# Chanel barefoot heel sandal controversy

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/chanel-barefoot-heel-sandal-controversy
> Updated: 2026-08-25T10:19:07.000Z. Sources: 52. Developments: 3.

Chanel has introduced a controversial footwear design known as the ‘barefoot heel cap’ as part of its Cruise 2026/27 collection. Created by creative director Matthieu Blazy, the design features a heel and ankle straps but lacks a traditional sole, leaving the foot exposed. Blazy described the piece as being “between a shoe and jewelry,” inspired by the maritime setting of Biarritz, France, to evoke the image of a woman emerging from the sea.

The design gained significant public attention after actress and Chanel ambassador Margaret Qualley wore the sandals at the London premiere of the film ‘The Dog Stars’ on August 20. Qualley paired the minimalist, or ‘naked shoes,’ with a black Chanel dress featuring long fringes and a deep V-neckline. 

Following the red carpet appearance, the sandals have gone viral on social media, prompting a mix of admiration from experimental fashion enthusiasts and parody from internet users. The footwear continues to spark debate; while some appreciate the aesthetic as a bold artistic statement, others have questioned the practicality and value of the item, which is priced at approximately $3,000 (£2,200).

## Claims

- Margaret Qualley attended the world premiere of The Dog Stars at Odeon Leicester Square in London. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Qualley wore Chanel barefoot sandals from the brand’s 2027 cruise collection. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Qualley was joined by co-star Jacob Elordi at the premiere. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Margaret Qualley appeared at the event without her wedding ring. (single source)
- The Dog Stars is a sci-fi film based on a book by Peter Heller. (single source)
- Matthieu Blazy is the creative director of Chanel. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-25: Margaret Qualley wears controversial Chanel sandals at film premiere

Margaret Qualley sparked social media debate after wearing Chanel’s controversial, sole-less barefoot sandals to the London premiere of ‘The Dog Stars’.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/margaret-qualley-wears-controversial-chanel-sandals-at-film-premiere

### 2026-08-22: Chanel debuts controversial ‘barefoot’ heel sandals

Chanel's new ‘barefoot heel cap’ sandals, designed by Matthieu Blazy, have drawn attention and scrutiny after being worn by Margaret Qualley at a London film premiere.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chanel-debuts-controversial-barefoot-heel-sandals

### 2026-08-20: Margaret Qualley wears controversial Chanel barefoot sandals in London

Margaret Qualley sparked fashion debate at ‘The Dog Stars’ London premiere by wearing Chanel’s controversial ‘barefoot sandals’ that lack a traditional sole, creating a barefoot illusion.

38 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/margaret-qualley-attends-the-dog-stars-premiere-in-london

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Cite as: Chanel barefoot heel sandal controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/chanel-barefoot-heel-sandal-controversy