In a powerful blend of fashion and advocacy, Kerry Washington stepped out in September 2014 to support the launch of the Allstate Foundation’s Purple Purse Program—a nationwide initiative aimed at ending domestic violence through financial empowerment.
At the time, the Scandal star had just been named the program’s official spokesperson and proudly used her platform to spotlight this critical issue.
Kerry Washington pairs a textured green Alexander McQueen strapless dress with purple Casadei “Blade” pumps and a matching oversized clutch she helped design for the Purple Purse campaign
For the event, Kerry wore a strapless green Alexander McQueen dress with textured detailing and debuted a symbolic purple purse she helped design.
Kerry Washington sports soft, shoulder-length curls and a lavender manicure as she sits with arms crossed, exuding quiet confidence at the Purple Purse launch event
The rich purple shade, long associated with domestic violence awareness, represented strength and financial independence for survivors.
While the outfit sparked mixed reactions, her commitment to the cause made a bold and meaningful statement on and off the red carpet.
Kerry Washington hosting the launch event for the 2014 Allstate Foundation Purple Purse Program in New York on September 15, 2014 (Credit: Dan Jackman / WENN)
While striking and symbolic, the oversized purple clutch appeared slightly cumbersome against the structured silhouette of Kerry’s green Alexander McQueen dress, at times seeming difficult to manage.
Still, the statement piece served its purpose beautifully, drawing attention to the Purple Purse initiative and Kerry’s active role in promoting financial empowerment for domestic violence survivors.
A close-up of the oversized purple clutch Kerry Washington co-designed for the Allstate Foundation’s Purple Purse campaign, featuring textured woven panels, a leather strap handle, and a tassel accent to symbolize financial empowerment
Kerry Washington’s Longstanding Love for Casadei Heels
She completed the look with a pair of iconic Casadei “Blade” pumps in rich Grape Suede—a bold, color-blocked choice that echoed the tone of her clutch and added a sophisticated finish to her ensemble.
Kerry Washington has long been a fan of Casadei’s elegant footwear, turning to the Italian brand for multiple standout red carpet moments. At the Project Runway Spring 2014 Fashion Show, she wore striking red patent leather Casadei “Blade One” pumps with a floral Stella McCartney dress, effortlessly blending edgy and feminine.
For the 2015 Emmy Awards, she stepped out in metallic gold Casadei “Tulip” sandals that complemented her shimmering Marc Jacobs gown. At the 2018 Vanity Fair Oscar Party, she made a bold statement in over-the-knee Casadei “Blade” boots—proving her loyalty to the brand’s sculptural, high-impact designs.
A closer look at Kerry Washington’s Casadei “Blade” pumps in Grape Suede, featuring razor-sharp stiletto heels that added height and elongated her petite frame
The sleek, razor-sharp stiletto heels also elongated Kerry’s petite 5ft 4in (162.6 cm) frame, adding height and enhancing the elegance of her overall silhouette. While this style is sold out, you can find more recent Casadei designs at Farfetch.
Casadei “Blade” Pumps in Grape Suede, $636.08
Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Casadei
Founded in 1958, Casadei epitomizes “Made in Italy” craftsmanship, renowned for its premium materials like leather and patent leather. The brand’s meticulous engineering, such as steel reinforcements in the Blade heel, balances aesthetics with durability. Here’s how some celebrities have embraced Casadei’s iconic designs:
Zendaya’s Pink Perfection at the ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ Premiere
- Event: ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ Los Angeles Premiere
- Outfit: Zendaya dazzled in a pink Ralph & Russo Couture gown featuring a plunging neckline and thigh-high slit.
- Footwear: She completed her look with matching hot pink Casadei Blade satin pumps, adding a bold pop of color.
- Read more: Zendaya Slays in Casadei ‘Blade’ Pumps at ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ Premiere
Olivia Palermo’s Chic Ensembles at Milan Fashion Week
- Event: Milan Fashion Week
- Outfit: Olivia Palermo showcased multiple stylish looks, including a Max Mara suit and an Antonio Marras plaid dress.
- Footwear: She paired her outfits with Casadei’s Superblade heels, including the Narcissist over-the-knee boots and Juliet slingback pumps.
- See more: Olivia Palermo’s Casadei Love Affair: The Designer Heels That Defined Milan Fashion Week
Hailee Steinfeld’s Dual Casadei Moments
- Events: Variety Hitmakers Luncheon and American Music Awards 2017
- Outfits: Hailee wore a black Barbara Bui leather dress for the luncheon and a Mugler blazer with David Koma pants for the AMAs.
- Footwear: She completed both looks with different styles of Casadei pumps, showcasing the brand’s versatility.
- More details: Hailee Steinfeld Wears 2 Casadei Pumps at AMAs and Variety Lunch
Jennifer Lopez’s Sleek Look at Verizon’s Viva Movil Launch
- Event: Verizon’s Viva Movil Launch
- Outfit: Jennifer Lopez wore a long-sleeve white dress from Louise Goldin’s Fall 2013 collection.
- Footwear: She paired her outfit with cream leather Casadei Blade pumps, adding a touch of elegance.
- Discover more: Jennifer Lopez and Naomie Harris Show Off Casadei Blade Heels
Hailey Baldwin’s Chic Dinner Look in West Hollywood
- Event: Dinner at Craig’s Restaurant, West Hollywood
- Outfit: Hailey Baldwin stepped out in a stylish ensemble, turning heads with her fashion choice.
- Footwear: She wore white nappa leather Casadei Blade pumps adorned with a pale gold bow detail at the back.
- See her look: Hailey Baldwin Dines in Hollywood Wearing Casadei ‘Blade’ Heels
These moments highlight Casadei’s appeal among celebrities, offering designs that range from bold statements to elegant classics.