Why Ronda Rousey’s Givenchy “Nadia” Sandals Remain a Masterclass in Tisci-Era Minimalism

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Ronda Rousey has long been a trailblazer in combat sports, but her red-carpet appearances offer a different perspective on her personal style.

Ronda Rousey wears her hair down at the 20th anniversary of the "Erasing the Stigma" Leadership AwardsRonda Rousey wears her hair down at the 20th anniversary of the “Erasing the Stigma” Leadership Awards held on April 28, 2016, in Los Angeles (Credit: WENN)

In April 2016, Rousey arrived at the “Erasing the Stigma” Leadership Awards in Los Angeles alongside fellow UFC fighter Travis Browne, marking a significant early public appearance for the couple.

Ronda Rousey pairs a black-and-white off-the-shoulder geometric dress with a structured reptile-embossed top-handle bag and matching monochrome ankle-strap heels on the red carpetRonda Rousey pairs a black-and-white off-the-shoulder geometric dress with a structured reptile-embossed top-handle bag and matching monochrome ankle-strap heels on the red carpet (Credit: WENN)

For the occasion, Rousey wore a black-and-white geometric dress with an off-the-shoulder neckline. The look was defined by its structured silhouette, which she paired with a dainty reptile-embossed clutch.

The standout element of the ensemble was her choice of footwear: Givenchy “Nadia” patent sandals. These sandals, which were also famously worn by Amanda Seyfried, perfectly complemented her tattooed feet and added a sleek, modern finish to the formal attire.

A close-up reveals her Givenchy “Nadia” sandals with a white toe strap, glossy black ankle strap, and slim stiletto heel framing her tattooed footA close-up reveals her Givenchy “Nadia” sandals with a white toe strap, glossy black ankle strap, and slim stiletto heel framing her tattooed foot (Credit: WENN)

The pair, who first met in 2013 at the Glendale Fighting Club, confirmed their relationship in late 2015.

While the public often sees Rousey in the octagon or the wrestling ring, this event highlighted a more refined side of her wardrobe, centered around a monochromatic color palette and high-end footwear.

“It’s true that Travis and I are in a relationship,” she told ESPN at the time. “I’ve really enjoyed the time we have spent together and getting to know one another.”

Ronda Rousey and boyfriend Travis Browne pose for photos on the red carpetRonda Rousey and boyfriend Travis Browne pose for photos on the red carpet (Credit: WENN)

In September 2021, Ronda Rousey announced the birth of her first child with her husband, Travis Browne. Their daughter, La’akea Makalapuaokalanipo Browne, was born on September 27, 2021, in Venice, California.

Travis is also the father of two sons, Keawe and Kaleo, from his relationship with ex-wife Erin Browne, with whom he was married until 2009.

WWE wrestler Ronda Rousey and mixed martial artist Travis Browne with his sons Keawe and KaleoWWE wrestler Ronda Rousey and mixed martial artist Travis Browne with his sons Keawe and Kaleo at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Awards 2018 at Barker Hangar on July 19, 2018, in Santa Monica, California (Credit: Milla Cochran / Startraksphoto)

Ronda Rousey, who stands at 5’5″ (165.1 cm), is five years younger and notably shorter than her husband, Travis Browne, who measures 6’7″ (200 cm).

Ronda Rousey keeps it casual in a fitted gray dress and flip-flops alongside Travis Browne, whose athletic shorts and slides emphasize their striking height differenceRonda Rousey keeps it casual in a fitted gray dress and flip-flops alongside Travis Browne, whose athletic shorts and slides emphasize their striking height difference (Credit: Sasha Lazic / INFphoto)

Rather than being a current-season buy, Ronda Rousey’s embossed patent Givenchy “Nadia” sandals reflect a defining moment in Riccardo Tisci’s tenure at Givenchy, when sporty minimalism collided with sharp couture precision.

Introduced in the mid-2010s, the Nadia became a quiet red-carpet staple—recognizable for its clean, architectural lines and subtle athletic edge.

The design balances a classic two-strap silhouette with distinctly modern details: a structured ankle strap, a slightly squared open toe, and a slim stiletto heel typically ranging from 65mm to 85mm. Monochrome color-blocking—especially in black and white, as seen on Rousey—gave the style its signature graphic finish, often accented with metallic piping for a futuristic polish.

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Crafted in finishes ranging from high-gloss patent leather to matte calfskin and embossed exotic textures, the Nadia offered versatility without sacrificing edge, making it a favorite for events that demanded both structure and ease.

Though no longer in active production, the silhouette remains a sought-after piece from Givenchy’s Tisci era. Pairs occasionally surface on the secondary market—think curated resale platforms—where collectors continue to value its balance of wearability and design clarity.

Black and White Givenchy "Nadia" Leather Sandals

Black and White Givenchy "Nadia" Leather Sandals

Givenchy's 'Nadia' sandals get a sporty and sleek makeover with monochrome color-blockingGivenchy’s ‘Nadia’ sandals get a sporty and sleek makeover with monochrome color-blocking