I Didn’t Think It Was Possible—Dakota Made Closed-Toe Wedges Look So Chic

There’s something about the full-coverage design of a closed-toe wedge that never quite sat right with me. With so much material enveloping the foot, then extending into a solid, weighty base, I often found the style more clunky than considered—a distracting element that disrupted, rather than elevated, an outfit. But I’ll admit, my stance has softened since spotting Dakota Johnson out this week, styling a pair of closed-toe wedges that, much to my surprise, I can only describe as genuinely chic.

Wearing the Colt Leather Mules (£880) from New York label Khaite, Johnson chose a jet-black pair crafted in glossy leather. The sleek design featured a backless wedge that curved elegantly into a soft square toe, with a low vamp that revealed just enough of the foot to feel fresh. The open heel brought a welcome lightness to the look, balancing out the typically heavy silhouette of a closed-toe wedge.

Sticking to a sharp, all-black palette, Johnson started with a deep V-neck top in inky black; she layered a long-line leather jacket over the top, finishing with a tonal pair of flared black jeans. The high-shine wedges grounded the look, adding height and polish without veering into overstatement.