Dakota Johnson Gives Underwater Vibes in Fish-Motif Bode Dress and Bottega Veneta Mules at TIFF

Dakota Johnson has long been a red-carpet muse, but her appearance at the 48th Annual Toronto International Film Festival remains one of her most memorable fashion moments.

Attending the premiere of her film Daddio on September 10, 2023, at the TIFF Bell Lightbox, the actress proved why her collaborative work with stylist Kate Young consistently defines modern elegance.

While the festival was marked by a unique industry climate, Johnson’s wardrobe took center stage, specifically through her choice of artisanal textures and high-fashion footwear.

Dakota Johnson Stuns at TIFF in Bode’s Fish-Motif Kaftan and Bottega Veneta Knot Mule Sandals

She arrived in a nude-toned maxi dress from Bode’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection—a kaftan-style silhouette that perfectly balanced Bohemian ease with red-carpet sophistication.

Dakota Johnson making a captivating entrance in a kaftan-style outfit from Bode’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection at the premiere of Daddio during the 48th Toronto International Film Festival in Toronto, Canada, on September 10, 2023 (Credit: Captive Camera / Cover Images)

The Whimsical Fish-Motif Bode Dress From the Spring 2024 Collection

The Ben and Kate star’s flowy attire boasted slight slits on either side and a scalloped hemline. But this ethereal long-sleeved dress stood out for its captivating, colorful fish motif.

Dakota’s outfit transported the audience to a mesmerizing underwater world, with intricate blue coral and a lively ensemble of green-and-red-spotted fish swimming across the fabric.

This whimsical design was not just a fashion statement but a tribute to Bode’s recurring theme, showcasing the beauty of fish-themed creations.

The 21 Jump Street actress paired the sheer dress with a seemingly beige bodysuit to maintain modesty, achieving a perfect balance of allure and elegance.

Dakota Johnson donned a beige bodysuit underneath her dress to maintain modesty and wore Bulgari jewelry for a touch of sparkle (Credit: Captive Camera / Cover Images)

Bulgari Jewelry and the Iconic Gucci “Jackie” Bag Add Classic Luxury

Adding a touch of sophistication to her ensemble was a glimmering Bulgari 18K rose-gold Serpenti necklace featuring a delicate gold chain and an emerald pendant, which she paired with a matching ring.

Her lustrous brunette locks cascaded gracefully over her shoulders, perfectly complementing her signature bangs. Warm-toned makeup highlighted her cheekbones, while a matte lip shade completed her look.

No Dakota Johnson ensemble would be complete without a hint of Gucci, and she carried a black leather version of the “Jackie” bag from the Italian fashion house. Her longstanding relationship with Gucci as a muse and brand ambassador added a touch of luxury to her outfit.

Dakota Johnson carried a black leather version of the “Jackie” bag from Gucci and slipped into a pair of Bottega Veneta knot mule sandals (Credit: Abaca Press / INSTARimages)

Bordeaux Bottega Veneta Knot Mule Sandals Complete the Look

Her natural, short nails sported a muted purple manicure that harmonized flawlessly with her footwear. Dakota slipped into a pair of Bordeaux Bottega Veneta knot mule sandals, rounding off her ensemble with impeccable taste.

Dakota’s knot mules also echo a wider trend of sculptural Bottega Veneta footwear appearing across celebrity wardrobes. For example, Chrissy Teigen once stepped out in crisp white square-toe Bottega Veneta mules, proving how the Italian label’s minimalist silhouettes can transform even the most relaxed street-style look into a fashion statement.

The brand’s experimental side has also made its way onto the red carpet. At the premiere of Dexter: New Blood, Jamie Chung embraced playful texture with turquoise feather-trimmed Bottega Veneta sandals, pairing the dramatic heels with a vibrant Jonathan Simkhai suit for a bold fashion moment.

Moments like these highlight why Bottega Veneta remains a favorite among stylists and celebrities alike. Known for its signature intrecciato craftsmanship and quietly luxurious aesthetic, the Milanese house has built a reputation for footwear that blends architectural design with effortless elegance—qualities that Dakota Johnson’s refined mule sandals capture perfectly.

Dakota Johnson with Sean Penn and Christy Hall at the Daddio premiere during the 48th Toronto International Film Festival (Credit: Captive Camera / Cover Images)

Inside the premiere party, Dakota, who starred in and produced the movie, had the pleasure of reuniting with her fellow Daddio co-star and director, Sean Penn.

She was also joined by writer and director Christy Hall and producer Ro Donnelly for a memorable celebration.

Dakota Johnson pairs her whimsical fish-print Bode kaftan with Bordeaux Bottega Veneta knot mule sandals while Ro Donnelly complements her olive blazer and plaid mini skirt with knee-high suede boots at the Daddio premiere (Credit: Captive Camera / Cover Images)

The Story Behind Dakota Johnson’s Film Daddio

Daddio explores the intricate web of human connections and underscores how a chance encounter with a stranger can profoundly transform one’s life.

It tells the story of a young woman, portrayed by Dakota Johnson, who takes a taxi from JFK Airport in New York City. During the journey, she engages in a captivating and unexpected conversation with the cab driver, Clark, played by Sean Penn.

Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn play opposite each other in Daddio, a dynamic drama film about human connection (Credit: Captive Camera / Cover Images)

What begins as light-hearted chitchat takes a mysterious, playful turn, eventually leading to raw, honest revelations about relationships, power dynamics, loss, and vulnerability.

Rated R for its candid language and sexual content, this contained yet dynamic drama primarily centers on the intense dialogue between Johnson and Penn.

While the film’s cast is minimalist, the production carries significant weight, as Dakota served as a producer alongside Ro Donnelly through their company, TeaTime Pictures, with Academy Award nominee Emma Tillinger Koskoff also attached.

Dakota Johnson’s Quietly Bold Fashion Formula: Artful Dresses and Statement Shoes

Dakota Johnson’s appearance at the Daddio premiere once again proved why she remains one of Hollywood’s most compelling red-carpet dressers. By pairing Bode’s whimsical fish-motif kaftan with refined accessories—from Bulgari jewelry to Bottega Veneta knot mule sandals—she demonstrated her signature balance of artistry and understated glamour. It’s this ability to mix playful design with sophisticated footwear that continues to define Dakota’s evolving fashion narrative.