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Along with a handful of other '90s footwear favourites, wedges are officially making their comeback in 2026.
Their renaissance started back in 2024, on the Chloé AW24 runway to be precise, when several front row-goers stepped out in the same chunky wedge sandals. Since then, while the platform iterations are still an obvious choice, skinnier designs have been making even more of an appearance.
I've spotted them on the Celine, Maison Margiela and BOSS catwalks, as well as on several street style stars at Fashion Week earlier this year, so if you're looking to add a wedge to your sandal rotations this summer (without looking too retro), angular seems to be the way to go.
Yep; if the jute-soled summer wedge isn't your cuppa, there are a whole bunch of summer wedges in different styles which prove the controversial style has come a long way since the early 2000s. Think: sleek slides, minimalist mules, chunky platforms and styles with a touch of cork.
Given that the shoe was first popularised in the mid-'90s (remember the "Bekett" trainers by Isabel Marant, a high-top sneaker made of suede with a hidden wedge heel that was absolutely everywhere?) it's unsurprising that the style has found a new cult following amongst Gen Z-ers today with the revival of all things Noughties.
So how should you style wedges in 2026?
With a summer dress or jeans for an easy weekday outfit, or for something more formal, with a silky midi skirt or a mini dress.
As a general rule of thumb, you want trousers that have longer, wider hems for that elongating look. Tip: Pay attention to the material of the trousers. Wooden-look clog wedges, for example, go well with flowing natural fabrics such as linen or cotton. Urban trainer-wedges, on the other hand, go well with bleached, dark jeans.
It's important that the shoes match the vibe of the outfit. Clog wedges round off casual boho dresses, sandals go well with maxi sundresses, while knee-high wedge boots look fantastic with miniskirts and dresses.
Wedges are a good alternative for anyone who feels uncomfortable in classic heels. They offer more stability thanks to their larger foot area. While they are suitable for formal but summery occasions, for all other dress codes, however, I recommend wearing a shoe with a closed toe.
Shop the best wedges to try in 2026 below:
Save when you shop for wedges with these Free People discount codes at checkout.
Save when you shop for wedges with these Dune discount codes at checkout.
Save when you shop for wedges with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
Save when you shop for wedges with these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
Want to shop more 90s shoes? Try kitten heels or flip flops, or combine the two for the ultimate nod.
A version of this story originally appeared on GLAMOUR Germany.
