Rihanna’s Shoe Switch: From Red Carpet Glam to Street-Chic Adidas Style

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Rihanna never plays it safe when it comes to fashion, and her shoes are no exception. In this style spotlight, we’re breaking down two of her most memorable looks: a sleek night-out moment in Manolo Blahnik “Chaos” sandals and a bold streetwear ensemble featuring Adidas Pro Model sneakers.

You’ll also discover how other fashion icons like Kim Kardashian, Emma Watson, and Gigi Hadid style these same designer picks—and where you can shop similar shoes to elevate your own wardrobe. Whether you’re into leg-lengthening heels or celeb-approved sneakers, this guide brings inspiration, outfit ideas, and shopping links right to your screen.

You never know what to expect from Rihanna whenever she steps out in public. After attending the 2013 Grammys in Los Angeles, the then-25-year-old superstar jetted to London to attend one of the shows at London Fashion Week.

Sleek and Sexy: Rihanna Rocks Manolo Blahnik Chaos Sandals

The Barbadian singer, songwriter, and actress showcased her feet in black “Chaos” sandals from Manolo Blahnik, paired with a body-hugging little black dress and a croc-embossed biker jacket by Trapstar.

Rihanna arriving back at her hotel in London and partying at The Box club in Soho after her fashion show during London Fashion Week on February 17, 2013Rihanna arriving back at her hotel in London and partying at The Box club in Soho after her fashion show during London Fashion Week on February 17, 2013 (Credit: Will Alexander / WENN)

It’s hard to go wrong with an LBD, leather, and black sandals, so I’m a fan of Rihanna’s heel choice. She could have chosen something louder, but her sandals are so chic and timeless!

Her deep, dark burgundy lips added the perfect finishing touch for this London nighttime look.

Rihanna paired her Manolo Blahnik "Chaos" sandals with a figure-hugging little black dress and a croc-embossed biker jacket by Trapstar for a sleek, edgy night-out lookRihanna paired her Manolo Blahnik “Chaos” sandals with a figure-hugging little black dress and a croc-embossed biker jacket by Trapstar for a sleek, edgy night-out look

Beloved by celebrities and fashion insiders alike, the Manolo Blahnik “Chaos” sandal has become a modern classic. Its sleek silhouette and timeless appeal have made it a go-to for red carpets, runways, and everyday glam.

Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Manolo Blahnik’s ‘Chaos’ Sandals

The minimalist elegance of Manolo Blahnik’s “Chaos” sandals has made them a favorite among celebrities. Here are some standout moments featuring these iconic heels:

Kim Kardashian’s Elegant Ensemble with ‘Chaos’ Sandals

  • Event: Vogue 100 Festival in London
  • Outfit: Kim donned a glitzy dusty pink frock that clung to her post-baby curves, complemented by minimal jewelry.
  • Footwear: She completed her look with classic black “Chaos” sandals, highlighting their versatility.
  • See more: Kim Kardashian Reveals Natural Makeup Routine in Dusty Pink Dress

Emma Watson’s Sustainable Fashion Statement

  • Event: “Beauty and the Beast” London Premiere
  • Outfit: Emma wore an Emilia Wickstead gown crafted from salvaged fabric pieces, emphasizing sustainable fashion.
  • Footwear: She paired her gown with metallic silver “Chaos” sandals, adding a touch of glamour to her eco-conscious ensemble.
  • Discover more: Emma Watson’s Stunning Cape Gown & Silver Sandals

Victoria Beckham’s Chic Street Style

  • Event: Out and about in Manhattan
  • Outfit: Victoria showcased her fashion-forward style in a tailored ensemble, accessorized with her own brand’s sunglasses and half moon bag.
  • Footwear: She finished her look with black leather “Chaos” sandals, demonstrating their timeless appeal.
  • Explore her style: Victoria Beckham in Black Manolo Blahnik ‘Chaos’ Sandals

Chrissy Teigen’s Glamorous Appearance

These moments highlight the versatility and timeless elegance of Manolo Blahnik’s “Chaos” sandals, making them a staple in celebrity wardrobes.

Rihanna shows off her pedicured toes and falcon ankle tattoo in black Manolo Blahnik "Chaos" sandals, featuring a minimalist ankle-strap design that elongates the legsRihanna shows off her pedicured toes and falcon ankle tattoo in black Manolo Blahnik “Chaos” sandals, featuring a minimalist ankle-strap design that elongates the legs

Shop the Look: Manolo Blahnik Chaos Sandals in Every Color

We found the ‘Chaos’ sandals in black at Nordstrom. These chic and straightforward sandals are perfect for a date night, clubbing, or brunch, when paired with the right outfit. What do you think of the Chaos sandals?

Manolo Blahnik 'Chaos' in BlackManolo Blahnik ‘Chaos’ in Black, $695

Manolo Blahnik 'Chaos' in LeopardManolo Blahnik ‘Chaos’ in Leopard, $695

Manolo Blahnik 'Chaos' in GoldManolo Blahnik ‘Chaos’ in Gold, $695

Manolo Blahnik 'Chaos' in RedManolo Blahnik ‘Chaos’ in Red, $695

From Glam to Street: Rihanna Switches Up Her Look

The same day, Rihanna was spotted in good spirits as she exited her hotel, flashing a bright smile to all her fans and the paparazzi waiting for her.

Rihanna styled her loose, honey-blonde waves with a vintage-inspired black beanie featuring a cameo brooch, flashing a bright smile as she left her London hotelRihanna styled her loose, honey-blonde waves with a vintage-inspired black beanie featuring a cameo brooch, flashing a bright smile as she left her London hotel on February 17, 2013 (Credit: Stuart Castle / WENN

While Riri stunned in an ethereal red gown at the Grammys, she later returned to her signature hip-hop street-chic vibe, stepping out in a black Trapstar Irongate Stadium jacket paired with a grey Rihanna thigh-split sweat maxi skirt and a matching grey marl Rihanna cropped sweatshirt from her River Island collection.

She finished the look with a Silver Spoon Attire vintage cameo beanie, oversized sunglasses, a Joyrich python PU backpack, and white Adidas Pro Model sneakers—an instantly recognizable choice, thanks to the brand’s signature three-stripe design that’s cemented Adidas as one of the most identifiable footwear labels in the world.

Rihanna embraced sporty street style in a black varsity jacket and high-slit gray maxi skirt, finishing the look with a beanie, oversized shades, and classic white Adidas sneakersRihanna embraced sporty street style in a black varsity jacket and high-slit gray maxi skirt, finishing the look with a beanie, oversized shades, and classic white Adidas sneakers

I love her fresh white sneakers, and I’m a huge fan of maxi skirts, so this look is a win for me. The casual but cool vibe that Rihanna pulled together here has me drooling as well.

Rihanna stepped out in crisp white adidas Pro Model sneakers, featuring the brand’s iconic shell toe and three black stripes, adding a sporty edge to her thigh-slit maxi skirt lookRihanna stepped out in crisp white Adidas Pro Model sneakers, featuring the brand’s iconic shell toe and three black stripes, adding a sporty edge to her thigh-slit maxi skirt look

What do you think? I love her sunnies and beanie paired with the long, yet sexy, skirt. The jacket and sneakers added the perfect element of edge-meets-street. Do you agree? Would you wear these Adidas sneakers with a skirt like what Rihanna did above?

Rihanna’s look proves that Adidas kicks can elevate even the most unexpected pairings—like a high-slit maxi skirt and a varsity jacket. If her sporty-chic style inspires you, check out our guide to the best Adidas shoes for fashion and function. And before you buy, be sure to use our adidas shoe size chart and calculator to get the perfect fit across styles.

Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Adidas Sneakers

Adidas sneakers have become a staple in celebrity wardrobes, offering both comfort and style. Here are some standout moments featuring celebrities in their favorite Adidas kicks:

Emma Stone’s Effortlessly Chic Airport Look

Kendall Jenner’s Sleek Street Style

  • Event: Out and about in New York City
  • Outfit: Kendall Jenner turned heads in a sleeveless Sally LaPointe dress paired with a floor-length silk coat.
  • Footwear: She opted for white Adidas ‘Stan Smith’ sneakers, blending elegance with streetwear effortlessly.
  • See more: Kendall Jenner Wears Iconic White Adidas Stan Smith Tennis Sneakers

Gigi Hadid’s Fashion-Forward Breakfast Date

Katy Perry’s Bold Date Night Look

Eva Longoria’s All-White Airport Ensemble

  • Event: Arrival at LAX
  • Outfit: Eva Longoria embraced the white-on-white trend with a long-sleeved top and loose-fitting pants.
  • Footwear: She wore Adidas Originals ‘Stan Smith’ Boost Primeknit sneakers, adding a sporty edge to her travel attire.
  • Explore her style: Celebrities Rock Stylish Comfortable Shoes for LAX Strolls

These moments highlight the versatility and timeless appeal of Adidas sneakers, making them a favorite choice for celebrities seeking both comfort and style.