Riley Keough Gives Cannes’ Emerging Clear Shoe Trend a Wedge Twist in Alaïa

Actress Riley Keough showcased a new variation of the transparent shoe trend at Cannes, wearing Alaïa’s sculptural wedge sandals during the ‘Soudain’ competition screening on Friday. Her choice marked a notable evolution in the trend, which has been gaining momentum among celebrities this season.

Keough’s footwear was Alaïa’s Invisible Thong Sandals, priced at $1,690, featuring a black patent thong strap, a slim ankle buckle, and a distinctive 90mm plexiglass wedge with a sculpted, cutout design. Unlike typical clear heels, the wedge’s black patent frame surrounding the transparent plexiglass added architectural dimension to the shoe, making it more substantial in appearance.

She paired the sandals with a custom black Alaïa dress, which was strapless with a gathered full skirt that opened at the front and sides, allowing the shoes to be fully visible. The look was styled by Jamie Mizrahi. The same sandal silhouette was seen earlier in the week on actress Hannah Einbinder at a Cannes photocall, indicating a growing trend among attendees.

Why It Matters

This development is significant because it signals a shift in the ongoing transparent shoe trend, moving from minimal PVC mules to more sculptural, architectural designs. Keough’s choice highlights how high fashion is exploring more substantial and statement-making footwear, which could influence upcoming collections and red carpet styles.

Background

The transparent shoe trend gained prominence earlier this year with various celebrities sporting see-through styles, often in minimal mule forms. Cannes has become a showcase for such trends, with Keough’s appearance following other celebrities like Hannah Einbinder and previous appearances by stars such as Keke Palmer and Zoë Kravitz, who have also embraced clear footwear in different forms. Alaïa’s wedge design introduces a new dimension to this ongoing trend, blending transparency with sculptural craftsmanship.

“Cannes feels like the birthplace of so many incredible films and careers, and I wanted to bring a different kind of fashion statement here.”

— Riley Keough

“The Invisible Thong Sandal’s sculptural wedge reimagines the transparent shoe for a modern, architectural look.”

— Alaïa

What Remains Unclear

It remains unclear whether this wedge design will influence mainstream footwear trends or remain a statement piece for Cannes. The long-term impact on the transparent shoe movement is still uncertain, and whether other designers will adopt similar sculptural approaches is yet to be seen.

What’s Next

Fashion watchers will likely see more variations of transparent and sculptural footwear at upcoming events and collections. Further appearances of similar designs at Cannes or other major festivals could confirm a broader shift in footwear aesthetics.

Key Questions

What makes Riley Keough’s shoes different from previous transparent shoes?

Her Alaïa sandals feature a sculptural plexiglass wedge with a black patent frame, adding architectural dimension compared to typical minimal clear heels.

Are these wedge sandals available for purchase?

Yes, the Alaïa Invisible Thong Sandal in black patent calfskin is priced at $1,690 and is available through select retailers or Alaïa boutiques.

Will this wedge shoe trend continue after Cannes?

It is uncertain; while the trend is gaining visibility, whether it will become mainstream depends on future celebrity and designer adoption.

Who else has worn similar transparent wedge shoes recently?

Actress Hannah Einbinder wore a similar Alaïa wedge at a Cannes photocall earlier this week, and other celebrities like Keke Palmer and Zoë Kravitz have sported transparent footwear in different styles recently.