Kiernan Shipka Channels Retro Glam in Stella McCartney — and Fans Can’t Stop Noticing Her Emma Watson Resemblance

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Kiernan Shipka has long been one of young Hollywood’s most consistent style standouts, and even in her early career, she was proving she could hold her own among fashion’s elite.

One of her most memorable appearances came at Stella McCartney’s Autumn 2016 Presentation in Los Angeles, where she arrived in a retro-glam look that still feels fresh today.

Kiernan Shipka wears her hair in a retro 'do at the Stella McCartney Autumn 2016 Collection PresentationKiernan Shipka wears her hair in a retro ‘do at the Stella McCartney Autumn 2016 Presentation at Amoeba Music on January 12, 2016, in Los Angeles, California

Years later, in January 2020, Shipka reminded the internet of her sense of humor when a fan mistook her for Emma Watson on Instagram.

After sharing a casual dog-selfie update, a commenter wrote, “So pretty Emma Watson,” prompting Shipka—who is close friends with Timothée Chalamet—to deliver a cheeky, now-iconic reply: “Thank you. I had an amazing time filming Harry Potter & am really thrilled about all the new projects I’m doing now.”

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Although English actress Emma Watson stands 5 feet 4¾ inches tall (164.5 cm) and Kiernan Shipka is much shorter at 5 feet 2 inches (157.5 cm), fans often note their striking resemblance.

The two aren’t related, but their similar features and classic beauty often prompt comparisons.

Emma Watson and Kiernan Shipka share refined features and styling sensibilities that often spark comparisons among fansEmma Watson and Kiernan Shipka share refined features and styling sensibilities that often spark comparisons among fans (Credit: FayesVision / Adriana M. Barraza / WENN / Instar)

Rubbing elbows with A-list celebrities at Stella McCartney’s autumn 2016 collection presentation, the “Mad Men” star proved she’s so much more than just a young actress — she’s also a style icon!

Kiernan Shipka steps out in a bold one-shoulder plaid Stella McCartney mini dress paired with gleaming silver block-heel loafersKiernan Shipka steps out in a bold one-shoulder plaid Stella McCartney mini dress paired with gleaming silver block-heel loafers

Kiernan turned heads as she channeled the iconic “Grease” character, Sandy Olsson, with her new retro curls. She paired her ‘do with a one-shoulder plaid dress from Stella McCartney’s spring 2016 collection.

Shipka shows off the asymmetric draping and open-back detail of her mixed-plaid Stella McCartney dress, styled with Old Hollywood curlsShipka shows off the asymmetric draping and open-back detail of her mixed-plaid Stella McCartney dress, styled with Old Hollywood curls

The then-16-year-old actress kept it classy in the dress, which was appropriate for her age. Kiernan still kept the look playful, however, with a white clutch and a pair of metallic heeled loafers.

The young actress poses confidently in her vibrant patchwork mini dress and mirrored loafers, highlighting the playful energy of her lookThe young actress poses confidently in her vibrant patchwork mini dress and mirrored loafers, highlighting the playful energy of her look

She’s known to pull off different hairstyles, but this deeply side-parted ‘80s perm might just be her most remarkable yet. The Let It Snow star completed her look with a slick of red lipstick, dark brows, and blush.

Her metallic Stella McCartney “Hackney” loafers shine with tassels, contrast stitching, and a sculptural wooden heelHer metallic Stella McCartney “Hackney” loafers shine with tassels, contrast stitching, and a sculptural wooden heel

Kiernan’s silver “Hackney” loafers are also by Stella McCartney. These funky loafers are made of mirrored eco faux leather material and feature pink-edged tongues, tassels, and 4.1-inch wooden block heels.

A profile view reveals the chunky silhouette and polished mirror finish of Shipka’s eco-friendly Stella McCartney heelsA profile view reveals the chunky silhouette and polished mirror finish of Shipka’s eco-friendly Stella McCartney heels

Kiernan Shipka vs. Emma Watson: Two Style Icons with Distinct Red-Carpet Footwear Signatures

Kiernan Shipka and Emma Watson, two of Hollywood’s most sophisticated style stars, share a love for high-fashion elegance but approach the red carpet with distinctly different footwear philosophies.

We dove into the archives to curate essential articles that define their styles—from Shipka’s playful, height-boosting platforms to Watson’s sleek, ethically-minded minimalism.

✨ Kiernan Shipka: Youthful Glamour and Strategic Platforms (US Size 6)

Petite at 5’2″ (157.5 cm) with a US size 6 foot, Kiernan often turns to playful platforms and statement heels to add height without losing her youthful edge.

🌿 Emma Watson: Sustainable Chic and Minimalist Precision (US Size 7)

Standing 5’4¾” (164.5 cm) with a US size 7 foot, Emma favors sleek, low-profile heels and ethically minded brands that align with her sustainable fashion advocacy.