Looking back at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards in June 2014, the red carpet was filled with standout fashion moments — but not all were hits. Amid the glamorous gowns and statement heels, a few style missteps grabbed attention for the wrong reasons.
One surprising fashion miss came from the usually stylish Laura Whitmore, whose bold outfit choice didn’t quite land as expected.
Naomi Campbell turned heads in a dramatic red and black feathered Alexander McQueen dress paired with gladiator sandals at the same event.
Laura Whitmore at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards 2014 at Berkeley Square Gardens in London, England, on June 3, 2014 (Credit: Joe / Lia Toby / WENN)
Breaking Down Laura Whitmore’s Eye-Catching Ungaro Look
She captured people’s attention for all the wrong reasons at an event that expected everyone to be glamorous. Laura was photographed in an Emanuel Ungaro ensemble of a busy black-and-turquoise dress and ruffled sandals.
There’s a lot happening in the Irish TV presenter’s dress. It features a polka-dotted chiffon sleeve on one side, a shorter sleeve on the other, diagonal ruffles, a striped bodice, and a thigh-high slit.
The clashing patterns didn’t do her any good. Her rather messy hairstyle was disappointing, but we love her flawless makeup.
Laura Whitmore turned heads in a bold Emanuel Ungaro ensemble featuring clashing polka dots, stripes, ruffles, and statement sandals at the 2014 Glamour Women of the Year Awards
Statement Sandals That Demanded Attention — and Possibly a Pedicure
Laura’s Emanuel Ungaro footwear also caught our eyes, but it was painful to see how she tried to keep her toes together. Just take a look at her poor pinky toes!
Laura Whitmore’s ruffled sandals may have made a statement, but her squished pinky toes revealed a painful fashion fail that stole the spotlight
Although the wearer was uncomfortable, the shoes are undoubtedly tough to ignore, thanks (or no thanks) to the pleated organza ruffles that scream for attention. Aside from the crazy frills, they have polka-dotted outsoles, a back zipper fastening, open toes, and 4.5-inch heels.
Laura Whitmore showed off her ankle tattoo in black Emanuel Ungaro wrap-around ruffled leather sandals on the red carpet
Emanuel Ungaro (1933–2019) was a French fashion designer who founded his namesake couture house in 1965. Trained under Cristóbal Balenciaga, he became known for vibrant colors, bold prints, and sensual, feminine designs that blended elegant draping with a modern edge.
Ungaro’s designs were a red carpet favorite due to their vivid aesthetic and couture craftsmanship. Stars like Fergie, Taraji P. Henson, Katy Perry, and Zoe Saldaña wore his gowns for their bold yet sophisticated appeal.
Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Emanuel Ungaro
Emanuel Ungaro’s bold and eclectic designs have long been a celebrity favorite, gracing red carpets and high-profile events. Here are some standout moments featuring Emanuel Ungaro:
Taraji P. Henson in a Floral Emanuel Ungaro Mini Dress
- Event: 2016 Fox TCA All-Star Party
- Outfit: Taraji P. Henson radiated in a playful floral Emanuel Ungaro mini dress adorned with vibrant prints and structured shoulders.
- Footwear: She paired the dress with chic black Alexa Wagner “Nicole” sandals, adding a touch of elegance to her ensemble.
- More Details: Taraji P. Henson’s flirty floral look in Emanuel Ungaro
Fergie Shines in a Yellow Emanuel Ungaro Dress
- Event: TrevorLIVE LA 2013
- Outfit: Fergie turned heads in a buttoned-up yellow Emanuel Ungaro dress, showcasing her vibrant style.
- Footwear: She completed the look with Christian Louboutin “So Kate” pumps, adding a classic touch to her bold outfit.
- More Details: Fergie’s radiant appearance in Emanuel Ungaro at TrevorLIVE LA
Penélope Cruz Dazzles in a Black Emanuel Ungaro Mini Dress
- Event: Feroz Awards 2016
- Outfit: Penélope Cruz stunned in a black mini dress by Emanuel Ungaro, featuring a scalloped neckline and glittery lace fabric.
- Footwear: She paired the dress with her favorite Christian Louboutin peep-toe pumps, adding a touch of glamour to her look.
- More Details: Penélope Cruz’s stunning black mini dress by Emanuel Ungaro
Zoe Saldaña Elevates Cannes Red Carpet with Emanuel Ungaro
- Event: 66th Cannes Film Festival
- Outfit: Zoe Saldaña wore a beige and black top paired with a polka-dotted skirt from Emanuel Ungaro’s Fall 2013 collection.
- Footwear: She enhanced her ensemble with orange Oscar Tiye sandals, adding vibrant pops of color.
- More Details: Zoe Saldaña’s chic Ungaro ensemble at Cannes
Zendaya Channels ’90s Vibes in Emanuel Ungaro
- Event: 2014 BET Awards
- Outfit: Zendaya brought street style to the red carpet in an Emanuel Ungaro varsity jacket and a ruffle-trimmed maxi skirt.
- Footwear: She completed her look with Brian Atwood “Clizia” platform sandals, showcasing her fashion-forward sense.
- More Details: Zendaya’s ’90s-inspired Emanuel Ungaro look
These moments highlight Emanuel Ungaro’s appeal among celebrities, offering designs that range from bold statements to elegant classics.
Ruffled and Ready: Shop the Look with Stylish Alternatives
Would you wear Laura Whitmore’s statement sandals? While this Emanuel Ungaro pair is sold out, you can find stylish ruffle sandal alternatives at Nordstrom and Zappos.
Emanuel Ungaro Wrap-Around Ruffled Leather Sandals, $1,645