This year’s Fashion Week front rows have been dominated by black-and-white ensembles. During Paris Fashion Week, Chanel and Dior front-row guests wore the classic color pairing. New York Fashion Week was no different, as more stars graced the coveted front row in black and white. This recurring black-and-white trend is a refreshing nod to timeless elegance, making a statement across major fashion capitals. At New York Fashion Week, this classic pairing continued its dominance, with Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2025 presentation offering a fresh take on the theme.
Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2025 presentation showcased a stunning array of designs, from minimalist gowns to intricately embroidered floral pieces, along with sophisticated knitwear and impeccably tailored suits. Under the creative direction of Wes Gordon, the collection reimagined Herrera’s signature feminine silhouettes with a bold, ’70s-inspired edge. His expert use of both spring and autumnal hues beautifully captured the fleeting transition between seasons.
While the runway featured a dynamic mix of textures and styles, the front-row attendees embraced their own interpretations of monochrome elegance. Dove Cameron, Emmy Rossum, and Nicole Scherzinger each brought their distinctive fashion sensibilities to the event, proving that black-and-white styling remains endlessly versatile.
Though statement heels could have added an extra layer of personality, their choice of monochrome footwear still made an impact. The refined details and subtle contrasts elevated their looks, offering a fresh take on classic elegance without relying on the standard black pump.
Dove Cameron, Nicole Scherzinger, and Emmy Rossum arrive at the New York Fashion Week Ready-to-Wear Carolina Herrera show (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
1. Dove Cameron Stuns in Black Spool-Heeled Pumps and Chic Monochrome Ensemble
I adore Dove Cameron’s sense of style, which is often edgy yet feminine. She showcased her signature aesthetic at the Carolina Herrera fashion show, fusing the high-fashion edge of the black-and-white combo with the soft-girl vibe.
Cameron wore shiny black patent leather pumps with a classic pointed toe. The spool heels, however, injected modern flair into the rather typical pump silhouette.
I’m guessing they’re by Carolina Herrera, considering the NYC-based label has released pumps with spool heels. Besides, Dove accessorized her look with pieces from the designer, including a pair of Carolina Herrera oversized sunglasses with white temples and a black patent leather Continental pouch.
Dove Cameron displays her tattooed feet in a pair of black patent pointed-toe pumps with spool heels (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
Cameron wore an ensemble from Herrera’s Pre-Fall 2025 collection. Showcasing her cleavage and toned abs, she wore a white bralette with a low square neckline and a cropped silhouette. It’s made from strips of intricate broderie anglaise cotton that give it a lacy brocade texture, while the black bow accent on either side enhances its feminine and romantic appeal.
I love how the simplicity of the white color contrasts with the intricate texture, adding visual depth to the bralette.
She complemented it with a black midi skirt that matched her top’s bow appliques and floral brocade texture. I love how the voluminous silhouette enhanced the overall appearance!
Unfortunately, we couldn’t see the entire design of her top as she draped a black cape over her shoulders outside the Solow Building. But I appreciate how it made her look more elegant and cozy.
Dove Cameron embraces a soft-girl aesthetic in a white broderie anglaise cotton bralette with black bow accents, a voluminous black midi skirt, and a cape (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
Dove’s footwear choice wasn’t just elegant—it was part of a growing trend. Spool heels, characterized by their distinctive hourglass shape, have made a notable resurgence in the fashion world.
Celebrities are embracing this elegant heel style, seamlessly incorporating it into their ensembles. Here are some standout moments:
Spool Heel Revival: Celebrities Embracing the Hourglass Heel Trend
Lily Collins’ Monochrome Moment
- Event: “Emily in Paris” Season 4 Press Tour
- Outfit: Lily Collins donned a merlot-colored suit by Nina Ricci, exuding a sophisticated autumnal vibe.
- Footwear: She completed her look with matching merlot pumps featuring sharp, pointed toes and towering spool heels, adding a modern twist to her ensemble.
- More Details: Lily Collins’ Chic Press Tour Outfits
Ariana Grande’s Vintage Glam
- Event: 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony
- Outfit: Ariana Grande captivated audiences in a pink sleeveless gown by Thom Browne, reminiscent of classic Hollywood glamour.
- Footwear: She paired her elegant dress with pale pink-and-white heels that featured brogue-inspired wingtip accents and delicate spool heels, blending vintage charm with contemporary style.
- More Details: Ariana Grande at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Katy Perry’s Edgy Ensemble
- Event: 2025 Invictus Games Closing Ceremony
- Outfit: Katy Perry showcased her bold fashion sense with a futuristic stage look, including color-changing shorts and armbands.
- Footwear: She opted for white Vetements x New Rock biker boots, distinguished by their quilted padding, upturned pointed toes, and 4-inch spool heels, adding a rugged yet glamorous touch to her performance attire.
- More Details: Katy Perry Rocks Vetements Biker Boots
Irina Shayk’s Sleek Black Sandals
- Event: Pre-Prep Party
- Outfit: Irina Shayk opted for a minimalist look, allowing her accessories to take center stage.
- Footwear: She wore black snakeskin-effect sandals featuring crisscross front straps, T-straps, and approximately 4-inch spool heels, adding a touch of sophistication to her ensemble.
- More Details: Irina Shayk’s Pre-Prep Party Look
Margot Robbie’s Monochromatic Chic
- Event: “The Suicide Squad” Premiere
- Outfit: Margot Robbie embraced a sleek, all-white look with a Chanel jumpsuit that exuded modern elegance.
- Footwear: She complemented her outfit with By Far’s “Lotta” sandals, featuring white leather uppers, a thong toe-post, slingback strap, and 4-inch spool heels, perfectly aligning with her monochromatic theme.
- More Details: Margot Robbie at “The Suicide Squad” Premiere
Greta Gerwig’s Burgundy Elegance
- Event: Cannes Film Festival
- Outfit: Greta Gerwig dazzled in a burgundy sequin gown by Saint Laurent, featuring a plunging neckline and center-front leg slit.
- Footwear: She paired her dress with matching Saint Laurent “Dune” slingback pumps, crafted from burgundy patent leather, featuring tortoiseshell buckles, elongated pointy toes, and spool heels, completing her sophisticated look.
- More Details: Greta Gerwig at Cannes Film Festival
These instances highlight the versatility and timeless appeal of spool heels, proving their place in both classic and contemporary fashion.
However, not all celebrities opted for this trend—some, like Nicole Scherzinger, turned to another footwear classic: cap-toe pumps.
2. Nicole Scherzinger Elevates Monochrome Style With Cap-Toe Pumps and Strapless Jumpsuit
Bold yet glamorous, Nicole Scherzinger demonstrated her signature style as she arrived in the front row wearing black pumps.
She wore the $760 Carolina Herrera “Classic” Spring 2024 leather pumps with whimsical pointed cap toes. They’re set on 3.1-inch heels, enough to add a few inches to Scherzinger’s 5’5” stature.
I like the timelessness of the color combination, with the white cap toes adding a unique and bold touch to its design. The striking contrast draws attention to the shoes and adds a distinctive touch to the otherwise classic silhouette.
Nicole Scherzinger opts for Carolina Herrera’s Classic black pumps with white toe caps, adding a whimsical element to the classic silhouette (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
The former Pussycat Dolls member put on a busty display in a black jumpsuit with a ruched bodice and a plunging strapless neckline. It also features voluminous bishop sleeves, which appear detachable and have been added for a dramatic touch.
It was cinched at the waist with a wide, embellished black belt, accentuating her hourglass figure. However, it wasn’t particularly noticeable as she wore a long white coat, probably also from the Venezuelan fashion designer, to remain warm outside the venue.
The lower portion of the ensemble consists of fitted pants cropped to her midcalf, which I appreciate because they don’t cover her shoes.
Scherzinger smartly skipped a necklace in favor of large pearl teardrop earrings, which enhanced her ensemble’s elegance. Adding extra star power to the look, she covered her eyes behind oversized ombre sunglasses and carried her essentials in a black clutch by Carolina Herrera.
Nicole Scherzinger puts on a busty display in a black plunging jumpsuit with dramatic bishop sleeves and a white coat (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
Cap-toe pumps have long been a staple in fashion, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern flair. Many celebrities have embraced this trend, showcasing their unique takes on this timeless footwear. Here are some standout moments:
Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Cap-Toe Pumps
Jennifer Hudson’s Bold Red Ensemble
- Event: Memoir Promotion
- Outfit: Jennifer Hudson promoted her memoir in a long-sleeved black dress.
- Footwear: She paired the dress with red suede cap-toe pumps, adding a vibrant pop of color to her ensemble.
- More Details: Jennifer Hudson’s Stylish Cap-Toe Pumps
Jessica Biel’s Elegant Premiere Look
- Event: “Total Recall” Los Angeles Premiere
- Outfit: Jessica Biel wore a pastel pink strapless dress, exuding grace and sophistication.
- Footwear: She complemented her attire with white pointed-toe pumps featuring metallic cap details, adding a modern twist to her classic look.
- More Details: Jessica Biel’s Height and Heels: How She Styles 5ft 6 ¾ Inches With Elegance
Nicole Kidman’s Chic Cannes Appearance
- Event: 66th Cannes Film Festival
- Outfit: Nicole Kidman dazzled in a sequined navy dress, showcasing her timeless style.
- Footwear: She paired her ensemble with black ankle-strap heels, featuring a sleek design that complemented her elegant outfit.
- More Details: Nicole Kidman Shines at Cannes: Sequins, Heels, and Red Carpet Glamour
Charlize Theron’s Textured Statement
- Event: Press Appearance
- Outfit: Charlize Theron opted for a chic ensemble, highlighting her statuesque figure.
- Footwear: She wore glossy, textured pumps finished with white cap toes, adding a distinctive element to her look.
- More Details: Jennifer Hudson’s Power Look: White Peplum Dress & Saint Laurent Pumps
Eva Longoria’s Academic Achievement Style
- Event: Graduation from California State University
- Outfit: Eva Longoria celebrated her academic success in traditional graduation attire.
- Footwear: She completed her look with sleek black Casadei pumps, adding a touch of elegance to her ensemble.
- More Details: Eva Longoria Shines in Casadei Heels at Graduation from California State University
These instances highlight the versatility and enduring appeal of cap-toe pumps, as celebrities continue to incorporate them into both classic and contemporary fashion statements.
3. Emmy Rossum Goes Retro-Chic in Houndstooth Pumps and Mini Dress
Going full-on retro, Emmy Rossum donned a head-to-toe black-and-white houndstooth-patterned ensemble. The pattern, often used to create a retro-chic vibe, gained popularity in the mid-20th century and continues to be worn today.
Rossum’s Carolina Herrera houndstooth pumps are my favorite! The striking pattern combined with the pump’s sleek and sophisticated silhouette makes for a statement-making look guaranteed to draw attention.
Her strappy houndstooth pumps feature pointed toes and two buckled straps: one wraps around the ankles and crosses at the front, while the other is slung around the back of the foot and fastened at the heel.
Emmy Rossum goes retro-chic, wearing a pair of houndstooth-patterned pumps with double ankle straps (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
She paired her striking heels with the designer’s houndstooth mini-dress, featuring a strapless bodice and a thigh-skimming hem. I adore how eye-catching this looks, especially with the peplum waist and 3D rosette accent that gives the classic design a whimsical and feminine touch.
Rossum’s love of the houndstooth pattern continued beyond her dress and shoes. She carried a houndstooth clutch and wore a coat of the same pattern over her shoulders to stay warm.
Emmy wore black tights, bold red lipstick, and voluminous tight curls, taking care of her glam squad hairstylist Jacob Rozenberg and makeup artist Fulvia Farolfi to enhance the look’s retro glamour.
Emmy Rossum completes a head-to-toe houndstooth look with a coat and a strapless mini-dress featuring a 3D rosette and a peplum detail (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
Houndstooth, a classic pattern characterized by its broken check design, has been a fashion staple for decades. Celebrities continue to embrace this timeless print, incorporating it into their wardrobes in various stylish ways. Here are some notable instances:
Timeless Elegance: Celebrities Who Love Houndstooth
Anya Taylor-Joy’s Retro Houndstooth Ensemble
- Event: Press Tour
- Outfit: Anya Taylor-Joy captivated onlookers with a vintage-inspired houndstooth outfit. She donned a cropped jacket and mini-skirt combo featuring a 1950s-style houndstooth pattern, exuding a retro touch.
- Footwear: She paired the ensemble with black knee-high boots, adding a contemporary flair to the classic print.
- More Details: Anya Taylor-Joy’s best retro-inspired looks
Hilary Duff’s Pink Houndstooth Coat
- Event: On the set of “Younger”
- Outfit: Hilary Duff channeled a chic look with a pastel pink houndstooth wool coat from Balenciaga. The statement piece featured a tailored fit, serving as the focal point of her ensemble.
- Styling: She kept the rest of her outfit solid-colored, allowing the bold houndstooth coat to take center stage.
- More Details: Hilary Duff’s standout outerwear choices
Emily Ratajkowski’s Vintage-Inspired Houndstooth Coat
- Event: Street Style Look
- Outfit: Emily Ratajkowski embraced a ’70s vibe with a brown houndstooth-patterned coat by Prada. The vintage-inspired outerwear featured a classic collar and large buttons, blending warmth with style.
- More Details: Emily Ratajkowski’s best winter coats
Blake Lively’s Print-on-Print Houndstooth Look
- Event: Paris Street Style
- Outfit: Blake Lively showcased her fashion-forward sense by mixing patterns. She paired an Isabel Marant striped sweater with Étoile houndstooth pants, creating a chic print-on-print ensemble.
- More Details: Blake Lively’s fearless approach to mixing prints
Amanda Seyfried’s Houndstooth Dress
- Event: “Lovelace” Press Tour
- Outfit: While promoting the movie “Lovelace,” Amanda Seyfried was spotted in a white-and-pink houndstooth-print dress from Balmain. The dress featured a modern take on the classic pattern, highlighting her elegant style.
- More Details: Amanda Seyfried’s most stylish movie press tour looks
These instances underscore the versatility and enduring appeal of houndstooth in contemporary fashion. As the monochrome trend continues to thrive, this pattern is a favorite among celebrities, offering a dynamic alternative to solid black-and-white ensembles.