Issa Rae Puts a Metallic Twist on the Strappy Sandal Trend at Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival

Issa Rae gave the strappy sandal trend a metallic update on Saturday at the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival, arriving in Stuart Weitzman’s Georgie 100 heels in liquid metallic leather.

The gold leather straps traced a clean line across the toes and midfoot, each one fastened with a small, angular buckle. Another set crisscrossed over the instep before circling the ankle, which Rae wore twisted to the front — a subtle switch from the standard placement that changed the entire balance of the look.

Her dress picked up the same play of structure and movement. Cut in a bright green knit, it framed the shoulders with a square neckline and broke into open crochet through the bodice and skirt. A fringe hem hit just above the knee. She kept accessories to a minimum — a fine chain at the neck, a simple ring — and wore her hair in a long, sleek braid.

The Georgie 100 offers what Stuart Weitzman describes as an “elegant-meets-edgy” take on the classic strappy sandal, combining refined proportions with hardware detailing. Its adjustable wraparound ankle strap and adjustable vamp strap are designed for a custom fit, with the sculptural heel adding height without sacrificing stability.

For Rae, the choice extended her run in Stuart Weitzman — a partnership that began in August 2024 when she was named one of the brand’s global ambassadors alongside Lucy Liu, Aly Raisman, Christy Turlington and Ming Xi. That campaign, “How Lovely to Be a Woman,” marked her first global fashion campaign and spotlighted her as “The Modern Mogul” for her work across entertainment, business and community advocacy.

Since then, Rae has worn the brand’s footwear for high-profile appearances, including the same metalllic gold Georgie 100 heels at the SXSW Film Festival in March with a Christopher John Rogers Wiggle Dot Jacquard Midi Tank Dress.

Metallic sandals remain a seasonal constant, with designers this year focusing on slimmer, hardware-accented straps and adjustable fits. Gold in particular has been prominent on red carpets and summer events, pairing easily with brights, neutrals and jewel tones. Rae’s take, with the straps crossed at the front, offered a subtle variation on a proven silhouette.

Now in its 23rd year, the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival drew filmmakers, actors and industry figures to celebrate Black cinema.