Nina Dobrev Ignites SXSW in Elie Saab and Flats, Then Stuns in Versace Heels at “The Final Girls” Premieres

In March 2015, long before she cemented her reputation as a red-carpet risk-taker, Nina Dobrev brought bohemian glamour to the SXSW premiere of The Final Girls at Austin’s Paramount Theatre.

Her appearance blended early-2010s festival flair with high-fashion polish—a defining moment in her evolving style story.

Nina Dobrev’s boho braided hairstyle complemented her bold dress (Credit: WENN / Arnold Wells)

A Fiery Fashion Moment: Nina Dobrev’s Elie Saab Gown Ignites the SXSW Red Carpet

At the 2015 SXSW Music, Film + Interactive Festival, held at Austin’s Paramount Theatre on March 13, Nina Dobrev made a striking entrance for the premiere of The Final Girls.

The Vampire Diaries star chose a coral-to-yellow ombré silk gown from Elie Saab’s Spring 2015 collection, a look that blazed like a fiery sunset under the Texas lights.

Nina Dobrev in an Elie Saab Spring 2015 coral and yellow ombre gown at the premiere of ‘The Final Girls’ during the 2015 SXSW Music, Film + Interactive Festival at The Paramount Theatre in Austin on March 13, 2015 (Credit: WENN / Arnold Wells)

While the gown’s fluid silhouette and high slit made a bold impression, some critics felt the dramatic couture moment was slightly overdressed for SXSW’s laid-back festival vibe. Still, Dobrev’s choice showcased her evolving red-carpet confidence, complemented by boho-braided tresses, a gold Elie Saab Pre-Fall 2015 Abat-Jour clutch, and Giuseppe Zanotti Serpent flat sandals.

She completed the ensemble with Jennifer Fisher gold jewelry, proving that even in casual settings, her fashion instincts lean decisively luxe.

Elie Saab High-Slit Ombre Silk Gown in Coral Reef/Lemon, $7,895

When The Final Girls premiered at SXSW on March 13, 2015, the cast—including Nina Dobrev, Taissa Farmiga, and Malin Akerman—joined director Todd Strauss-Schulson to debut the quirky horror-comedy.

Taissa Farmiga as Max Cartwright, Nina Dobrev as Vicki Summers, and Thomas Middleditch as Duncan in the 2015 American comedy horror film The Final Girls (Credit: Stage 6 Films)

Behind the laughs, co-writer Joshua John Miller revealed that the project held deep personal meaning, inspired by the loss of his father, actor Jason Miller of The Exorcist fame. This tribute added emotional depth to the film’s campy charm.

Nina Dobrev, Malin Akerman, and Taissa Farmiga Showcase Designer Elegance at The Final Girls TIFF Premiere

When The Final Girls premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, each star brought her own designer flair to the red carpet. Nina Dobrev stunned in a form-fitting Versace dress paired with Alexa Wagner heels, Malin Akerman opted for a romantic Valentino gown, and Taissa Farmiga radiated youthful elegance in Dolce & Gabbana.

Nina Dobrev, Malin Akerman, Todd Strauss-Schulson, and Taissa Farmiga attend The Final Girls photocall during the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival at the Ryerson Theatre on September 19, 2015—Nina in a black Versace cut-out dress with Alexa Wagner platform heels, Malin in a plunging Valentino star-embroidered gown, and Taissa in a red Dolce & Gabbana lace dress with nude pumps (Credit: Dara Kushner / INFphoto)

As this concludes our look at The Final Girls era of Nina Dobrev’s red-carpet style, it’s worth revisiting how her fashion choices—and especially her footwear—have evolved over the years. From bold color statements to minimalist elegance, she continues to prove that great shoes can anchor any look.

Nina Dobrev’s Best Shoe & Fashion Moments