This "Outdated" Shoe Trend Has Made a Significant Return This Summer—5 Stylish Ways It's Being Worn by It Girls Today.

      I recall when the beloved wedge trend came to an end. It was 2019, and we had just emerged from a summer filled with these shoes. Castañer's iconic espadrille style was worn by every bridesmaid and wedding attendee, while cork-soled variants became the ideal choice for pairing with playful floral wrap dresses and wide-leg jeans. As is the case with many trends that become overexposed, we grew tired of wedges, and they quickly fell out of favor, receiving an "uncool" label. In 2023, Khaite and Balenciaga attempted to reinvent the look with sculptural, patent, and pointed designs, followed by Chloé's wedge-wearing front row that went viral in 2024, but neither revival had lasting impact. This time, the situation is different. The secret to a successful comeback is providing variety and versatility, and that's precisely what wedges are offering this summer. From elegant wedge mules for evening outings to casual platform wedge flip-flops, there’s a pair to suit every style and occasion. If you're curious about how to style them, I've prepared a selection of five great outfits demonstrating how seamlessly they can fit into your summer wardrobe. Read on to learn more.

      **5 Ways to Style Wedges in Summer 2026**

      1. **Wedge Thong Sandals + Tank Top + Capri Trousers**

      **Style Notes:** This style has made a comeback, influenced by another summer footwear trend: the elevated flip-flop. Plush, platformed, and reminiscent of the '90s, they're the perfect complement for capri pants. Maintain a subtle look with solid colors or embrace the '90s aesthetic with an embellished pair.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - **Monki** Slim Strap Tank Top

       Don't overlook grey for your basics collection.

      - **Free People** Hot Mesh Pants

       A casual interpretation of the capri silhouette.

      - **ZARA** Contrast Platform Sandals

      - **Balenciaga** Lambskin Le City Shoulder Bag

      2. **Wedge Thong Sandals + Halterneck Top + Sarouel Trousers**

      **Style Notes:** A sleek pair of thong wedge sandals contrasts nicely with the volume of sarouel trousers while adding subtle height. Keep the rest of the outfit sleek and minimal but experiment with textures.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - **Stradivarius** Racer Neck Top

       Every wardrobe should include a halterneck top.

      - **Free People** Maggie Everyday Asymmetrical Knit Poncho

      - **Alaïa** Tong 75 Suede Wedge Sandals

       A worthy investment, in my view.

      - Woven bags remain in style.

      3. **Wedge Mules + Printed Minidress + Mini Bag**

      **Style Notes:** Leopard-print heels are essential in any maximalist's wardrobe, and a wedge design adds another layer of interest. If you enjoy mixing prints, a scarf print pairs well with leopard. Just be sure to keep accessories minimal to avoid overpowering the look.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - **Rixo** Clove Chiffon Mini Dress

       An ideal piece for print clashing.

      - **Anonymous Copenhagen** Gwen 75 Wedge Satin Print Leopard

       A perfect addition to a little black dress.

      - **RABANNE** 1969 Nano Chainmail Shoulder Bag

      - **& Other Stories** Large Hoop Earrings

       A simple way to make a statement.

      4. **Slip Dress + Suede Wedge Sandals + Canvas Bag**

      **Style Notes:** Grunge checks are another '90s trend currently making a comeback, and they pair well with wedges. The slip dress can be tricky to style with shoes, especially if you want to avoid a traditionally "feminine" look, but a check print allows for a bold shoe choice—go for it!

      **Shop the Look:**

      - **Nobody's Child** Check Motsi Midi Dress

       Swap wedges for boots for a transitional style.

      - **TONY BIANCO** Edgy Suede Heeled Wedges

       This is how to incorporate suede in summer.

      - **COS** Leather Cat-Eye Sunglasses

       Yes, leather sunglasses are trendy, and they're cooler than you'd think.

      5. **Polo Shirt + Lace-Hem Skirt + Wedge Pumps**

      **Style Notes:** I've never been particularly fond of classic black pumps, but these catch my eye. The rounded toe gives a vintage vibe, while the curved wedge heel adds a subtle edge that instantly elevates the look. This entire outfit is a blend of contrasts, from the green and pink color blocking to the pairing of the polo shirt with a lace-hem skirt, with the wedge pump unifying the elements.

      **Shop the Look:**