Chloe Zhao Just Gave Sneakers the Red Carpet Treatment

Each product has been independently selected by our editorial team. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.
Chloe Zhao Oscars
Handout/Getty Images

The award-winning director's fashion choice makes a strong case for comfy shoes for formal affairs -- and she's not the only one.

After spending over a year in our most comfortable clothes, it's understandable if the idea of wearing pieces that don't fall in the "undoubtedly cozy" category is one you've put off to the side. But don't worry, you aren't alone in this. At the 93rd Annual Academy Awards, attendees also opted for more comfortable styles, despite the formal dress code. But as luck would have it, these more casual shoe styles may have been some of the best parts of Sunday night's red carpet fashion. Case in point: Chloe Zhao's Hermès sneakers.

It's not every day that you see fresh and clean white sneakers on the red carpet, but the 2021 Oscars ceremony was certainly not your average Sunday -- especially in a year where comfort continues to reign supreme in the fashion world. The award-winning director, who won Oscars for Best Director and Best Picture for Nomadland, turned heads in her nude knit dress, also by Hermès. And if you're asking us, it was her white sneakers -- along with her pigtail braids -- that felt truly unique (and on that note, refreshing!). 

If you kept an eye on Oscars fashion throughout the night, you may have also noticed that Zhao wasn't the only guest in attendance with a preference for more comfortable shoes. And honestly speaking, we can't blame them for their choices!

Scroll down to see the comfortable shoe styles Hollywood's elite wore to celebrate the 93rd Annual Academy Awards and shop similar styles to wear to your next occasion.

Chloe Zhao

Nomadland's award-winning director proved that simple white sneakers are always a good idea -- even at black-tie affairs. Style a pair with a sleek dress like Zhao or with something more casual. There's no going wrong here.

Handout/Getty Images

Veja Espalar Sneaker

Veja Espalar Sneaker
Nordstrom

Veja Espalar Sneaker

If you want to recreate the Oscar-winning Nomadland director's awards ceremony look, be sure to grab these leather sneakers from the Meghan Markle-approved fashion brand Veja.

$120 at Nordstrom

Buy Now

Andra Day

If there's anyone who can pair fuzzy slippers with a high-octane dress, it's Andra Day. The actress, who transformed into Billie Holiday in The United States vs. Billie Holiday, paired black platform Ugg sandals with her shimmering backless silver gown for her post-ceremony celebration.

Jerritt Clark/Getty Images

Ugg Fluffita Slipper

Ugg Fluffita Slipper
Nordstrom

Ugg Fluffita Slipper

Take a cue from Andra Day and swap out your heels for these cozy platform sandals from Ugg. Without a doubt, they'll be sure to add a cool and comfortable look to any ensemble.

$100 at Ugg

Buy Now

Questlove

If there was any doubt that Crocs were making a major comeback, Questlove showed up to set the record straight. The musician sported shining metallic gold Croc clogs with his all-black ensemble for the night. 

Pool/Getty Images

Crocs Classic Metallic Clog

Crocs Classic Metallic Clog
DSW

Crocs Classic Metallic Clog

In case you haven't heard, Crocs are becoming a staple on the red carpet. Just take a look at Questlove's shoe choice at the 2021 Oscars. And now, you can sport with your own outfits.

$45 at DSW

Buy Now

RELATED CONTENT: