Just when we thought the studded shoe trend had faded, Brian Atwood and Gossip Girl brought it roaring back to life—proving that edgy embellishments never go out of style.
On September 1, 2011, Gossip Girl’s ultimate fashionista, Blake Lively, stepped onto the Upper East Side set in a pair of jaw-dropping Brian Atwood Power Studs—single-handedly reviving the studded shoe craze.
Blake Lively wearing a geometric print white tank top, a slightly wrinkled lavender pleated skirt, and a champagne-colored sequin vest with feather trim
Blake Lively wore this outfit with flip-flops while off-camera, but she changed into purple suede pumps to film the scene.
Blake Lively was seen on the set of Gossip Girl in NYC on September 1, 2011, wearing a chic ensemble that included a Haute Hippie feather sequin vest, a Rodarte for Opening Ceremony reverse pleated skirt, accessorized with a Mulberry Resort 2012 Harriet ostrich tote, and a Siman Tu veined white turquoise necklace (Credit: A. Miller / Ivan Nikolov / David Bodrick / DMBJ / WENN)
Even at a distance, these bold beauties command attention—an instant showstopper in rich burgundy suede with gleaming metallic studs. Hold on to your seats, everyone, and get ready to be blown away by these beguiling burgundy beauties:
A close-up of Blake Lively in ‘Power Studs’ by Brian Atwood, showcasing the luxe suede and daring studs that redefine footwear elegance
Blake Lively wearing ‘Power Studs’ suede platform pumps from Brian Atwood
Fashion websites quickly identified Blake Lively’s shoes as the aptly named ‘Power Studs’ suede platform pumps by Brian Atwood.
Brian Atwood Power Studs Suede Platform Pumps, $1,900.00
That studding detail is something else. I daresay it makes that thick 5 1/2″ heel look as sexy and attractive as a pin-thin stiletto. Of course, that’s without the pin-thinness and ankle-breaking unbalanced feeling.
Blake Lively’s stunning Brian Atwood ‘Power Studs’ pumps weren’t just a statement piece for Gossip Girl—they helped reignite the studded shoe trend, making a bold comeback on red carpets and in everyday fashion. From Hollywood premieres to street style, studded heels became the go-to choice for adding a touch of edge to any outfit.
The best part? You don’t need a Gossip Girl-sized budget to get the look. Nordstrom offers a variety of studded heels, from sleek designer pumps to affordable statement styles, making it easy to channel Blake Lively’s bold footwear choice. Whether you prefer subtle embellishments or full-on rockstar glam, there’s a studded shoe for every occasion.
Stars Embracing the Studded Heel Trend
Many celebrities have embraced this edgy yet glamorous footwear choice, from bold metallic embellishments to subtle studded accents. Let’s look at some of the most stylish studded heel moments spotted on Hollywood’s elite:
Kim Raver’s Bold Black and Gold Studded Heels
- Event: ‘Gangster Squad’ Premiere
- Outfit: Kim Raver stunned in a red zip-front dress, complemented by a metallic snakeskin clutch and a chunky gold cuff.
- Footwear: She completed her look with black and gold studded stilettos, adding an edgy flair to her ensemble.
- More Details: Kim Raver’s studded stilettos at the ‘Gangster Squad’ premiere
Paula Patton’s Fierce Red Leather Ensemble with Studded Pumps
- Event: Night Out in New York City
- Outfit: Paula Patton turned heads in a bold red leather dress, accessorized with chic black sunglasses.
- Footwear: She elevated her look with Saint Laurent ‘Janis’ platform pumps featuring silver micro-studs and sky-high heels.
- More Details: Paula Patton’s studded Saint Laurent ‘Janis’ pumps
Kelly Osbourne’s Edgy Alexander McQueen Studded Pumps
- Event: 2013 Young Hollywood Awards
- Outfit: Kelly Osbourne showcased a fun and flirty bright yellow frock, perfectly complementing her purple hair.
- Footwear: She added an edge with Alexander McQueen platform pumps adorned with gold-tone nailhead studs.
- More Details: Kelly Osbourne’s studded Alexander McQueen pumps at the Young Hollywood Awards
Selena Gomez’s Chic White Mini-Dress with Studded Heels
- Event: Unspecified Event
- Outfit: Selena Gomez dazzled in a draped slit-sleeve white mini-dress from the BCBG Max Azria Spring 2010 collection.
- Footwear: She showcased her feet in studded nude heels with feather accents from the Sergio Rossi Fall 2010 collection.
- More Details: Selena Gomez’s studded Sergio Rossi heels
Rashida Jones’s Embellished Black Mesh Heels
- Event: ‘The Social Network’ Los Angeles Premiere
- Outfit: Rashida Jones turned heads in a boldly patterned dress with minimal accessories.
- Footwear: She dazzled in embellished black mesh heels, perfectly complementing her deep red pedicure.
- More Details: Rashida Jones’s studded heels at ‘The Social Network’ premiere
These instances highlight how studded heels continue to be a favorite among celebrities, adding an edgy yet sophisticated touch to their ensembles.
Blake Lively’s Haute Hippie Feathered Vest: A Glamorous Statement
Blake Lively’s pretty feathery vest is the following piece from Haute Hippie. I love how this vest makes you look like you’re wearing a feather boa from the front. While a feather boa might not be practical for everyday wear, incorporating it as trim on a vest? That’s something you can get away with.
Haute Hippie Feather Sequin Vest