In January 2016, Jessica Simpson returned to New York City for the YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund and Geoffrey Beene National Scholarship Awards Gala—an especially fitting moment for the singer-turned-fashion mogul.
Nearly two decades after releasing her debut album, Sweet Kisses, Jessica had evolved into a full-fledged style entrepreneur, best known for the wildly successful Jessica Simpson Collection and the sky-high heels that became her personal signature.
At the gala, she embraced that aesthetic once again, stepping out in a sleek black Monique Lhuillier gown and strappy nude Giuseppe Zanotti sandals that perfectly reflected her glamorous, ultra-feminine shoe philosophy.
Jessica Simpson wears her blonde hair down at the YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund Geoffrey Beene National Scholarship Awards Gala at the Marriott Marquis Hotel on January 12, 2016, in New York City (Credit: Ivan Nikolov / WENN)
Jessica Simpson Steps Out With Eric Johnson at the YMA Scholarship Gala
The then 35-year-old footwear designer was joined by her husband, Eric Johnson, who looked dapper in a black suit, a crisp white shirt, and leather shoes.
Jessica Simpson poses with her husband, Eric Johnson, on the gala carpet in a plum lace Monique Lhuillier dress and nude Giuseppe Zanotti heels
Long before she became a bestselling footwear designer, Jessica Simpson first broke into the spotlight with her 1999 debut album, Sweet Kisses.
A young Jessica Simpson smiles while signing promotional posters during her early Sweet Kisses era
The project introduced her as a fresh-faced pop star, but it also marked the beginning of the high-glam, ultra-feminine aesthetic she would later translate into her own fashion empire.
By the time she released her sophomore album Irresistible in 2001, Jessica was already embracing the bold heels and polished silhouettes that would eventually become signatures of her red-carpet style.
Jessica Simpson celebrates her 20th birthday with a themed cake while greeting fans and cameras
The then mom-of-two showed off her incredibly slim figure in a Monique Lhuillier creation. Her third child, Birdie Mae Johnson, was born on March 19, 2019.
Jessica Simpson shows off her lace Monique Lhuillier gown in a full-length pose at the YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund Gala
A Romantic Lace Gown and Nude Zanotti Heels Define Her Gala Look
She donned an ankle-length lace dress with sheer cutouts and cap sleeves, accentuating her toned arms.
To glam up her look, Jessica accessorized with a selection of gold jewelry by Jacquie Aiche and showed off her pretty toes in Giuseppe Zanotti heels.
Jessica Simpson highlights the intricate floral lace detailing of her Monique Lhuillier gown in side and close-up red-carpet shots
More Giuseppe Zanotti Moments You’ll Love
Jessica’s minimalist nude sandals are just one example of how celebrities turn to Giuseppe Zanotti for height, polish, and a little red-carpet magic.
If you’re a fan of the Italian designer’s sculptural stilettos and bold statement heels, here are more star-studded moments worth exploring.
👠 Explore Giuseppe Zanotti Celebrity Moments on Your Next Shoes:
- 📚 Our definitive guide to Giuseppe Zanotti—covering his design philosophy, most iconic heels, and the Italian craftsmanship behind his luxury brand.
- 🎬 Angelina Jolie’s dramatic Rome Film Festival moment in Alberta Ferretti paired with bold Giuseppe Zanotti “Cluedo” boots.
- ✨ Anna Kendrick and Halston Sage in dual Zanotti looks that showcase the versatility of his sculptural ankle boots.
- 🔥 Kylie Jenner’s 2010s glam-rock era defined by Balmain and her statement-making Giuseppe Zanotti “Uma” boots.
- 💥 Rita Ora’s explosive collaboration with Giuseppe Zanotti—a capsule collection filled with metallics, crystals, and high-impact silhouettes.
- 💃 Nicole Scherzinger’s golden birthday look featuring shimmering Haute Hippie and sky-high Zanotti heels.
Jessica Simpson poses for photos at the YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund and Geoffrey Beene National Scholarship Awards Gala
The American singer wore her voluminous blonde tresses over her shoulders and completed her look with soft makeup, including peach blush and lipstick.
Jessica Simpson’s nude Giuseppe Zanotti sandals feature thin patent straps that complement the scalloped hem of her lace dress
Jessica’s Giuseppe Zanotti sandals are made of glossy patent leather and feature a modern minimalist silhouette with three straps, back zip fastenings, and about five-inch heels.
A side-angle view shows the slender stiletto heel and minimalist strap design of Jessica Simpson’s nude Giuseppe Zanotti sandals
These Giuseppe Zanotti sandals are available in various styles at Farfetch.
This nude Giuseppe Zanotti stiletto sandal features a sleek triple-strap design, a slim ankle cuff, and a high-gloss finish that embodies the brand’s signature minimalist glamour
Jessica Simpson’s Fashion Legacy: Must-See Moments
Before we wrap, here’s a closer look at some of Jessica Simpson’s most memorable fashion and shoe moments—ranging from sky-high platforms to sleek red-carpet classics.
👠 Explore Jessica Simpson’s Best Shoe & Fashion Moments:
- 📏 Standing at 5’2½” (159 cm) and wearing a US shoe size 7, Jessica Simpson often leans on sky-high heels to elongate her petite, curvy frame.
- 👗 Jessica Simpson’s shimmering orange mini-dress look styled with towering 5.5-inch metallic platform sandals from her own fashion label.
- ✨ Her chic leopard-print pump moment pairing sophisticated d’Orsay heels with a pleated skirt and soft glam.
- 👜 Why Jessica Simpson rarely wears her own brand’s shoes, despite running one of America’s most successful celebrity footwear labels.
- ✈️ Her casual airport outfit featuring Fendi studded sandals, a cozy hoodie, and relaxed sweats.
- 🏆 Jessica Simpson’s 2023 FNAA Icon Award appearance in a sheer crystal gown and striking platform heels.