a strapless purple bra, chain embellishments, and all-over appliqués and pins.
The actress embraces ’80s flair in a Madonna-inspired Marc Jacobs dress featuring sequin detailing and visible corsetry
The star of “The Neon Demon” finished her look with Marc Jacobs satin pumps and jewelry from Tiffany & Co.
A closer look at Elle Fanning’s choice of footwear—satin Marc Jacobs pumps with a sleek, pointed toe
Elle appeared visibly nervous while delivering her speech, often glancing downward and pausing between sentences, but her vulnerability made the moment feel all the more genuine.
During her remarks, she reflected on the honor of being featured on Variety’s cover and expressed gratitude to the publication for supporting Real Girl, a global nonprofit that empowers young women through education and mentorship.
While this 2016 look remains a standout example of her experimental style, the actress has continued to evolve her red-carpet presence with increasingly sophisticated footwear choices.
👠 Explore Recent Elle Fanning Shoe & Style Highlights:
- 📏 Elle Fanning’s retro power suit with black pointed-toe Saint Laurent heels and butter-yellow Prada gown with gold pumps at the A Complete Unknown premiere blends masculine tailoring with feminine glamour.
- 🌟 Elle Fanning radiates in pastel Valentino and lavender pumps — a dreamy look that highlights her flair for whimsical, romantic fashion.
- 🎥 Elle Fanning stuns in a vintage John Galliano slip dress and open-toe heels at a Roku Gin campaign, bringing old-Hollywood charm to the present day.
- 💃 Elle Fanning makes a case for clogs in a pastel-pink coat and wide-leg pants — elevating airport style with a playful twist on normcore.
Shop the Look: Jimmy Choo “Anouk” Pumps as a Chic Alternative
Although the Marc Jacobs pumps are not available online, you can check out the similarly classic “Anouk” pump from Jimmy Choo on Farfetch and Mytheresa.
The iconic Jimmy Choo “Anouk” pump in black suede, known for its sleek pointy toe and 120 mm stiletto heel
Iconic History: Standout Footwear from Variety’s Annual Bash
Since Elle’s Madonna-inspired moment in 2016, the Variety “Power of Young Hollywood” red carpet has transformed into a premier stage for the next generation of style icons to showcase their fashion identities.
From archival revivals to cutting-edge footwear trends, the event continues to define the aesthetic of the industry’s rising elite.
👠 Power of Young Hollywood Fashion Highlights:
- 📏 Maddie Ziegler turns heads in a sheer Alberta Ferretti mesh top paired with Jimmy Choo Farley pumps at the 2023 Variety Power of Young Hollywood event—an edgy mix of texture and transparency.
- 🌟 Madison Bailey goes wild in a full leopard-print Michael Kors look topped with sheer Dolce & Gabbana mesh boots at the 2023 Variety Young Hollywood bash.
- 💃 Chloë Grace Moretz embraces Old Hollywood glam in a Marchesa dress and lace Jimmy Choo “Romy” pumps at the 2017 event.