Jessica Williams Tries Out Sheer Pump Trend on the LACMA Gala 2026 Red Carpet
The actress's chosen pumps featured dainty lace detailing.
Bridal-inspired ensembles seemed to be on the red carpet tonight at the 2026 LACMA Gala in Los Angeles, but Jessica Williams opted for bridal-esque footwear instead.
The “Shrinking” actress’s chosen shoes were white and sheer, on-trend for fall. The style featured sharp capped toes with an opaque lace motif that transitioned into sheer white mesh uppers that stood in contrast. The lace was a delicate accent that drew the eye down. Thin white straps wrapped around Williams’ ankles, threaded through buckle closures that kept the shoes in place. Stiletto heels rounded out the set. The shoe’s sheer paneling created a peekaboo effect that likely also made the footwear more breathable.
Sheer or clear footwear is a style celebrities seem to gravitate towards often, especially on red carpets. Williams’ footwear deviated from the usual PVC construction that has seemingly dominated the red carpet over the past few years. The lace and mesh construction is akin to styles we’ve seen from brands like Jimmy Choo and Gianvito Rossi, often reserved for brides.
On the red carpet, sheer footwear is daring and alluring, often partnered with sensual ensembles that play on creating shape or emphasizing silhouettes. Some celebrities who have participated in the sheer footwear trend this year alone include Dua Lipa, Elsa Hosk and Catherine Zeta-Jones. You can find sheer mesh styles mainly in neutral tones like black, white or brown, but colorful red and pink options have also cropped up over the last few years.
The “Road House” actress paired her sheer shoes with a couture Phan Huy fall 2026 gown in a blue-gray hue. The gown was strapless and featured a fishnet-esque construction and a mesh overlay. Beaded accents in silver could be spotted throughout alongside large pearl adornments. Lace lined the hem of her gown, mirroring the same dainty detailing on her sheer footwear. Williams’ look was styled by Sarah Slutsky, a stylist whom the actress has pulled many times for red carpet events like this one.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s 15th annual Art+Film Gala brought Hollywood and the art world together on Saturday, honoring artist Vija Celmins and “Dune” director Denis Villeneuve. Leonardo DiCaprio and LACMA trustee Eva Chow returned as co-chairs, while Gucci continued its presenting sponsorship, a role it has held since the gala’s 2011 debut. Blackpink’s Rosé was tapped to perform. Proceeds support the museum’s film programming, exhibitions and educational initiatives.
Originally published by wwd.com. Syndicated material does not necessarily reflect the views of Cosmopolitan Canada.
