Heidi Klum isn’t afraid to break a few rules when it comes to fashion. For a Sept. 12 taping of “America’s Got Talent,” Klum arrived wearing the viral Jean Paul Gaultier illusion bikini dress. Rather than style the sheer outfit with strappy sandals or colorful stilettos, however, the model boldly paired the $600 dress with a casual pair of flip-flops. Letting the gown speak for itself, Klum kept her accessories simple, opting for a pair of black sunglasses and a matching shoulder bag.
Upon closer inspection, the model’s casual shoes were also designer: Klum’s Christian Louboutin flip-flops featured red soles and black tops, just like the iconic pumps the brand is known for. Taking the accessory a step further, the shoes also featured black rhinestone embellishments along the foot straps. Paired with her runway-ready look, Klum’s shoes were anything but casual after all.
Still, she may be the first celebrity to style the dress with beach-friendly footwear, a surprising realization considering the design boasts a printed bikini across the front and back. The gown’s elongated circular pattern is meant to create the illusion of a heat signature illuminating a body in a bikini.
The mock-neck design and long sleeves, however, allow the maxi dress to double as a cover-up, which is exactly how Klum styled the piece. Beneath the see-through fabric, the model wore a black bra and a white leopard-print thong that was clearly visible beneath the silhouette of her faux bikini. Layered on top of one another, the garments created a mesmerizing look that has us hoping for a few more beach days before fall.
Last month, Klum was spotted wearing a plunging party dress for a girls’ night out with her fellow “AGT” judge Sofía Vergara. Once again demonstrating her love for animal prints, Klum wore a leopard-print dress with a cleavage-baring neckline and a pair of printed Louboutin pumps. Meanwhile, Vergara strutted alongside Klum in a strapless green midi dress and a strappy pair of Louboutin sandals.
Ahead, see Klum’s captivating Jean Paul Gaultier dress from all angles.