Denzel Washington’s Wife Pauletta Wears Maison Margiela’s Tabi Shoes to the ‘Gladiator II’ Los Angeles Premiere

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Denzel Washington and his wife Pauletta Washington are continuing their travels on the press tour for “Gladiator II,” Ridley Scott’s long-awaited period film set for release on Nov. 22.

After an appearance in London in which Pauletta rocked mesh polka dot Dior slingback pumps (also worn by the likes of Celine Dion), she continued to show her footwear prowess at the premiere in Los Angeles. To go with an eye-catching animal print coat, she wore a pair of chic split-toe ankle boots.

Pauletta Washington, Denzel Washington at the "Gladiator II" Los Angeles premiere held at the TCL Chinese Theatre on November 18, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.
Pauletta Washington and Denzel Washington at the “Gladiator II” Los Angeles premiere held at the TCL Chinese Theatre on November 18, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

Washington selected a unique ankle boot style to round out her outfit. She wore the Tabi ankle boots, which are crafted with a flatter-than-usual silhouette (at least in front) and stand out with a split that separates the big toe from the other toes, creating an aesthetic reminiscent of an animal hoof. The avant-garde cloven look is strongly associated with Maison Margiela. Crafted from soft nappa leather, Pauletta’s ankle boots feature a 8cm cylindrical heel and the Tabi split-toe shape. The boots retail for $1,420.

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The brand’s Tabi collection applies the split-toe to a myriad of silhouettes, from loafers to boots to ballerina flats. Anya Taylor-Joy is a devotee of the style, having worn loafers by the designer on multiple occasions. The Tabi design launched with the Maison’s debut collection in 1989, and was inspired by the traditional 15th century Japanese sock by the same name.

A closer look at Pauletta Washington's shoes.
A closer look at Pauletta Washington’s shoes.

Washington’s long jacket exuded the energy of a snow leopard with its black and white print. The garment was double-breasted and featured a wide notch lapel. She accessorized with a pair of dangling jewel earrings and further embraced the jungle aesthetic with a reptile embossed purse from Chanel. Denzel kept things minimalist in a classic navy blazer and sneakers, his go-to shoe choice for premieres lately.

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 13: Pauletta Washington and Denzel Washington attend the Royal Film Performance and Global Premiere of "Gladiator II" in Leicester Square on November 13, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/WireImage)
Pauletta Washington and Denzel Washington attend the Royal Film Performance and Global Premiere of “Gladiator II” in Leicester Square on November 13, 2024 in London, England.

Pauletta and Denzel have been gracing red carpets together for several decades. Take a look at their style through the years below.

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