When Elle Fanning arrived at the 2019 ESPY Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, she provided a masterclass in high-shine evening wear.
While other attendees—like Ciara in a famously wrinkled silhouette—struggled with fabric choice, Fanning opted for the impeccable structure of a custom Celine by Hedi Slimane gown.
Elle Fanning sparkles on the red carpet at the 2019 ESPY Awards in a silver, one-shoulder sequined gown that skims the floor with fluid elegance in Los Angeles on July 10, 2019 (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)
The shimmering silver sequins required a footwear choice that could hold its own against such heavy metallic texture.
Fanning delivered by grounding the look with silver Giuseppe Zanotti Barbra platform shoes. Featuring a distinctive knotted front, these towering platforms added the necessary height to balance the gown’s floor-skimming hemline while maintaining a cohesive, monochromatic aesthetic.
Elle Fanning isn’t the only celebrity to embrace the sculptural impact of Giuseppe Zanotti’s Barbra platform heels. Paris Jackson previously stepped out in the same silver silhouette, proving the design’s red-carpet versatility with a more playful, retro-leaning styling approach.
The shared choice underscores how Zanotti’s towering platforms transcend individual aesthetics—working just as seamlessly with shimmering couture gowns as they do with laid-back, seventies-inspired ensembles.
A closer look highlights the intricate draping and metallic texture of Elle Fanning’s custom silver gown, styled with understated beauty for a polished finish
During the show, she took the stage with Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller to present the award for Best College Athlete to Zion Williamson.
The new face of L’Oréal Paris was styled by Samantha McMillen. Her lovely hair was perfected by celebrity hairstylist and colorist Jenda Alcorn.
Posing confidently at the Microsoft Theater, Elle Fanning showcases the sculptural silhouette of her shimmering evening look against the ESPYs backdrop
Why Platform Heels Remain a Signature in Elle Fanning’s Red-Carpet Style
Elle Fanning’s choice of silver platform heels at the 2019 ESPY Awards is far from an isolated moment—it reflects a consistent styling strategy that balances couture drama with architectural footwear.
From towering platforms at Cannes to pastel pumps on the press circuit, Fanning repeatedly uses shoes to anchor statement gowns, enhance posture, and navigate demanding red-carpet settings.
This thoughtful approach to footwear has become a defining element of her fashion identity across premieres, award shows, and high-profile appearances.
👠 Explore Elle Fanning’s Best Shoe Fashion Moments on Best Quality Luxury Shoes Online Store:
- ✨ Elle Fanning’s Height, Shoe Size Best Red-Carpet Heels — A comprehensive profile linking her US shoe size 9 to standout heels from Louboutin, Miu Miu, and more.
- 👡 Elle Fanning’s Monochromatic Comic-Con Look Featuring Rupert Sanderson Elba Pumps — How Fanning paired coral “Elba” pumps with a playful summer dress at a high-profile appearance.
- 👠 Elle Fanning Masters Red Carpet Storytelling in Gucci — A roundup of her Gucci footwear moments from sneakers to ballet flats and more.
- 💫 Elle Fanning Radiates Retro Glamour in Pastel Valentino Lavender Pumps — A spring style moment blending classic gowns with matching pastel heels.
- 👟 Chic Cream Looks: Tod’s Pumps Valentino Mules with Fall Fashion — Recent press tour fashion anchored by sculptural pumps and sleek mules.
- 🥂 2026 Astra Film Awards: Aquazzura Saint Laurent Heels — Elle Fanning alongside other celebrities in minimalist, refined heels on the black carpet.
- 👠 Elle Fanning at Cannes 2023 with Towering Platform Heels — How she styled platforms with couture at one of the industry’s biggest events.