Angelic in Valentino: Keira Knightley Shines in Tulle Gown and Nicholas Kirkwood Heels

At the 2017 London Evening Standard Theatre Awards at the Theatre Royal, Keira Knightley established a masterclass in “ethereal-chic” that remains a definitive reference for romantic red-carpet styling.

While the event featured a gallery of high-fashion looks—including notable appearances by Cate Blanchett and Billie Piper—Knightley’s ensemble stood out for its seamless blend of delicate textures and architectural footwear.

With her Valentino gown’s delicate tulle and satin-green shoulder bows, Keira Knightley embodied ethereal sophistication at the 2017 London Evening Standard Theatre Awards

Her look serves as a lasting example of how to balance the volume of a floor-length gown with the right structural heel, a signature move in Knightley’s long-term collaboration with both Valentino and footwear designer Nicholas Kirkwood.

Keira Knightley Elevates a Valentino Tulle Gown With Nicholas Kirkwood’s Artistic Heels

The English actress wore a cream tulle gown from Valentino’s Spring 2018 collection, defined by a ruched neckline and oversized satin-green shoulder bows.

To anchor the lightness of the tulle, she turned to Nicholas Kirkwood for heels that provided a modern, artistic contrast to the dress’s classic femininity. This partnership highlights a key styling rule: using structured footwear to ground a whimsical, “floating” silhouette.

This wasn’t the first time she chose Kirkwood’s designs; she had previously worn his ‘Carnaby’ pumps with a stunning Rochas dress at the 2016 Harper’s Bazaar Women of the Year Awards in London.

Keira Knightley floated down the red carpet in a cream tulle Valentino gown with satin-green shoulder bows, the floor-length design skimming over barely visible heels

Known for his innovative designs and elegant touches, Kirkwood’s footwear adds a modern, artistic edge to Keira’s classic style, making his heels a recurring choice in her wardrobe.

Keira Knightley’s Go-To Elegant Heels and Her Enduring Love for Valentino’s Ethereal Designs

Due to the length of her stunning Valentino gown, Keira Knightley’s shoes were barely visible at the 2017 London Evening Standard Theatre Awards. However, for those curious about her footwear choices, Keira often favors heels that add elegance to her outfits.

Keira Knightley has long loved Valentino, often choosing their ethereal designs for red carpet appearances. Known for their delicate tulle and intricate detailing, Valentino gowns perfectly complement her whimsical style, as seen in many of her most memorable looks.

Keira Knightley paired her ethereal cream tulle Valentino gown with high heels to elongate her silhouette and ensure the full, floor-grazing skirt floated elegantly above the red carpet at the 2017 London Evening Standard Theatre Awards in London on December 3, 2017 (Credit: WENN / Lia Toby)

Keira Knightley’s Red-Carpet Evolution: Her Chicest Shoes and Dreamiest Dresses

As expected from an actress whose style blends old-Hollywood romance with modern edge, Keira’s red-carpet history is filled with equally memorable shoe moments.

Beyond this ethereal Valentino appearance, she has delivered an array of iconic looks—pairing delicate sandals, sculptural heels, and statement boots with some of her most celebrated gowns and ensembles. Below, we spotlight her chicest footwear and fashion highlights.