Once upon a time, you couldn’t throw a rock outside the Polo Bar without hitting a celebrity wearing wedges. While the golden era of wedges has come and gone, these comfortable and versatile shoes are back with a vengeance, like all things low-rise and boho. While wedges have shape-shifted throughout the years, the rules for how to wear wedges have more or less stayed the same, as the 10 stunning street style outfits ahead prove.
In our humble opinion, the only unbreakable wedge-wearing rule is that you shouldn’t wear a pair you don’t feel comfortable walking in. Wedges come in so many walkable styles — from strappy sandals to chunky block and sleek wedge pumps — that there’s no reason to wear a pair that makes your feet ache. Luckily, each of the trendy and timeless looks ahead features wedges that deliver style and comfort in equal measure. Just add a touch of your signature aesthetic and strike an #OOTD pose.
Add a Pop of Color
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If you want to spice up a casual jeans outfit, look no further than a pair of wedges in a vivid summery shade. A bright pop of color and a platform or block heel add enough big fashion energy to elevate even the most basic blue jeans and white tee ensemble. Finish off the look with an oversized blazer and matching purse.
Sharpen A Slouchy Suit
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No one wants to swelter in a close-fitting suit in summer, which makes slouchy business casual separates in lightweight fabrics ideal for rising temperatures. Pair a boxy blazer and relaxed-fit trousers with wedge sandals to give them a touch of structure.
Lean into Mixed Prints
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There’s a beautiful cohesion to be found in a mixed print outfit that extends beyond the ankle. High-contrast wedge sandals that combine fabrics and finishes are the perfect cherry on top of an outfit that plays with patterns and embellishments.
Opt for Sharp Angles
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The word “wedge” might conjure up images of gently sloping sandals in cork or raffia, but these shoes can be just as sharp as a pair of stilettos. Unlike sunny espadrilles, pump-like close-toed wedges are all vampy vibes. Wear them with a midi skirt and tank for a sleek look that tiptoes on the line between sophisticated and edgy.
Take a Sundress to New Heights
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Thanks to their solidity and soles that evenly distribute weight across the foot, wedges are easier to walk in than other high-heel shoe styles, even at great heights. We recommend capitalizing on this comfort as often as possible. We especially love the look of a midi or maxi sundress worn with sky-high woven platform wedges.
Try Sporty Sandals
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Wedges’ versatility extends into the realm of chunky, athletic sandals, and classic pumps. We wouldn’t recommend going for a hike in sporty wedge sandals, but wearing them with an A-line mini dress and going for a walk in the park? That’s an outdoor excursion these shoes can handle.
Embrace Vintage Vibes
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Warm weather calls for cottagecore, vintage frocks, and Bridgerton-inspired dresses, all of which can be tricky to accessorize for a 21st-century look. Happily, woven wedges or classic espadrilles with ribbon ties match energy with the most Victorian girlie ensemble without veering into costume territory.
Go for Bold Jellies
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If your style tends more towards the eclectic or experimental, you might not be tempted by classic wooden, woven, or cork wedges. Luckily, there are plenty of rubber sole and jelly wedge options available. These styles have a starkly futuristic, street-style vibe that works well with satin or silk separates. Want even more impact? Try a sleek, metallic pair.
Style with Socks
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Unlike pumps or slingbacks, wedges don’t take themselves too seriously—their eclectic energy pairs well with cheeky accessorizing, including colorful tights and frilled or patterned socks. If you plan to style wedges with socks, we recommend choosing a pair in suede or leather to create a rich visual contrast.
Brighten Up Basics
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We love simple separates as much as the next minimalist fashion girlie, but there are times when we want to give our go-to wardrobe essentials a bit of boost. A pair of rosette or bow-adorned wedges adds a touch of eccentricity when worn with a sleek, minimal look without feeling over the top.