This Controversial '90s Footwear Is a Trend Both Millennials and Gen Z Can Support

      If you want evidence that the days of discreet luxury fashion are over, simply observe the current jelly shoe trends. There's nothing more contradictory to subtle luxury than a style that recalls childhood treats, adorned in sweet colors and meant for beach outings. Indeed, from the sun-soaked harbor of Saint-Tropez to the rugged shores of Saint Barthélemy, this warm silhouette has shaken up the dominance of sleek, often monochromatic, minimalist wardrobes preferred by those following the fashion ideologies of icons like Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. (Such looks are likely too Slim-Aarons-meets-Jeff-Koons for her taste.) However, several discerning fashion enthusiasts continue to highlight the lasting appeal of jelly sandals each season, including Zoë Kravitz, Jennifer Lawrence, and the understated style icons, the Olsen Twins. The revival of these shoes can be partially credited to the twins, who debuted a pair of form-fitting lattice designs in September 2023. They have since become a fundamental element in the collections of other luxury brands that aim to present a relaxed, effortless, and carefree approach to fashion. At Chloé, creative director Chemena Kamali has produced several jelly shoes that have gone viral, such as the Cosmopolitan pink heeled flip-flops and charming mules, subsequently dubbed "Cinderella shoes," which debuted on the label's recent spring/summer 2026 runway.

      For Christina Martini, co-founder and creative director of Ancient Greek Sandals, the rise of jelly shoes simply confirms what fashion hedonists have recognized for some time. "Jelly shoes have transitioned from a fleeting trend to a genuine summer essential," she states. "They carry a timeless charm, evoking nostalgia and reminding people of carefree childhood vacations," adds Martini. "Despite their beginnings as a beach must-have, jelly shoes have become a luxury staple due to their combination of simplicity and modernity. They introduce a whimsical splash of color and can instantly revitalize an outfit. It’s this fusion of nostalgic aesthetics and contemporary appeal that has contributed to their longevity." Nonetheless, as the current enthusiasm for hybrid and "quirky" footwear demonstrates, there are truly no limits when it comes to jelly shoes. "Jellies complement various styles as they bring an element of joy and irreverence, making even the most avant-garde designs feel approachable and fun," Martini observes. For instance, a wooden clog inspired by Dutch designs gets a Cycladic twist with the addition of a caramel brown jelly strap, or wedge flip-flops that could have been found in Marissa Cooper's closet from The O.C., worn without a trace of Y2K irony. Truly, this trend is solid. Ahead, explore the six essential jelly shoe trends for 2026 and noteworthy shopping options to enrich your summer wardrobe now and keep for years to come.

      **The 6 Key Jelly Shoe Trends for Summer 2026**

      1. **Jelly Sandals**

       **Style Notes:** The iconic original. After The Row’s Mara sandals made a significant impact a few seasons ago, this style has continued to gain popularity. From the L.A.-based brand Vince’s Barcelona slides to Tory Burch’s Mary Jane-inspired design, this silhouette feels like a natural evolution of the Alaïa mesh flats that have ruled for years.

       **Shop the Trend:**

       This particular jelly shoe was a mainstay in Lana Del Rey's street style during her indie sleaze phase, and I can definitely see it making a comeback.

       **ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS**

       Iro Pvc Ballet Flats

       Since launching this shoe two years ago, Martini mentions that the brand has sold nearly 10,000 pairs.

      2. **Jelly Mules**

       **Style Notes:** Remember those pom-pom adorned princess shoes from preschool? Chloé has just unveiled an adult version—complete with faux ruching and a mock knot—that’s bound to delight our inner child. Just pair it with a tiara from Jennifer Behr, as Teyana Taylor, Lily Allen, and Olivia Rodrigo have done, along with an elegant opera coat and your fanciest dress. All we need is for Jonathan Anderson to craft a magic wand for Dior, which wouldn’t be unusual given his Magician’s Nephew-themed autumn/winter 2026 men’s show.

       **Shop the Trend:**

       Chloé

       Jelly Tpu Mules in Blue

       Chloé

       Jelly Mules in Brown

       This dulce de leche hue will look amazing peeking out from your favorite blue jeans.

       Chloé

       Jelly Mules in Grey

       With both a peep-toe and an elegant finish, who’s to say these shoes aren’t on-trend while being incredibly charming?

      3. **Jelly Fisherman Sandals**

       **Style Notes:** Designers currently seem to be taking popular silhouettes and rendering them in