Ariana Grande Channels Audrey Hepburn in Custom Loewe at NBR Gala
In a moment that felt plucked from the golden age of Hollywood, Ariana Grande graced the National Board of Review Gala at Cipriani with an ensemble that whispered “modern Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” As your resident footwear aficionado, darlings, let me tell you – this wasn’t just an appearance; it was a fashion proclamation.
The “Wicked” star floated into the January 7th New York soirée wearing a custom Loewe creation that had every fashion editor reaching for their phones. The pastel pink satin gown, with its whisper-thin spaghetti straps and devastatingly elegant square neckline, proved once again why Jonathan Anderson is the master of minimalist sophistication. The almost-backless design, secured by a delicate strap that seemed to dance across Grande’s back, was the kind of architectural detail that makes us fashion insiders weak at the knees.
But let’s talk about those shoes, shall we? As someone who has witnessed every major footwear moment of the past decade, I can confidently say that Grande’s choice of Loewe’s Toy leather stiletto pumps in pristine white was nothing short of genius. The modern square toe and that architectural drop heel (a precise 3.5 inches, if you’re wondering) peeking through the gown’s strategic back slit was chef’s kiss. At $1,100, these architectural masterpieces are available in black and metallic silver, but the white? Pure heaven.
Grande’s accessories game was equally on point – the Beaded Leather Mini Squeeze Bag by Loewe completed the monochromatic designer moment, while a statement diamond necklace added just the right amount of sparkle to her décolletage. The look was finished with her signature ponytail and bangs, though reimagined with a distinctly Hepburn-esque twist that had Entertainment Tonight drawing the obvious (and correct) parallel to the iconic actress.
For those following Grande’s style evolution as closely as I have, this Loewe moment feels particularly significant. While she’s been loyal to her Jimmy Choos, custom Gianvito Rossis, and beloved Louboutins (usually in her preferred palette of pastels and whites), this choice shows her growing confidence in more avant-garde footwear selections. It’s worth noting that this isn’t her first rodeo with Loewe – remember that breathtaking custom gown from the 2024 Met Gala? The one with the mother-of-pearl bodice and those mesmerizing floral eye decorations? Jonathan Anderson clearly understands the Grande aesthetic.
