Carrie Underwood dazzled at the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala held on Thursday in New York City. The country music icon was a vision on the red carpet, donning a sparkling high-low dress that featured a silver metallic bodice and a ruffled, embroidered bottom. Her ensemble was completed with layered necklaces, bracelets, and silver platform heels, making her one of the standout stars of the evening.
The event took place at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel, where Underwood’s glamorous look was further accentuated by her makeup. She opted for a smoky eye with a hint of metallic sparkle near her tear ducts, a shiny neutral-toned gloss on her lips, and glowing blush paired with luminous skin. Her long blonde hair was styled in loose curls, cascading over her shoulders with a sharp middle parting.
Underwood was among several notable attendees, including Keith Urban and Kevin Bacon, who gathered to celebrate the songwriters behind some of the music industry’s most iconic hits. “The music industry does not exist without songwriters delivering great songs first,” said Songwriters Hall of Fame chairman Nile Rodgers in a press release before the gala. “Without them, there is no recorded music, no concert business, no merch… nothing. It all starts with the song and the songwriter.”
Among the honorees was SZA, who received the Hal David Starlight Award for her impact on the music industry through original songwriting. Other stylish guests included Diane Warwick, Priscilla Presley, and El DeBarge, adding to the star-studded atmosphere of the evening.
Underwood’s dress, designed by Rafik Zaki, was a masterpiece of texture and dimension. The corset bodice, crafted from a reflective silver textile, featured a three-dimensional sculpted design, a strapless neckline, and an asymmetrical hemline. The coordinating skirt, made from an equally glossy woven silver fabric, used a high-low silhouette to create texture and dimension around the waistline.
Rafik Zaki’s collection includes other two-piece gowns with similar sculptural bodices and voluminous skirts. The brand’s Alyssa and Tanya dresses feature corset-like construction on top, complete with a strapless neckline and pointed hemline, and draped skirting on the bottom, with brightly colored taffeta ruched and gathered around the waistline.
During the show, Underwood honored singer and songwriter Hillary Lindsey with a dedicated performance of her hit song, “Jesus, Take the Wheel.” The Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala 2024 celebrated the achievements of influential songwriters and their contributions to the music industry. This year’s inductees included Diane Warren, SZA, Steely Dan, R.E.M., and Hillary Lindsey.
Underwood’s footwear for the evening was equally eye-catching. She wore metallic silver platform sandals with a thin strappy construction, high-shine metallic uppers, open toes, and slightly elevated platform soles. The 4 to 5-inch stiletto heels provided a substantial boost, complementing her striking gown.
Platform sandals are a beloved footwear silhouette, known for their height-boosting abilities and elongated appearance. Celebrities like Sofia Vergara, Jessica Simpson, Florence Pugh, and Dua Lipa have made platform sandal heels a staple in their wardrobes. These sought-after shoes can be purchased from both affordable and high-end brands like Staud, Steve Madden, Sam Edelman, Versace, and Prada.
Underwood’s red carpet looks often include glamorous and bold shoes featuring studs, metallic tones, and crystals. She frequently opts for platform sandals and pumps by top brands like Jimmy Choo, Agnes Bethel, and Giuseppe Zanotti. However, when off-duty, she prefers comfy sneakers and ankle boots by Christian Louboutin, DKNY, and R13.
During the gala, Underwood’s performance was a highlight, showcasing her vocal prowess and paying tribute to the songwriters who have shaped her career. The Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala 2024 was a night to remember, celebrating the artistry and creativity of the music industry’s most influential songwriters.
