Wedges are officially making their comeback in 2025.
The chunky heel might feel like a throwback but they happen to be very handy for when you need a height of a heel but the comfort of a flat sandal (who really has the energy to be teetering around in a sky-high heel in 2025?).
Take it from the Princess of Wales. Castañer summer wedges reign supreme as the princess’s summer shoe of choice – and they have done so ever since she was first spotted in a pair back in 2019. The family-run brand has been reinventing the espadrille since 1927; in the late 60s, they gained prominence after creating the first ankle tie-clad wedge for Yves Saint Laurent. Wedge sandals are certainly a winner, whether you’re off to a friend’s wedding or for brunch in the sun.
BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 02: Victoria Scheu is seen wearing white skirt Zara, elephant bag Loewe, white heels, leopard print top on May 02, 2024 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Christian Vierig/Getty Images)Christian Vierig/Getty Images
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 09: A guest wears khaki futurist sunglasses, a pale blue high neck zipper sport jacket, matching pale blue nylon sport shorts, a burgundy matte leather handbag, gold rings, gold shiny varnished leather strappy heels mules sandals , outside Stine Goya, during the Copenhagen Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2024 on August 09, 2023 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
But 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.
Most recently, the luxury designer bringing the shoe back is beloved Boho brand Chloé, whose entire front row at the autumn/winter 2024 show wore their sky-high interpretation of the style.
So how should you style wedges in 2025?
Style your chunky shoes with a summer dress or playsuit for an easy weekday outfit or for something more formal, with a silky midi skirt or a sequin dress.
1. Which trousers go with wedges?
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.
2. Which dresses and skirts go well with wedges?
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.
3. How to wear wedges as formal shoes?
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, we recommend wearing a shoe with a closed toe.
A version of this story originally appeared on GLAMOUR Germany.
Shop our edit of the best wedges to try in 2025 below:
