Margaret Qualley's Chanel 'barefoot' sandals steal London premiere spotlight

Margaret Qualley turned heads at the London premiere of The Dog Stars on August 20, 2026, wearing Chanel's controversial 'barefoot' sandals, which leave most of the foot exposed. The design, by Matthieu Blazy, consists of a heel cap and thin ankle straps, with no sole covering the arch, ball, or toes, creating the illusion of walking barefoot Source: lavanguardia. Qualley paired the sandals with a black Chanel dress, making her the first high-profile celebrity to wear the design on a red carpet Source: infobae.

The design and reaction

The sandals debuted in Chanel's Resort 2027 collection, presented in Biarritz in April 2026. Blazy drew inspiration from coastal themes, evoking 'the simple sensation of a woman coming out of the beach or the sea' Source: infobae. The design sparked immediate debate: some saw it as audacious and conceptual, while others deemed it impractical or absurd Source: Excélsior. The New York Times called it 'irrational and meaningless luxury' and a 'metaphysical paradox' Source: infobae.

Availability and context

The sandals are not yet available for purchase in Chanel boutiques or online, and their price remains unknown. They have been given only to a select list of VIP clients, including Qualley Source: hoydo. Other pieces from the collection are expected to arrive in boutiques in November, but Chanel has not clarified whether the sandals will be available to the public Source: lavanguardia. Qualley's appearance also drew attention due to her recent separation from Jack Antonoff, with Page Six noting she arrived without her wedding ring Source: infobae.