The Best Shoes at the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards: Heels, Pumps, and Sandals

The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards officially kicked off awards season, celebrating the past year’s best films and TV shows in Santa Monica. The ceremony was held at the Barker Hangar and hosted by Chelsea Handler for the fourth time, bringing together many of the industry’s biggest names for one of the first major stops on the awards circuit.

One Battle After Another, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, stood out as one of the night’s biggest winners. The film took home three awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Timothée Chalamet, who arrived in a matching orange look with his girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, won Best Actor for his role in Marty Supreme, while Jessie Buckley earned Best Actress for Hamnet.

Frankenstein, starring Jacob Elordi, and Sinners, led by Michael B. Jordan, tied for the most wins of the night with four each. Elordi also picked up Best Supporting Actor. On the TV side, Adolescence led the night with four wins, followed by The Pitt and The Studio, which both earned three awards.

Celebrities line up on the Critics’ Choice Awards black carpet at the Barker Hangar at Santa Monica Airport on January 4, 2026, showcasing a spectrum of red-carpet footwear—from pointed-toe pumps and strappy sandals to metallic heels—paired with standout gowns (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Though the Critics’ Choice Awards often serve as an early indicator of how the season’s frontrunners are emerging, they are also a preview of what we can expect on the red carpet this awards season.

Watching the arrivals, I noticed a clear focus on clean lines and structured, modern silhouettes. There were still some black-and-white looks, but many added interest with sharp tailoring, metallic fabrics, and unexpected pops of color.

The shoes carried the same energy. There were classic black pumps, but there were also clear heels, metallic finishes, and more modern sculptural silhouettes. I loved how the red carpet looked fresh, balanced, and carefully styled.

Now, let’s take a closer look at who truly stood out on the Critics’ Choice Awards red carpet this year.

Erin Doherty’s Sculptural Louis Vuitton Moment, Finished With Classic White Pumps

Erin Doherty didn’t just win Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made for Television for Adolescence; she delivered one of the most memorable fashion moments of the night. She arrived in a green Louis Vuitton gown that immediately divided opinions, and honestly, that’s exactly why it worked for me.

I know this dress isn’t for everyone. Some compared the silhouette to a Sims plumbob, the iconic green diamond hovering above a character’s head, and yes, I see it. It also reminded me a bit of Ariana Grande’s deflated gym ball Louis Vuitton gown at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival. But I think that slightly odd, playful comparison is what makes the dress so fun. The look was bold and witty, and I liked how the execution was entirely avant-garde, yet polished and refined.

It featured a folded strapless neckline that framed Erin’s shoulders beautifully, paired with a fitted, darted bodice that contrasted sharply with the puffball skirt. The skirt’s diamond-like shape and structural pleating gave it volume, as if it were floating around her. But beyond the striking silhouette, the green satin really drew my eye. Its sheen added a sleek, high-fashion finish that stood out against her skin.

Erin Doherty, Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made for Television winner, stuns in a green diamond-shaped Louis Vuitton gown (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

I commend Erin for keeping everything else simple. Her jewelry stayed minimal to let her gown take center stage. She wore the Louis Vuitton High Jewelry “Pure V” earrings in 18k white gold, set with diamonds in an architectural design that mirrored the gown’s geometry. She also wore tiny diamond studs along her helix and a single ring, enough to add sparkle to her already striking gown.

I would’ve preferred a more playful hairstyle, but the sleek, swept-back bun still worked and kept the focus on the dress. Her makeup was just as understated, with soft bronze eyes, a touch of blush, and a neutral brown lip using Make Up For Ever Limitless Brown and Clinique’s Almost Lipstick in Black Honey.

Even her shoes stayed classic. White pointed-toe pumps with stiletto heels completed Erin’s look, and I loved that contrast. Against the bold, sculptural lines of her dress, their simplicity created the perfect balance, showing that sometimes the smartest styling choice is knowing when not to compete.

Erin Doherty offsets her sculptural green Louis Vuitton gown with crisp white satin pumps, letting their sharp silhouette balance the dress’s bold architecture (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Amanda Seyfried’s Romantic Valentino Gown Paired With Aquazzura Platform Sandals

Amanda Seyfried may not have taken home the Best Actress trophy for her role in The Testament of Ann Lee, but to me, she won in the style department. She looked like the definition of modern romance in her black-and-pink Valentino gown—sweet, polished, and quietly dramatic!

The gown came from Valentino’s Vertigineux Spring/Summer 2025 collection, and I instantly fell for its poetic contrast. The strapless black velvet bodice hugged her frame beautifully, with a soft sweetheart neckline that felt classic and feminine. I loved the scalloped cutout at the bodice’s peplum hem, finished with an oversized pink bow at the center.

It was romantic and playful without being childish. Below that was a pale pink skirt that fell straight to the floor, softening the look and giving it a light, graceful finish.

Amanda Seyfried embraces modern romance in a colorblock black-and-pale pink Valentino gown with a pink bow peplum waist accent (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

The look’s sweetness never felt costumey. Stylist Elizabeth Stewart kept everything perfectly balanced, finishing the look with archival Tiffany & Co. jewelry. Amanda wore a platinum and diamond necklace from the 1950s and a matching vintage wristwatch, both adding a soft, subtle sparkle.

She wore her hair in a high ponytail with softly waved ends, keeping the focus on her neckline and diamond drop earrings. Her makeup was dramatic, featuring smoky eyes, cat eyeliner, and a soft pink lip.

Her shoes were hidden underneath the sweeping hem of her gown, but she was reportedly wearing the Aquazzura “Nina” sandals. They were handmade in Italy from black woven fabric threaded with metallic fibers, giving them a soft, elegant shine. It was a bit unfortunate that the length of the dress didn’t allow her to show them off on the red carpet fully.

The sandals featured thick, crisscrossed straps that framed Amanda’s foot beautifully, finished with a small knot detail at the center. They were secured with buckled ankle straps and were set on 1.5-inch platforms and chunky 4-inch heels, adding height while still feeling stable and refined. You can get these sandals for $995 at Net-a-Porter.

Amanda Seyfried styles her hair in a sleek high ponytail and accessorizes with Tiffany & Co. platinum and diamond necklace and matching wristwatch from the 1950s, drop earrings, and rings (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Ariana Grande Channels Modern Fairytale Glamour in Alberta Ferretti

Even without Cynthia Erivo next to her, Ariana Grande went all in on a Glinda-inspired look, wearing a soft pink Alberta Ferretti gown. The dress was light, romantic, and very on-brand for her. Although she lost Best Supporting Actress for Wicked: For Good to Amy Madigan of Weapons, her red carpet look still stood out.

Ariana Grande looked as though she had stepped out of a modern fairy tale in her custom gown, which was an homage to Diahann Carroll’s iconic 1969 Academy Awards look. It began with a simple base made of soft, pale pink satin, designed with a fitted bodice and an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline. It then fell into a floor-length skirt, creating a romantic, ethereal silhouette.

But what truly set the look apart was the sheer tulle cape overlay. It draped from her shoulders and trailed gently behind her, embroidered with tiny silver floral appliqués and Swarovski crystals. The mix of smooth satin and light, shimmering tulle gave the gown a dreamy feel, balancing glamour with a soft, playful touch.

Ariana Grande channels her inner Glinda in a soft pink Alberta Ferretti gown with a white tulle cape overlay embroidered with tiny white flowers, silver floral appliques, and Swarovski crystals (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Ariana wore her hair in a loose updo with wispy bangs framing her face, which kept the look youthful and romantic. Her makeup stayed soft, with her signature rosy blush, pink lips, and pale pink eye makeup.

I also liked how minimal the accessories were. She skipped a necklace, letting a single pair of Swarovski pear-shaped earrings stand out. We didn’t get a look at her shoes, but given her gown’s soft color palette, it wouldn’t be surprising if she chose blush or pastel pink heels. True to her past red-carpet choices, they were likely platform block heels—comfortable, practical, and giving her 5’1/2” frame a bit of extra height.

Ariana Grande styles her hair up in a loose bun with a fringe, showing off her diamond drop earrings (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Leighton Meester’s Lilac Carolina Herrera Gown and Gold Jimmy Choo Heels

Leighton Meester couldn’t be missed in her lilac look as she stepped onto the Critics’ Choice Awards black carpet in support of Nobody Wants This, the series she stars in. The show earned five nominations, including Best Comedy Series, Best Actor in a Comedy for Adam Brody, and Best Actress in a Comedy for Kristen Bell. Though it didn’t win any awards, Meester’s eye-catching appearance left a lasting impression.

Her Carolina Herrera Spring 2026 outfit looked amazing against the dark background. Although its strapless silhouette was straightforward, the lilac color and sparkling accents elevated it. It was decorated with purple crystal flowers arranged in a neat grid, giving the slightly sheer fabric texture.

Leighton Meester wows in a lilac Carolina Herrera sheer gown, embellished with purple crystal flowers arranged in a neat grid (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Leighton’s hair flowed around her shoulders in loose waves, while her makeup was fresh, with light lavender eyeshadow, mascara, a touch of blush, and a bold red lip that added a sharp contrast to the soft tones of the dress.

Meester kept her jewelry minimal, which I thought was the right call. Instead of a necklace, she wore statement orchid earrings from Chopard’s Red Carpet Collection 2019, set with pink sapphires and diamonds that matched the dress’s floral details. A few rings, including the Chopard L’heure Du Diamant and a flower-shaped ring, added just the right amount of sparkle.

Under the dress, she wore the Jimmy Choo “Minny” sandals in metallic gold. Their thin straps and stiletto heels were simple yet elegant, and I loved how the gold complemented the gown’s lilac tones, giving the look a clean, polished finish.

Leighton Meester, with husband Adam Brody, shines with her Chopard Red Carpet Collection 2019 jewelry (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Kathy Bates Embraces Tailored Elegance in a Black Velvet Suit and Manolo Blahnik Pumps

Kathy Bates, nominated for Best Actress in a Drama Series for Matlock, wore a simple, well-tailored look that felt appropriate and sophisticated. Her 100-pound weight loss was noticeable, but more than that, she looked comfortable and confident in her ensemble.

Bates was dressed in a classic black velvet suit. Her single-breasted coat with notched lapels gave the look a clean, tailored vibe, while the soft gray blouse underneath added contrast and kept the all-black ensemble from appearing too heavy. She finished the outfit with matching black velvet pants for a sleek, streamlined look.

Kathy Bates shows off her 100-pound weight loss in a tailored black velvet suit (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Kathy’s hair was neatly swept back with a side part, which naturally drew attention to her statement earrings. I liked how she kept her makeup understated, using a soft pink lipstick to bring a pop of color and brightness to her all-black look.

She completed the outfit with the black Manolo Blahnik “Hangisi” pumps, a longtime red-carpet staple. The satin finish, pointed toe, and crystal buckle were instantly recognizable, and they fit naturally with the rest of the look, keeping everything polished and elegant.

Kathy Bates finishes her suit with the iconic Manolo Blahnik “Hangisi” crystal buckle pumps in black satin (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Chloé Zhao’s Bridal-Inspired Rodarte Dress With Soft White Glove Pumps

Chloé Zhao, who was nominated alongside Maggie O’Farrell for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Director for Hamnet, brought bridal energy to the Critics’ Choice Awards ceremony. She showed up wearing a white organza lace dress from Rodarte’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection, which had an airy, romantic design and delicate details.

Chloé’s dress had a simple white A-line base, but what gave it that bridal feel was the sheer organza overlay embroidered with delicate floral details. The capelet-style top stood out to me, adding a playful yet romantic touch.

Made from the same organza fabric, it was tied at the neck and featured ruffled trims and short puffed sleeves. The skirt fell to her ankles and had a soft A-line volume, giving the dress a youthful, airy feel.

Filmmaker Chloé Zhao, with film producer Nicolas Gonda, looks ready to walk down the aisle in a white sheer lace Rodarte dress with a ruffled capelet (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Zhao kept her accessories minimal, wearing just a bracelet and a ring from Bulgari that matched her gown’s soft, feminine vibe.

When it came to her glam, she decided to keep things natural. To enhance the dress’s relaxed, bridal vibe, she let her hair fall in soft, loose waves and kept her makeup simple, opting for nude lips and defined eyeliner.

On her feet, she wore off-white glove pumps with piping around the topline and a comfortable mid-height heel. The shoes felt effortlessly modern and practical, while still complementing the dress perfectly.

Chloé Zhao finished her bridal-inspired ensemble with sleek off-white glove pumps, a minimalist choice that underscored the look’s soft romance and modern restraint (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Sarah Shahi’s Embellished Georges Hobeika Look and Sculptural Simon Miller Heels

Sarah Shahi, whose post-apocalyptic political thriller Paradise was nominated for Best Drama Series, stepped out in a black Georges Hobeika two-piece that looked dramatic yet refined.

While the silhouette was simple, with just a long-sleeved cropped top and a column skirt, I couldn’t take my eyes off the intricate details. The sheer cropped top was fully covered in shimmering silver, mirror-like embellishments, and I loved how they were carefully arranged in a flower-like pattern, adding texture and dimension. The top was cut just below her bust, showing a hint of skin while striking a perfect balance between elegant and daring.

Sarah paired it with a sleek column skirt with satin side stripes and a sheer overlay adorned with beads and crystals. I loved how these shimmering details created a scalloped, mermaid-scale pattern, adding beautiful texture and depth. I honestly thought that without these touches, the look might have looked simple.

Sarah Shahi glimmers in a two-piece black Georges Hobeika outfit, featuring a see-through, cropped top with crystals arranged in flowers and a column skirt with crystals in a scalloped, mermaid-scale pattern (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

I loved how Shahi didn’t overdo the accessories. She wore only a couple of rings and long, delicate earrings that added just the right amount of shine. Her beauty look was effortless, wearing just nude lipstick, a hint of blush, and defined lashes, while her tousled waves fell naturally over her shoulders, giving the look a touch of bohemian charm.

My favorite part was her shoes. Those Simon Miller heels were sleek and eye-catching in metallic silver leather, perfectly echoing the embellishments in her outfit. They featured a wide vamp, peep-toe front, and slim ankle strap that kept the design clean and modern, but the real standout was the hourglass-shaped heel, which added a sculptural, elevated touch.

Sarah Shahi completes her look with mirror metallic silver Simon Miller platform sandals, matching the embellishments on her outfit (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Sophia Lillis Balances Romance and Edge in Giambattista Valli and Stuart Weitzman Heels

Sophia Lillis, who was up for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made for Television for her role as Carrie Finch in All Her Fault, wore a Giambattista Valli Spring 2026 dress that nicely balanced modesty with a touch of boldness. At first glance, the look felt reserved, with its high neckline, long sleeves, and flowing mid-length skirt. But the more I looked, the more I noticed its unique intricacies.

The dress was made of slightly sheer fabric, covered with tiny floral prints that added texture and depth. Its muted rose and mauve tones enhanced its romantic, feminine appeal, but what I found more interesting was the fully shirred bodice that hugged her frame beautifully, creating structure and silhouette while still feeling delicate and light. Below the waist, the skirt turned completely sheer, showing a glimpse of her legs and Commando undergarments. I loved how it created a striking contrast with the otherwise modest cut!

Sophia Lillis balances modesty with boldness in a rose-colored Giambattista Valli dress with a high neck, shirred long-sleeved bodice, and a see-through skirt (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Sophia wore her hair in softly side-parted waves that framed her face naturally, paired with rosy, fresh makeup that complemented the dress. Her jewelry was minimal, with just understated earrings and rings by Shahla Karimi.

Lillis finished the look with brown Stuart Weitzman heels, likely the iconic “Nudist” style, known for its minimalist straps and elegant stiletto.

While pink or ivory might have been the expected choice, the earthy brown heels grounded the look beautifully. Their restrained simplicity offset the dress’s intricate florals and sheer fabrication, creating a finish that felt thoughtful, modern, and impeccably balanced.

Sohia Lillis completes her look with earthy brown Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” sandals (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Aliyah Mastin’s Maria Lucia Hohan Bridal Gown and Minimalist Clear-Strap Heels

Representing Paradise alongside Sarah Shahi, Aliyah Mastin wore the “Cathalea” gown by Maria Lucia Hohan, and it felt like one of those looks that becomes more impressive the longer you look at it.

The strapless bodice was clean and fitted, shaped by a corseted structure beneath sheer ruched fabric. I loved that the strapless top stayed simple, allowing the skirt to shine. And shine it did. The skirt looked dramatic, layered with shirred ruffles that skimmed the floor and trailed behind her as she moved.

Aliyah Mastin looks stunning in a white Maria Lucia Hohan bridal gown featuring a see-through, ruched corseted bodice and a voluminous skirt with shirred ruffles (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Aliyah didn’t overdo the jewelry, wearing just a delicate bracelet and a ring on her ivory-manicured hands. Her hair fell in loose, bouncy curls around her face, while her makeup stayed classic with smoky eyeshadow and a dark nude lipstick.

Thankfully, she lifted her voluminous skirt as she walked the black carpet, giving us a glimpse of her heels. She chose white sandals with clear PVC toe straps, which felt like the perfect choice. They were simple and modern, and they worked perfectly with a gown that already had so much detail.

Aliyah Mastin pairs her already stunning white gown with minimalist silver heels with a clear PVC front strap (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

May Hong’s Vintage-Inspired Gauntlett Cheng Dress With Manolo Blahnik Brocade Pumps

Known as the speaking voice of Mira in KPop Demon Hunters, May Hong arrived wearing a silver dress by Gauntlett Cheng, a New York-based label known for its unique art-infused designs.

At first glance, the dress looked a bit dated to me, and I think it was because of the color and structure. The silver-gray palette was more muted than modern, and the ribbed knit construction, paired with the high neckline and button details, gave it a very vintage feel. Still, it was consistent with Gauntlett Cheng’s aesthetic, which often blends modern and contemporary elements. The high neckline was broken up by a large keyhole cutout at the chest, trimmed with tiny buttons along one side. Down the center front, another row of buttons ran to the hips before opening into a slit.

Underneath, there was a fitted, tube-style gray layer, fully embroidered with texture and finished with sheer details at the neckline and hem.

May Hong opts for a vintage-style look, wearing a light gray Gauntlett Cheng dress with metallic threads, a keyhole cutout, buttons, and a textured mini dress underneath (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Hong’s accessories stayed minimal with long drop earrings, a dainty diamond bracelet, and a few rings. She wore her dark pixie hair straight with soft bangs, and her makeup stayed in soft nude tones.

What really pulled it together for me were her Manolo Blahnik pumps. The metallic silver brocade echoed the dress beautifully, and I liked how the pointed toes gave the look a sharper edge. They also featured crisscross straps across the foot with matching ankle straps for added definition, while the slim, curved heels kept everything looking elegant.

May Hong teams her gray and silver dress with Manolo Blahnik metallic silver brocade pumps with crisscross front straps and ankle straps (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Ji-Young Yoo’s Barbiecore Prabal Gurung Gown and Crystal Jimmy Choo Sandals

As the speaking voice of Zoey in KPop Demon Hunters, Ji-Young Yoo joined her fellow cast members to accept the film’s Best Animated Feature trophy, and she looked every bit like someone having her moment. Dressed in a hot pink gown by Prabal Gurung, she stood out immediately, even among a sea of elegant eveningwear.

The gown itself was pretty simple in structure, but the color did all the work. It came in vivid pink, which felt bold and unapologetic. The bodice featured a sharp, pointy sweetheart neckline that gave the dress a modern edge, and it fit closely through the torso and hips, then flared into a floor-length A-line skirt with a thigh-high slit. From the back, the dress revealed a low cut and an oversized bow detail, which wrapped around her arms like a sculptural stole.

Ji-Young Yoo embraces Barbiecore in a hot pink Prabal Gurung gown with a pointy sweetheart neckline and an oversized back bow styled like a stole, draped over her arms (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Ji-Young Yoo’s jewelry, from Shay Jewelry, was sleek and refined. A tennis necklace rested along her collarbone, paired with statement earrings and a single ring that added just enough sparkle. Her hair was modern and sharp, styled in a side-parted bun with a sleek strand left loose along one side of her face. Her makeup pulled the look together with soft pink tones, cat-eye liner, and defined lashes.

Ji-Young finished the look with silver Jimmy Choo “Bing” sandals, which complemented her accessories perfectly. They featured square toes, high heels, and three slim straps, two of which were embellished with sparkling crystals that picked up on her other jewelry, allowing her to shine from head to toe.

These Jimmy Choos are currently on sale at Mytheresa for $1,186, marked down from their original price of $1,695.

Ji-Young Yoo adds sparkles to her pink look with the silver Jimmy Choo “Bing” sandals featuring crystal-embellished straps and a square toe (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Jackie Tohn’s Sculptural Yellow Khoon Hooi Gown and Metallic Platform Heels

Jackie Tohn was hard to ignore the moment she stepped onto the carpet. Wearing a vivid yellow gown by Khoon Hooi, she stood out instantly, not because of embellishment or sparkle, but because of shape and color.

The mustard yellow caught my eye right away, and the sharp silhouette gave it a modern feel. The dress had a corseted bodice with an off-the-shoulder neckline that dipped gently across her collarbone. I liked how the slightly ruched straps added texture without distracting from the dress’s clean lines. Below the waist, the design became more architectural. It had darting around the hips, creating volume and shape, as if sculpting the fabric outward before tapering into a long, floor-length skirt.

Jackie Tohn wows in a mustard yellow Khoon Hooi off-the-shoulder gown with a sculptural hip (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Jackie skipped a necklace, which I thought was the right call, letting the neckline stand out. Instead, she wore Carina Hardy jewelry inspired by Klimt’s The Woman in Gold painting. Her gold earrings, bracelet, and rings featured intricate, art-like detailing that added interest to the overall look. Her brunette hair was worn down in soft waves, and her makeup focused on smoky eyes that made her blue eyes pop, finished with peachy blush and lipstick.

Tohn completed her ensemble with metallic open-toe platform heels, which complemented her gown. The shine complemented the bold yellow of her dress, and the heels balanced the gown’s structured shape perfectly.

Jackie Tohn pairs her yellow dress with metallic pale gold sandals with square open toes and high heels (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

From the Critics’ Choice Carpet to the Shoe Trends Defining 2026

While the Critics’ Choice Awards offered an early look at how awards-season style is evolving, the footwear we saw on the black carpet also connects to broader trends shaping 2026.

From sculptural heels and metallic finishes to streamlined pumps and modern platforms, these red-carpet moments echo the silhouettes, materials, and styling choices we’ll continue to see well beyond this season.

For a deeper look at how these trends translate off the carpet—and how past Critics’ Choice style moments continue to influence today—explore the curated reads below.