On August 28, 2016, at the MTV Video Music Awards at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Hailey Baldwin delivered a red-carpet look that proved how footwear can ground even the most daring fashion statements.
Wearing a sheer Georges Chakra Fall 2016 Couture jumpsuit, the then-19-year-old model let her outfit command attention—but it was her choice of sleek black patent Giuseppe Zanotti “Darcie” sandals that gave the look structure, balance, and lasting relevance.
The minimalist heels anchored the dramatic silhouette, reinforcing a styling principle that continues to define modern red-carpet dressing: when the clothes are bold, the shoes should be precise.
Hailey Baldwin wears her blonde hair down at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards held on August 28, 2016, at Madison Square Garden in New York City (Credit: WENN / Ivan Nikolov / Dan Jackman / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)
Her rhinestone-accented sleeveless jumpsuit featured an eye-catching leaf print that gave viewers a peek at the trained ballet dancer’s underwear.
Turning over her shoulder, the model showcases the open-back drama of a sheer, jet-black embellished jumpsuit against the VMAs step-and-repeat backdrop
Hailey appeared to be wearing a simple black bra and high-waisted panties underneath the see-through black sequined jumpsuit.
Facing the cameras head-on, the intricate leaf-like beadwork and illusion panels take center stage, balancing sparkle with precise tailoring
She styled the sheer lace number with fabulous retro hoop earrings and a collection of rings. The American model wore her shoulder-length blonde hair down in slight waves and sported dramatic smoky eye makeup.
A full-length view highlights the sleek, body-skimming silhouette of the transparent jumpsuit, finished with slim black heels that elongate the look
Hailey finished the look with black patent Giuseppe Zanotti “Darcie” sandals, a barely-there stiletto prized for its clean straps, high Italian heel, and ability to sharpen even the most daring silhouettes without competing for attention.
In profile, the side cutouts and shimmering texture emphasize movement and structure, giving the daring ensemble a sculptural edge
The “Darcie” sandals are from Giuseppe Zanotti’s Fall/Winter 2016 Collection. Shay Mitchell wore the gold version to the Teen Choice Awards.
Why Hailey Bieber’s Shoe Choices—and the Zanotti “Darcie”—Still Matter
From red-carpet statements to off-duty styling, Hailey Bieber’s footwear choices reveal a consistent approach to modern fashion: let the shoes provide structure, balance, and longevity.
Whether anchoring dramatic silhouettes or elevating minimalist looks, her go-to heels—and the enduring appeal of Giuseppe Zanotti’s “Darcie” sandals—illustrate how well-chosen footwear transcends trends.
To place this moment in a broader style context, here are additional Hailey Bieber and Giuseppe Zanotti shoe highlights from Your Next Shoes.
👠 Hailey Bieber & Giuseppe Zanotti Shoe Moments on YourNextShoes.com:
- ✨ Hailey Bieber Stuns in Saint Laurent Leather & White Slingback Pumps — A 2025 red-carpet look highlighting her polished footwear choices.
- 📏 Hailey Baldwin’s Height & Favorite Designer Heels — A deep dive into her footwear preferences, from Balenciaga to Giuseppe Zanotti.
- 👟 Hailey Bieber’s Luxe Flip-Flops & Workout Style — Mixing high-end flip-flops with athleisure.
- 🩴 Hailey Bieber Balances Playful & Chic Casual Footwear — A street-style shoe moment.
- 👠 Karlie Kloss in Glittery Giuseppe Zanotti “Darcie” Sandals — A classic red-carpet Darcie moment.
- 👡 Yara Shahidi’s MTV VMAs Look With Giuseppe Zanotti “Darcie” Sandals — Another enduring example of the Darcie silhouette.