It has been 14 years since the launch of the most polarizing shoe style in the world—now, they are returning for…

      Nestled in a serene village surrounded by golden poplar trees and mountain scenery in New Zealand’s South Island, you wouldn't expect to discover one of the century's most divisive trends—the Isabel Marant wedge trainers (officially called Bekett sneakers). However, it was at a small vintage store just outside Queenstown that I stumbled upon a pair sought after by Vinted enthusiasts and Made In Chelsea fans at a price too good to resist. Like a bird drawn to shiny objects, I was drawn to these controversial shoes, determined to make them part of my wardrobe, despite their clear mismatch with my personal style. After some deliberation and trying them on, reality struck. This isn't 2011 anymore. The trendsetters no longer sport them alongside faux fur vests and leather leggings for strolls down King’s Road. It could have been tempting to spend part of my paycheck for the rush of nostalgia, but I realized that the irony and sentiment of this purchase would be short-lived. Thus, I walked away empty-handed, left with only a regrettable mirror selfie contemplating whether buying them "for the plot" was a sensible decision, along with the memory of my visit.

      What Are the Isabel Marant Wedge Trainers?For those unfamiliar, or perhaps too young to have experienced their initial popularity, the Isabel Marant wedge trainers are a unique footwear design that blends sneaker and heel elements (the original hybrid, if you will). Featuring a hidden three-inch heel, this trendy trainer boasts a chunky high-top silhouette, suede cut-outs on the sides, three velcro straps, and a puffy tongue that protrudes around the ankle. The Bekett style was first introduced in 2011 and played a key role in establishing the tomboy bohemian brand as an international favorite. (Marant has since launched other versions of the wedge trainers, including the Bobby soon after and the Balskee in 2021, with the latter being promoted through an eye-catching ad campaign featuring South Sudanese-Australian model, Adut Akech.) When they debuted, Isabel Marant’s design stirred up fashion debates for being radically opposed to traditional industry standards, which prioritize aesthetics and beauty. Yet, as even Marant described it as “super vulgar” in a 2014 interview with The Cut, it became an object of desire. How did these shoes end up on the feet of the most prominent fashion figures of the decade, including off-duty supermodels like Alessandra Ambrosio and musical stars like Beyoncé? (The Grammy-winning artist even sported them in her "Love On Top" music video.)

      When Did the Isabel Marant Wedge Trainers Become Popular?Celebrity endorsements significantly boosted both the popularity and controversy surrounding the shoes. Consequently, the continuous critiques, think pieces about their success, and celebrity sightings in street style solidified their status as one of the most coveted styles of the decade. Paired with a slouchy Balenciaga Motorcycle bag, a leather jacket, and spray-on trousers, the Isabel Marant wedge trainers became a staple for an entire generation of fashion devotees. Rebecca Rhys-Evans, acting deputy editor at Who What Wear UK, recalls the rise (and fall) of this trend from firsthand experience. “During the 2010s, when I was in my late teens and early twenties, it was the height of the India Sleaze era,” she shares. “They were never grungy enough for my (admittedly limited) taste!” she adds, explaining that, despite their current reputation for excess, they weren't as fringe or alternative as one might assume back then.

      "There was a time when the Marant Beckett would have been my least favorite item in fashion history. But with the Y2K revival, I've grown fond of many relics from that era I once disliked (Juicy Couture tracksuits, capris, and cargo pants… hello!), revealing a hidden desire for these wedge shoes that once repulsed me." Even within the Who What Wear UK office, the shoes are a contentious topic. Some remain fervently against their existence, while others reflect more deeply, appreciating them for how they embody the "millennial cringe" associated with their time. As someone who only caught the tail end of this trend at 26, I believe the wedge trainers add an unexpected twist to any ensemble. While they may have originally been worn for genuine reasons, their modern appearances are infused with irony. The act of bringing them back with a tongue-in-cheek attitude has made them even more desirable. I’m not wearing them straightforwardly, but rather in a way that channels Kim Kardashian circa 2012, playful with my "Isabel Marant swag today" vibe.

      Are Isabel Marant Wedge Trainers Still in Style?The crucial question remains: “Are Isabel Marant wedge trainers still fashionable?” If you were to ask the designer, she would likely affirm with a confident yes, particularly since she issued a re-release of