Top 23 Celebrity Shoe Moments at the 2013 MTV VMAs: Louboutin, Prada & More

More than a decade later, the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards still stand out as one of the most talked‑about red carpets of the early 2010s. From bold platform boots to sleek couture heels, this event captured an era when footwear was as daring as the performances themselves.

In this throwback, we’re revisiting the most memorable celebrity shoe moments from the 2013 VMAs — a lineup featuring names like Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Prada, and Versace — and exploring why these styles remain iconic today.

1. Becky G’s Casual Chic in Adidas Sneakers at the MTV VMAs

Becky G rocked a star-print LaQuan Smith skirt, a tie-dye tee, and red Adidas Basket Profi Up sneakers at the MTV VMAs in Brooklyn, NY, on August 25, 2013 (Credit: Andres Otero / Dan Jackman / Ryan/Visual / TFY CW / WENN)

The most comfortable ensemble we saw on the carpet was that of rapper Becky G. The “Becky from the Block” singer looked relaxed and ready to party in Adidas sneakers paired with a cute star-print skirt and a casual top.

Becky G in comfortable Adidas sneakers for the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards

2. Lil Kim Stands Out in Yellow Louboutin “Daf Booty” Boots

Lil Kim turned heads at the MTV Video Music Awards in a daring black mesh jumpsuit with feathered accents, cinched with a bold gold belt, and paired with eye-catching yellow Christian Louboutin “Daf Booty” ankle boots

Lil Kim always looks different on the red carpet, and the VMAs were no exception. She wore what looked like a leather jumpsuit with holes. It’s not our favorite look at the event, but we love her yellow Christian Louboutin “Daf Booty” shoes!

Other celebrity fans of the Christian Louboutin “Daf Booty” — a bold, high‑end ankle boot with the brand’s iconic red sole — include Michelle Williams!

A close-up of Lil Kim’s bold yellow Christian Louboutin “Daf Booty” ankle boots featuring a towering platform and signature red sole

Her boots added a much-needed pop of color and took some attention away from her questionable outfit. What do you think of Lil Kim’s ensemble?

Christian Louboutin “Daf Booty” in Yellow, $1,395

3. Foxy Brown’s Bold Look With Giuseppe Zanotti “Gaga” Boots

Foxy Brown made a statement at the MTV VMAs in a teal bodycon dress with black lace accents, accessorized with sparkling jewelry, a crystal-studded clutch, and bold spiked Giuseppe Zanotti “Gaga” heel-less boots

Like Lil Kim’s ensemble, Foxy Brown’s tight, revealing outfit did not appeal to us. However, we did like her shoes.

Foxy Brown in Giuseppe Zanotti “Gaga” boots for the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards

She was wearing Giuseppe Zanotti “Gaga” heel-less boots—a fitting name for such a funky pair of shoes. We wish she had paired them with a more subtle attire, though. What about you?

Giuseppe Zanotti “Gaga” Booties, $907.50

4. Melanie Iglesias Shines in Purple With BCBG “Estie” Sandals

Melanie Iglesias stunned at the MTV VMAs in a plunging purple gown with a dramatic train, paired with elegant BCBG “Estie” sandals that featured chic ankle cuffs

A model and a star of the MTV show ‘Girl Code,’ Melanie Iglesias looked simple and stunning in a purple plunging neck gown paired with BCBG “Estie” sandals. We love the designed ankle cuffs on these sandals.

Melanie Iglesias in a stunning purple gown and BCBG “Estie” sandals

5. Selena Gomez in Show-Stopping Atelier Versace Heels

Selena Gomez turned heads at the MTV VMAs in a daring navy Atelier Versace gown with intricate lace detailing and a thigh-high slit, paired with sleek matching Versace pumps

Selena Gomez stunned in head-to-toe Atelier Versace haute couture. She looked sexy yet sweet, even with that thigh-high slit. Her shoes are also from the Fall 2014 Haute Couture collection of Versace, which was presented during Paris Fashion Week in July.

A close-up of Selena Gomez’s chic Versace pumps at the MTV VMAs, showcasing her minimalist pedicure and the sleek, transparent detailing on her heels

Her shoes resemble the Louboutin “Un Bout” PVC pumps. It’s a good thing that Selena didn’t experience any weird foot fog like some other stars did in PVC shoes.

6. Katy Perry’s Animal Print and Celine Sandals Combo

Katy Perry brought fierce energy to the MTV VMAs red carpet in a leopard-print Emanuel Ungaro dress adorned with gold butterflies, paired with simple Celine ankle-strap sandals and a bold grill to complete the wild look

Katy Perry’s closing performance of her latest single, “Roar,” had all of Brooklyn roaring. We guess she was going for animalistic at the VMAs because she wore an animal-printed Ungaro dress for the event.

The singer paired the outfit with simple Celine ankle-strap sandals embellished with gold, matching her golden grills! It looked like Katy was really feeling wild that night.

A close-up of Katy Perry’s black Celine ankle-strap sandals with gold accents, highlighting her minimalist pedicure and delicate foot tattoo

7. Taylor Swift’s Vintage Glam With Prada Platform Sandals

Taylor Swift channeled old Hollywood glamour at the MTV VMAs in a form-fitting navy Hervé Léger gown with a plunging neckline, complemented by vintage curls, bold red lipstick, and sparkling drop earrings

Taylor Swift looked vintage and classy in a long black Herve Ledger dress paired with Prada platform sandals, but her behavior caught on camera was far from sophisticated. We can’t deny that she looked fabulous here and can say the same about her shoes.

A close-up of Taylor Swift’s navy Prada platform sandals at the MTV VMAs, showcasing her classic pedicure and the elegant contrast of black straps against the deep blue suede

8. Rita Ora’s Feathered Alexandre Vauthier Look With Louboutins

Rita Ora dazzled at the MTV VMAs with a sleek blonde bob, natural makeup highlighting her radiant smile, and sparkling diamond earrings that complemented her embellished gown

Rita Ora was not Rita-Ora-like at the VMAs this time. She didn’t have her signature red lips, and her blond hair was slick and sophisticated in a short bob.

Rita Ora dazzled at the MTV Video Music Awards in New York on August 25, 2013, wearing an Alexandre Vauthier Fall 2013 Couture gown paired with Christian Louboutin x Alexandre Vauthier sandals

She was very stylish in a blue Alexandre Vauthier couture dress with a massively long fly of feathers.

Rita Ora made a dramatic entrance at the MTV VMAs in a crystal-embellished gown with a black velvet belt and a cascading feathered train, paired with sleek ankle-strap heels

Like Selena, Rita took the runway look from head to toe and paired the dress with Christian Louboutin for Alexandre Vauthier ankle-strap sandals. Do you like her sleek, sophisticated look?

A close-up of Rita Ora’s Christian Louboutin x Alexandre Vauthier sandals at the MTV VMAs, showcasing her flawless pedicure and the sandals’ sleek black and gold ankle-strap design against her feathered gown

9. Miley Cyrus Embraces Boldness in Zanotti Sandals

Miley Cyrus made a bold statement at the MTV VMAs with her off-the-shoulder crop top and high-waisted leggings adorned with colorful jewels, paired with platform heels and space buns for an edgy look

We don’t know where to begin with Miley Cyrus. While her red carpet look was underwhelming, her vulgar and interesting on-stage performance definitely caught everyone’s attention.

Miley walked the carpet in a Dolce & Gabbana outfit with Giuseppe Zanotti suede sandals. We’re not really sure what else to say about her ensemble. We were far too shocked by her performance to think too much about the attire.

Miley Cyrus caused a stir in Giuseppe Zanotti studded sandals at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards

10. Holland Roden’s Elegant Rupert Sanderson “Hydra” Pumps

Holland Roden in Naeem Khan and Rupert Sanderson “Hydra” pumps at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

Many online media outlets named ‘Teen Wolf’ star Holland Roden one of the best-dressed of the night.

A close-up of Holland Roden’s elegant peep-toe heels showcasing her polished red pedicure that added a pop of color to her look on the red carpet

Her unique Naeem Khan dress garnered attention, especially since she toned down her footwear with Rupert Sanderson nude “Hydra” peep-toe pumps.

11. Lady Gaga Brings Edge in Alaia Platform Boots

Lady Gaga was a fantastic opening act, but her red carpet look wasn’t as good. She wore a dull black Prabal Gurung gown that looked too big. She wore a pair of shoes we’ve seen on her before, her sky-high Alaia boots.

Lady Gaga in Prabal Gurung and her favorite Alaia platform booties at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

Note, however, that although she arrived at the VMAs in this attire, she watched the show in the sexy shell thong bikini she wore in her performance. In the words of Kevin Hart, “Lady Gaga got some @$$.”

12. Jennifer Hudson’s Classic Dior Ensemble With Louboutin “So Kate”

Jennifer Hudson in a monochrome Dior ensemble and Louboutin “So Kate” pumps for the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

Jennifer Hudson went chic and sophisticated with a Dior skirt and top paired with Christian Louboutin’s “So Kate” pumps. The monochrome look suits her.

A close-up of Jennifer Hudson’s classic black Christian Louboutin pumps on the red carpet, showcasing their sleek pointed-toe design and signature elegance

13. Jordin Sparks Adds Sparkle in Diane von Furstenberg “Rafiya” Sandals

Jordin Sparks in all-white and Diane von Furstenberg “Rafiya” sandals at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

While Jennifer went for a black ensemble, fellow ‘American Idol’ alum Jordin Sparks opted for a white high-waist skirt and a crop top. Her Diane von Furstenberg “Rafiya” sandals added a little color and sparkle to her look.

A close-up of Jordin Sparks’ elegant T-strap sandals on the red carpet, highlighting her polished pedicure and the sleek, sparkling details on her footwear

14. Ellie Goulding Goes Nude in Brian Atwood’s “Obsession” Pumps

Ellie Goulding in a spiky dress at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

Ellie Goulding’s dress could probably hurt somebody! The spiked and studded Fern Amato creation had enough going on, so Ellie decided to keep her footwear simple. She wore Brian Atwood’s “Obsession” pumps in nude.

A close-up of Ellie Goulding’s nude Brian Atwood “Obsession” pumps on the red carpet, perfectly complementing her studded gown with their soft, understated elegance

15. Erin Wasson’s Barely-There Look With Zanotti Sandals

Erin Wasson showed us a lot of herself in her see-through dress paired with Giuseppe Zanotti sandals at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

It looks like holed and see-through dresses were the theme of this year’s VMAs and supermodel Erin Wasson was one of the ladies who followed suit.

She paired the barely-there Alexandre Vauthier dress with Giuseppe Zanotti black sandals with clear stilettos. Do you like what she was wearing?

A close-up of Erin Wasson’s black Giuseppe Zanotti sandals, featuring elegant crisscross straps and a towering stiletto heel, perfectly complementing her sheer gown on the red carpet

16. Zoey Deutch Keeps It Simple in Saint Laurent “Janis” Pumps

Zoey Deutch in a sparkly gold outfit paired with Saint Laurent “Janis” pumps at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

‘Ringer’ star Zoey Deutch sparkled in a gold outfit with a knee-length skirt and a top paired with Saint Laurent “Janis” pumps. She was one of the stars who kept their ensembles safe and simple for the event.

A close-up of Zoey Deutch’s classic black patent leather T-strap pumps featuring a chic platform and elegant pointed toe

17. Sarah Hyland Channels Modesty in Casadei Sandals

Sarah Hyland looking matronly in a Marchesa dress and Casadei sandals at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

‘Modern Family’ actress Sarah Hyland didn’t look like her TV character, Hailey, in a modest Marchesa dress and strappy black Casadei sandals. We don’t think the dress did justice to her fabulous physique; she looked almost matronly. Don’t you agree?

A close-up of Sarah Hyland’s elegant black and gold platform sandals featuring intricate T-strap detailing

18. Deena Cortese Rocks Curvy Confidence With London Trash “Ceres” Boots

Deena Cortese rocked the MTV VMAs red carpet in a chic white peplum mini dress with black accents, paired with edgy black platform booties and a statement beaded necklace

Deena Cortese of Jersey Shore gave a shout-out to all the curvy girls on MTV’s Red Carpet Report. The voluptuous gal wore a peplum dress from Bebe paired with sky-high London Trash “Ceres” boots that reminded us of Christian Louboutin’s “Zoulou” sandals.

Deena Cortese boosts her height with black London Trash “Ceres” sky-high suede booties

19. Jillian Rose Reed in Bold L.A.M.B. Color-Blocked Sandals

Jillian Rose Reed in a color-blocked ensemble at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

Jillian Rose Reed, the actress playing Tamara in MTV’s ‘Awkward,’ didn’t look “amazeballs” in her Three Floor color-blocked dress paired with L.A.M.B. color-blocked shoes. There was too much color blocking. Do you like her ensemble?

A close-up of Jillian Rose Reed’s unique block-heeled sandals featuring a modern mix of beige and black panels

20. Tanisha Long’s Playful Look With Pink Prada Sandals

Tanisha Long in a purple Ted Baker dress and pink Prada sandals at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

‘Girl Code’ star Tanisha Long followed co-star Melanie’s color theme with a short purple Ted Baker dress. She kept her ensemble playful and colorful with pink Prada cage sandals.

Tanisha Long’s vibrant pink Prada platform sandals featuring crisscross straps and a chunky heel

21. Ariana Grande’s Sweet Style With Classic White Pumps

Ariana Grande in a Kenley Collins creation and white pumps at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

Ariana Grande stuck to her fashion MO with a cute floral-print dress by ‘Project Runway’ alum Kenley Collins. She paired the dress with white pointy-toe pumps.

She looked super sweet in this ensemble. Many online media outlets also named her one of the best-dressed at the VMAs because of her simple style.

Ariana Grande complemented her red carpet look with sleek white pointed-toe pumps

22. Iggy Azalea’s Golden Look Topped With T-Strap Sandals

Iggy Azalea in a golden-girl look at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

Iggy Azalea may not have won the MoonMan for this year’s Artist to Watch, but she seemed happy presenting an award with her hip-hop idol Lil Kim.

Iggy was another celebrity in a see-through gown that covered just the right parts of her body. With her blond updo and gold T-strap sandals, she was a golden girl from top to bottom. Can you help us ID them?

Iggy Azalea matched her gold-embellished gown with delicate metallic heels, showcasing a gold-toned pedicure

23. Paula Patton’s Shimmery Look With Silver Cap-Toe Pumps

Paula Patton in a shimmery outfit at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on August 25, 2013

Paula Patton was not one of the best dressed at the VMAs, but we give her mad props for not ripping Miley Cyrus to shreds after the latter’s risqué performance with her husband, Robin Thicke.

She was reportedly fine with it because she knew exactly what would happen. We only wish her ensemble at the event was just as cool as her attitude.

It was a little too sparkly for our taste. Her metallic silver cap-toe pumps didn’t match her bronze, shimmery outfit. It’s a good thing we could barely see her shoes.

Paula Patton completed her look with chic metallic cap-toe pumps

Who gets your vote for the best-dressed celebrity?

More Iconic MTV VMA Shoe Moments

From daring platforms to timeless stilettos, the MTV VMAs have always been a showcase for bold and unforgettable footwear. If you enjoyed revisiting these standout 2013 looks, explore more of our favorite shoe moments from past VMA red carpets below: