Zendaya takes bold fashion risk with "ugly" shoes, but did it pay off?

Los Angeles, California - Zendaya certainly isn't afraid to take risks when it comes to fashion, and her latest look is no exception!

Zendaya rocked a pair of Tabi ballet flats in a recent Instagram story.
Zendaya rocked a pair of Tabi ballet flats in a recent Instagram story.  © Collage: IMAGO / ABACAPRESS & Screenshot/Instagram/zendaya

The 26-year-old showed off her rather unique choice of shoes on her Instagram story on Thursday.

In the snap, Zendaya paired wide-leg blue pants with the "controversial" footwear - white leather Tabi ballet slippers.

This style, which originated in Japan, includes a division at the top separating the big toe from the rest.

Cavinder twins spill photoshoot secrets in viral "Day in the Life" video
Cavinder twins Cavinder twins spill photoshoot secrets in viral "Day in the Life" video

Per Glamour, the pair that the Euphoria star wore in the photo is Maison Margiela's Tabi Ballet Flats, which run for $690.

Though the unique look isn't beloved by everyone, it seems Zendaya's example may be enough to kick-start a real trend.

Zendaya opts for unique footwear in latest Instagram story

"that's it, I'm buying a tabi flat that I've been eyeing for a while. zendaya did that," one fan said.

The Tabi style is typically featured in boots, but the Marvel actor's interpretation taps into the current popularity of ballet flats at the moment.

Also on Wednesday, the Challengers star reflected on an iconic fashion moment of hers at the Venice Film Festival in 2021, where she rocked a nude leather Balmain gown.

Cover photo: Collage: IMAGO / ABACAPRESS & Screenshot/Instagram/zendaya

More on Zendaya: