Characterized by minimal design and structure, barely-there sandals typically feature very thin straps that provide basic support and secure the shoe to the foot, often with a single strap over the toes and another around the ankle.
The design aims to create an illusion that the wearer is almost barefoot, hence the name “barely-there.” This style emphasizes simplicity and elegance, making these sandals a versatile choice that can be dressed up or down for various occasions.
Barely-there sandals have surged in popularity due to their minimalist aesthetic, versatility, and comfort.
Among the most famous is the Stuart Weitzman ‘Nudist’ sandal, a staple on red carpets that offers a sleek and elegant silhouette with its thin straps and stiletto heel. The Gianvito Rossi ‘Portofino’ is another popular style known for its simple yet sophisticated design that pairs effortlessly with casual and formal attire.
The Stuart Weitzman ‘Nudist’ and Gianvito Rossi ‘Portofino’ are among the most famous barely-there sandals, celebrated for their elegant and minimalist designs
Elegance Meets Simplicity: How Barely-There Sandals Dominated Writers Guild Awards
Several celebrities hit the red carpet in barely-there sandals at the 2018 Writers Guild Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Who do you think was best dressed?
1. Alison Brie: Elegance in Vivienne Westwood and Jimmy Choo’s Minimalist Sandals
Alison Brie adopting a gothic flair for the 2018 Writers Guild Awards LA ceremony (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
The Mad Men actress donned a gray off-the-shoulder Vivienne Westwood dress that she paired with dramatic makeup, Ana Khouri jewelry, and black sandals by Jimmy Choo.
Alison Brie donned a gray Vivienne Westwood corset dress that stood out for its signature draped detailing (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
Alison Brie radiates elegance in an off-the-shoulder Vivienne Westwood dress, perfectly paired with minimalist Jimmy Choo sandals for a refined red carpet look at the 2018 Writers Guild Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on February 11, 2018 (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
A closer look at Alison Brie’s feet adorned in Jimmy Choo’s barely-there sandals, showcasing the ultimate in minimalist luxury (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
2. Greta Gerwig: Chic in Proenza Schouler and Christian Louboutin’s ‘Jonatina’ Sandals
The Barbie director looked lovely in a pink ruffle dress from the Proenza Schouler Spring/Summer 2018 collection featuring a flattering fishtail cut.
At the 2018 Writers Guild Awards LA ceremony, Greta Gerwig captivated with her Proenza Schouler Spring 2018 ensemble (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
She accessorized with Ana Khouri jewelry and barely-there Christian Louboutin ‘Jonatina’ sandals we’ve previously spotted on Hailee Steinfeld, Kristen Stewart, Jennifer Lawrence, and Blake Lively.
Greta Gerwig’s outfit represents a modern reimagining of classic ruffled fabrications, distinguished by a daring cut-out top paired with a fluted skirt, demonstrating a blend of traditional elegance with contemporary flair (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
Greta Gerwig captivates in a playful pink ruffle dress by Proenza Schouler, complemented by the delicate Christian Louboutin ‘Jonatina’ sandals, at the 2018 Writers Guild Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on February 11, 2018 (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
Greta Gerwig’s choice of Christian Louboutin ‘Jonatina’ sandals highlights her elegant feet, embodying the essence of barely-there footwear (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
3. Betty Gabriel: Radiant in Anaya Lace Dress and Loriblu’s Discreet Sandals
The American actress glittered in a long-sleeved floral lace dress from the Anaya Fall 2017 collection. Her silver ankle-length number was styled with a black waistband and satin sandals from Loriblu’s Spring/Summer 2018 collection.
Betty Gabriel’s dress, notable for its long sleeves, was accentuated with a contrasting black waistband, adding a touch of sophistication to her ensemble (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)
Betty Gabriel shines in a floral lace dress from Anaya’s Fall 2017 collection, elegantly accented with Loriblu’s minimalist sandals, at the 2018 Writers Guild Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on February 11, 2018 (Credit: WENN / FayesVision / Apega / Adriana M. Barraza)