Breaking Fashion Boundaries: Kerry Washington’s Luminous Narrative of Style and History
In the heart of a moody New York evening, Kerry Washington transcended mere celebrity appearance, transforming an iconic architectural landmark into a canvas of cultural commemoration and sartorial brilliance. Her December 16th appearance at the Empire State Building was more than a promotional event—it was a masterclass in storytelling through fashion, honoring the remarkable Women’s Army Corps unit of color who served during World War II.
Washington’s ensemble was a carefully orchestrated symphony of design and intention. The centerpiece? An exquisite Emilia Wickstead Malinda gown, a London luxury creation priced at $2,425, that epitomized architectural elegance. The dark red dress, crafted from double cloque fabric, showcased sculpted darting along the bodice—a testament to the brand’s commitment to precision tailoring. Its high neckline, short sleeves, and sweeping A-line silhouette whispered of timeless sophistication, proving that true style transcends temporal trends.
Layering sophistication upon sophistication, Washington complemented her gown with a coat in a marginally deeper maroon, creating a monochromatic narrative that spoke volumes about intentional styling. This wasn’t just an outfit; it was a statement—a sartorial dialogue about depth, nuance, and historical reverence.
Her footwear selection was equally deliberate. The Aquazzura So High 140mm pumps—those sleek black platform heels—were a masterwork of design. With a satiny sheen and a rounded almond toe, these shoes featured an architectural block heel that cut away dramatically at the sides, secured by a slender ankle strap. Though often partially concealed by her sweeping gown, the shoes were a subtle yet powerful punctuation mark to her ensemble.
For context, Washington’s relationship with Emilia Wickstead is not new. In 2023, she previously graced “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” in a vibrant checkered dress from the brand, paired elegantly with Christian Louboutin pumps—further cementing her reputation as a style chameleon who understands the language of haute couture.
The evening’s chromatic palette—army green, blue, white, and red—mirrored the colors illuminating the Empire State Building, creating a visual metaphor for the historical narrative of “The Six Triple Eight.” Washington, Tyler Perry, and Ebony Obsidian weren’t just promoting a film; they were illuminating a forgotten chapter of American history.
Her styling that evening was a nuanced performance—each element carefully chosen to honor, represent, and celebrate. The black tights, the platform heels, the layered burgundy tones—all contributed to a narrative far larger than fashion, speaking to representation, resilience, and recognition.
A Saint Laurent alternative with a peep-toe design, retailing at $1,150 from Saks Fifth Avenue, might offer a similar aesthetic, but Washington’s choice was about more than just shoes—it was about making a statement.
