Two Looks, One Day:: Gerber debuted a satin LBD with a boatneck and knee-length hem (reminiscent of her mother Cindy Crawford in the '90s), then switched to a ribbed red Alaïa dress from the Fall 2026 collection—both devoid of excessive accessories.
Anti-Summer Shoe Choice:: Instead of peep-toe pumps or ballet flats, Gerber wore **backless closed-toe mules** by Herbert Levine, signaling a shift toward fall-ready footwear even in the heat of July.
Runway Validation:: Designers like Dior, Loewe, and Stella McCartney all featured backless heel styles on their Spring/Summer 2026 runways, reinforcing the trend's momentum.
Why This Matters:: Gerber's fashion choices highlight a growing preference for **craftsmanship and silhouette over trend-driven embellishment**, offering a roadmap for readers looking to build a timeless capsule wardrobe.
*The Shards*, which begins streaming on Hulu on August 5, is set in early '80s Los Angeles and follows prep-school queen bee Susan Reynolds (played by Gerber) as tensions mount with a killer on the loose. The show's aesthetic leans into razor-sharp blazers, monochrome denim, and padded proportions—yet Gerber has consciously chosen to promote the series in looks that are distinctly '90s in spirit.
This isn't a case of method dressing. Instead, Gerber is letting the clothes speak for themselves: clean lines, rich fabrics, and intentional restraint.
While peep-toe pumps have dominated summer 2026 (spotted on Katie Holmes, Alexa Chung, and Monica Barbaro), Gerber's choice of backless closed-toe mules flips the script. The Herbert Levine "Hidden Ambition" mules she wore feature black suede uppers and sky-high stilettos—a silhouette that mirrors the backless styles seen on the runways of Dior (adorned with 3-D floral appliqués), Loewe (lemon yellow loafer-pumps), and Stella McCartney (strawberry red slides with V-shaped vamps).
The red Alaïa dress from the Fall 2026 collection exemplifies the label's signature sculptural minimalism. Ribbed panels at the hips and cuffs added subtle textural intrigue, while the Miracle Nylon bag by Aupen and simple sunglasses kept the focus on the dress itself. This is a masterclass in "less is more" —letting exceptional design do the heavy lifting.
Gerber's LBD drew immediate comparisons to her mother, Cindy Crawford, whose '90s red-carpet appearances defined the era's approach to understated glamour. By channeling that aesthetic, Gerber bridges two decades of fashion history while making it relevant for today's audiences.
What shoes did Kaia Gerber wear with her LBD?
She wore backless closed-toe mules by Herbert Levine—specifically the "Hidden Ambition" style in black suede with stilettos.
Where can I watch *The Shards*?
The series begins streaming on Hulu on August 5, 2026. You can find more details on Hulu's official site.
Who styled Kaia Gerber for this press tour?
Stylist Emma Jade Morrison curated both looks—the satin LBD and the red Alaïa dress.
What is the backless mule trend?
Backless mules are closed-toe heels without a back strap or counter. They were prominent on Spring/Summer 2026 runways from Dior, Loewe, and Stella McCartney, and are positioned as a sleek alternative to peep-toe pumps for the upcoming fall season.
How can I shop similar backless heels?
Options range from affordable to luxury: Schutz Julie Kitten Heel Mules ($148 at Shopbop), Amina Muaddi Black Anok Mule 105 Heels ($669 at SSENSE), and Gia Borghini X Helsa Boss Mule ($490 at FWRD).
Invest in timeless silhouettes:: A well-tailored LBD or slip dress can transition effortlessly from summer to fall—just swap your footwear.
Experiment with "anti-season" footwear:: Don't be afraid to wear closed-toe heels in warmer months. Backless mules offer breathability while maintaining a polished look.
Let craftsmanship shine:: Minimalist styling works best when the quality of the fabric and construction is front and center.
Who this affects most:: Fashion enthusiasts looking to build a versatile, investment-heavy wardrobe; fans of '90s and minimalist aesthetics; and anyone seeking a sophisticated alternative to fast-fashion trends.
Are you team peep-toe or backless mule this season? Do you think Gerber's anti-method approach will inspire more stars to dress outside their show's era? Share this with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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