Jennifer Hudson Adds Some Sparkle to Her Menswear-Inspired Look With Crystal-Embellished Pumps at Elle’s Women in Hollywood Event

Michael Buckner for Variety

Jennifer Hudson attended the annual Elle Women in Hollywood celebration in Los Angeles last night, where she popped against the black carpet in a sharp, contrasting white suit.

The “Respect” actress, who was honored at the event and spoke about playing Aretha Franklin during her acceptance speech, paired pointy black satin pumps by Tamara Mellon with the striking Ralph Lauren look.

The sultry “Room Key” ankle-strap heels featuring straps trimmed with sparkling stud embellishments effortlessly added some shine to her menswear-inspired ensemble for the evening. Sporting a sleek short hairstyle and a red lip, the 40-year-old Chicago native pulled things together with some glittering jewels from Pomellato.

When Hudson, who turned into the late Queen of Soul in the biopic “Respect,” hit the stage last night, she talked of the challenge it was to embody Franklin. “How am I supposed to play this role when I am very outspoken? When I walk into a room, you’re gonna hear me. I’m gonna say what I’m gonna say,” she said to the room.

“Because women back during that time, that era, couldn’t even say what they thought or how they felt,” she continued. “But to look at us today, to see each and every one of us hold our space? We’re on the right track.”

“The thing that got me through filming was Miss Franklin’s encouragement and her faith that she had in women, and that’s what we’re supposed to do for each other as women — encourage each other. And that’s not an easy task to take on.”

See more celebrities on the red carpet for Elle’s Women in Hollywood event.