Looking for a fun, fresh take on a summer updo? Karrueche Tran once delivered the perfect braided bun look that still turns heads today.
At the 7th Indie Series Awards held at Hollywood’s El Portal Theater in 2016, the then 27-year-old actress and model stepped out in a dreamy blush lace dress and an updo that blended edge and elegance. While recreating this look might require a skilled stylist (or serious arm strength), it remains a great source of inspiration for summer events and red carpet glam.
Karrueche Tran debuts a braided bun updo on the red carpet at the 7th Indie Series Awards in Hollywood
Wearing a $99 blush lace dress from Zara, Karrueche pairs her look with minimal accessories and a sleek clutch at the Indie Series Awards at the El Portal Theater, Hollywood, on April 6, 2016 (Credit: Nicky Nelson / WENN)
Karrueche wore a $99 blush lace dress from Zara. The actress paired her look with a rectangular clutch, diamond earrings, a slim gold bangle, and the pom-pom suede sandals by Alaïa (as previously worn by Khloé Kardashian and Eva Longoria).
A detailed look at Karrueche’s Alaïa pom-pom sandals, featuring suede straps and playful detailing
👠 Celebrities Who Love Alaïa Sandals:
- 📌 Sofia Vergara and Lilly Becker wear Alaïa Bombe sandals in beige suede at separate appearances—Sofia styled hers for Jimmy Kimmel, while Lilly rocked the look in London.
- 📌 Naomi Campbell in Alaïa cutout sandals at a Fashion for Relief event in London, paired with an all-black streetwear ensemble.
- 📌 Jennifer Garner styles Alaïa circle laser-cut sandals for a chic church outing with daughter Violet, proving these heels work beyond the red carpet.
- 📌 Eva Longoria in white and gray snakeskin Alaïa studded sandals at the “Devious Maids” premiere, balancing glam with edge.
- 📌 Blac Chyna wears metallic studded Alaïa sandals post-pregnancy at a Las Vegas club appearance, showcasing the brand’s bold, feminine flair.
🛍️ Want to shop the look? Discover Alaïa’s latest collection of designer sandals, slingbacks, and mules at Farfetch. Sleek and sculptural, each pair blends the Maison’s rich heritage with Pieter Mulier’s modern, architectural vision.
Karrueche shares the spotlight with fellow actors Lilly Melgar and Kristos Andrews during the red carpet festivities
Ready to see her updo? A word of caution: if you’re practicing this hairstyle on yourself, expect a good arm workout. If you can’t figure out the hairstyle, you can at least get Karrueche’s Alaïa pom-pom sandals in black:
Alaïa Studded Suede Sandals, $1,430
👠 Must-Read Karrueche Tran Style & Hair Features:
- 📌 Karrueche Tran in Alzúarr rhinestone sandals — Stiletto glam from a French luxury brand, spotlighting her radiant red carpet moment.
- 📌 Karrueche Tran’s chic Princess Leia-inspired buns on the “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” premiere red carpet — perfect updo inspo.
- 📌 Karrueche Tran debuts a polished pixie cut at the 2023 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards — a bold, modern hair transformation.
- 📌 Karrueche Tran’s Saint Laurent “Paloma” snake-stripe sandals styled with a leather mini at Universal Studios — a street-style standout.
- 📌 Karrueche Tran in bold pink Balenciaga wedge mules, bringing a relaxed-cool vibe to a casual LA pop-up appearance.
- 📌 Karrueche Tran pairing Christian Louboutin “Miziggoo” sandals with a fierce black leather dress at the BET Awards.