Jada Pinkett Smith vs. Taraji P. Henson: Who Rocked These Nicholas Kirkwood Neon Pumps?

Few footwear designs capture the electric energy of the early 2010s quite like Nicholas Kirkwood’s neon-print pumps. Defined by a 5-inch curved heel and a graffiti-inspired silk-satin finish, these architectural platforms became an instant favorite for celebrities looking to make a bold color statement.

The trend first caught our eye when Jada Pinkett Smith stepped out in the vibrant heels in Manhattan in February 2013. Shortly after, Taraji P. Henson proved the shoe’s versatility by pairing the same neon-lemon pumps with a Mary Katrantzou digital-print dress for a screening of Mud at the Museum of Modern Art in April 2013.

While both stars leaned into the neon aesthetic, their styling choices offered two distinct vibes. Take a look at the side-by-side comparison and decide: who wore these Kirkwood classics best?

Jada Pinkett Smith showcases effortless New York street style with soft waves, layered gold jewelry, and a relaxed ivory blouse on February 26, 2013 (Credit: Mr. Blue / TNYF / WENN)

Check out her street style, which included a white coat, a white top, and white neon-trimmed Les Chiffoniers pants that perfectly complemented her neon Nicholas Kirkwood pumps.

Stepping out in Manhattan, Jada pairs a flowing white ensemble with neon-striped trousers and bold Nicholas Kirkwood pumps that echo the vibrant color accents

The eye-catching Nicholas Kirkwood pumps are made of neon-lemon silk-satin material and feature a graffiti-inspired design, square toes, 5-inch sexy curved heels, and 2-inch hidden platforms.

A closer look at Jada’s statement Nicholas Kirkwood heels reveals a striking graffiti-inspired neon print, sculptural curved heel, and dramatic platform silhouette

Both sported the pumps with outfits featuring neon green shades. Jada paired hers with pants, while Taraji wore the pumps with a printed dress, a cropped neon blazer, and matching neon nails.

Taraji’s ‘Starsailor’ printed stretch-jersey dress is from the Mary Katrantzou Spring 2013 collection.

Taraji P. Henson lights up the evening with glossy waves, oversized gold hoops, and a neon-lime blazer layered over a bold graphic dress

At a New York screening, Taraji P. Henson pairs a vibrant Mary Katrantzou printed dress with a cropped neon blazer and statement Nicholas Kirkwood pumps at The Cinema Society with FIJI Water and Levi’s screening of Mud at The Museum of Modern Art on April 21, 2013

More Nicholas Kirkwood Moments Worth Bookmarking

If Jada Pinkett Smith and Taraji P. Henson’s neon-print pumps made you miss the early-2010s era of fearless statement heels, there’s plenty more Nicholas Kirkwood inspiration to explore—from sculptural red-carpet sandals to runway-worthy lucite-heel pumps and iconic fashion-show footwear.