A Velvet Statement: Zoe Saldaña’s Crystal-Embroidered Gucci Moment at LACMA 2017

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Zoe Saldaña stepped onto the 2017 LACMA Art + Film Gala red carpet with the kind of modern glamour that has kept her a fixture on best-dressed lists for more than a decade.

Joining fellow style forces Kerry Washington and Kim Kardashian, the actress delivered a look that still feels timeless today.

Zoe Saldaña showcases sleek glam with a polished updo and bold red lip, highlighting the sculptural floral details on her Gucci gownZoe Saldaña showcases sleek glam with a polished updo and bold red lip, highlighting the sculptural floral details on her Gucci gown

Her velvet Gucci Fall 2017 gown balanced richness and whimsy: crystal-embroidered ray appliqués shimmered along the sleeves, a sleek satin waistband added structure, and the collar bloomed with handcrafted silk 3D florals—a striking choice for Saldaña, who stands 5 feet 6 ½ inches (168.9 cm) and is known for using heels to subtly elongate her frame, even when—like here—they disappear completely beneath the dress.

The actress poses confidently in her crystal-studded Gucci capelet, letting the dramatic rose appliqués take center stageThe actress poses confidently in her crystal-studded Gucci capelet, letting the dramatic rose appliqués take center stage

Styled by Petra Flannery and accented with Neil Jane jewelry, the ensemble remains one of Saldaña’s most memorable LACMA appearances, offering a masterclass in statement eveningwear that doesn’t rely on trends to feel current.

Turning to the side, Zoe reveals the dimensional sparkle and lace-trimmed layers of her embellished Gucci capeletTurning to the side, Zoe reveals the dimensional sparkle and lace-trimmed layers of her embellished Gucci capelet

Zoe delivers full red-carpet elegance in her floor-length black velvet Gucci gown topped with a statement floral capeZoe delivers full red-carpet elegance in her floor-length black velvet Gucci gown topped with a statement floral cape

The sweeping silhouette of Zoe’s velvet skirt adds fluid movement to her sculptural, rose-adorned lookThe sweeping silhouette of Zoe’s velvet skirt adds fluid movement to her sculptural, rose-adorned look

Her floor-length velvet Gucci gown skims the carpet, subtly concealing the heels she often uses to elongate her 5 ft 6½ in (168.9 cm) frameHer floor-length velvet Gucci gown skims the carpet, subtly concealing the heels she often uses to elongate her 5 ft 6½ in (168.9 cm) frame at the 2017 LACMA Art + Film Gala presented by Gucci at LACMA in Los Angeles on November 4, 2017 (Credit: Brian To / WENN)

Zoe Saldaña’s Signature Shoe Moments: A Curated Wrap-Up

Before we close, it’s worth highlighting the footwear choices that have shaped Zoe Saldaña’s red-carpet identity over the years. From sculptural heels to classic pumps and experimental silhouettes, her shoe game has consistently mirrored her fashion evolution—bold, refined, and always intentional.

Below, explore a curated selection of her most memorable style moments, each one showcasing why Saldaña remains a perennial favorite in both fashion and film.

👠 Zoe Saldaña: Footwear and Fashion Highlights: