Here’s an improved version of your introduction incorporating Indya Moore’s quote for a stronger, more engaging opening:
The 2011 Met Ball Gala was one of the most anticipated, fashion-centric events of the year, where A-listers and industry elites gathered in their most extravagant ensembles. As Indya Moore once said, “It’s the Met Gala—everyone is huge. It feels very hierarchical, and I get really nervous in hierarchical spaces because I feel like everyone deserves to feel just as special as everyone else, but that’s just not the way it is in this business.” And while dramatic gowns and high-profile fashion moments often dominate the red carpet, we believe every element of an outfit—especially the shoes—deserves its own spotlight.
Unfortunately, like most formal events, all the long dresses made it hard to go shoe-stalking. But thankfully, some gowns were more forgiving, giving us a glimpse of the stunning footwear choices that completed these looks.
From the ones that got photographed, here are the shoes that caught our eye—worn by women who know that the right pair isn’t just an accessory but a statement worthy of attention.
Sarah Jessica Parker Stuns in Manolo Blahnik Blixa Pumps
Sarah Jessica Parker glittered in Fred Leighton earrings at the MET Ball held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 2, 2011, in New York City (Credit: Lia Toby / Ivan Nikolov / WENN / Flashpoint / L. Gallo)
Sarah Jessica Parker stuns in satin seafoam green Manolo Blahnik Blixa pointed-toe pumps, perfectly complementing her dazzling Alexander McQueen Fall 2005 metallic dress at the Met Gala
Daphne Guinness Defies Gravity in Heel-Less Silver Platforms
Daphne Guinness makes a dramatic entrance in avant-garde heel-less silver platform Mary Janes, effortlessly complementing her ethereal feathered gown at the Met Gala
Kristen Stewart Rocks Proenza Schouler Triple Buckle Sandals
Kristen Stewart exudes effortless glamour in a striking geometric Proenza Schouler dress, complemented by flawless makeup
Kristen Stewart commands attention in the snake-embossed leather Proenza Schouler Fall 2011 triple-buckle strap sandals, perfectly complementing her bold geometric gown at the Met Gala
Rihanna Turns Heads in Christian Louboutin Balota Sandals
Rihanna’s fiery red hair, styled in sleek double braids, perfectly complemented her striking green dangling earrings, creating a bold and elegant contrast
Rihanna completes her bold Met Gala look with black suede Christian Louboutin Balota platform sandals
Rihanna dazzled in a sheer, one-sleeved black lace Stella McCartney gown featuring intricate embroidery and a dramatic floor-sweeping train that exuded bold elegance
Jessica Stam Elevates Her Look with Roger Vivier Jewel Buckle Sandals
Jessica Stam stuns at the Met Gala in a dreamy blush-toned Tommy Hilfiger Collection gown paired with Roger Vivier heels, a Chopard necklace, and Cathy Waterman rings
Jessica Stam dazzles in Roger Vivier Fall 2011 jewel buckle strap sandals, but her toes seem just as eager to make a red carpet debut of their own
Miranda Kerr Dazzles in Nicholas Kirkwood Lace-Up Platform Sandals
Miranda Kerr radiates elegance with a sleek, low chignon hairstyle, dewy skin, rosy cheeks, and a glossy pink lip
Miranda Kerr channels ethereal elegance in a Marchesa Fall 2011 White Swan embroidered dress, perfectly paired with Nicholas Kirkwood Spring 2011 lace ankle boots at the Met Gala
Miranda Kerr steps out in Nicholas Kirkwood Spring 2011 lace-up platform sandals featuring delicate lace detailing and sculptural heels that add a touch of modern romance to her Met Gala look
Ashley Olsen Keeps It Classic in Christian Louboutin Pigalle Pumps
Ashley Olsen pictured with Christian Louboutin in the midnight blue color of the Christian Louboutin Pigalle Crocodile pumps
Ginnifer Goodwin Stands Out in Aperlaï Snake-Embossed Slingbacks
Ginnifer Goodwin stuns in Aperlaï Spring 2011 snake-embossed strappy slingback sandals, adding a bold and modern edge to her striking emerald green gown at the Met Gala
Gwyneth Paltrow Exudes Elegance in Christian Louboutin Hyper Prive Pumps
Gwyneth Paltrow glows in a dazzling gown while posing with Lea Michele, completing her look with sleek Christian Louboutin Hyper Prive pumps for an effortlessly chic Met Gala moment
Leighton Meester Takes a Bold Step in Louis Vuitton Cage Booties
Leighton Meester shines with a radiant smile, sleek pulled-back hair, luminous dewy makeup, and dazzling Cathy Waterman diamond mesh earrings that add the perfect touch of elegance
Leighton Meester brings an edgy flair to the Met Gala in a sleek Louis Vuitton dress paired with striking Louis Vuitton Fall 2011 cage booties and Cathy Waterman diamond mesh jewelry
More Must-See Met Gala Fashion and Footwear Moments
For those captivated by the fusion of fashion and footwear at the Met Gala, our archives offer a treasure trove of insights. Explore how Nicole Kidman revived vintage elegance in a Balenciaga gown at the 2024 Met Gala, or delve into Emily Ratajkowski’s daring choice of a sheer, embellished Versace dress that same year.
Brie Larson’s interpretation of ‘The Garden of Time’ theme in a custom Prada ensemble is another highlight worth reading. Each article provides a detailed look at how these celebrities seamlessly blend style and statement, offering inspiration for fashion enthusiasts and shoe lovers alike.