When Rihanna stepped onto the stage at Jay-Z's "Extra Innings" concert last Sunday at Yankee Stadium, she did more than just perform. She ended a three-year live performance drought, and did it in a pair of sky-high Saint Laurent Vendôme slingback pumps. The pointed-toe heels, glazed in leather, were a signature move for a star who has never played it safe with her footwear.
Since her Super Bowl halftime show and Academy Awards performance in 2023, fans have been waiting for new music from the Fenty Beauty mogul. That night, she joined Jay-Z for their hit "Run This Town," and her shoes reminded everyone why her onstage style is so memorable. While other performers stick to practical dance sneakers, Rihanna has always reached for towering designer heels, thigh-high boots, and even custom sneakers. From green velvet Manolo Blahnik Decebalo pumps at the 2016 Global Citizen Festival to Versace thigh-high boots with a gold heel at the 2015 iHeartRadio Music Awards, she never holds back.
One of her most talked-about moments came at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards, where she wore black Vetements x Manolo Blahnik boots with a fold-over cuff and light pink lining. During her "Anti" world tour, she stunned in custom Giuseppe Zanotti canvas chap-boots in lime green and beige. Whether she's in strappy heels or slouchy boots, Rihanna keeps fans guessing - and watching - every time she steps into the spotlight.
Originally reported by WWD