If this summer’s shoe trends have anything in common, it’s that all our favorite styles were born in the ’90s. There’s the sleek strappy sandal beloved by the likes of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Kate Moss, as well as the flip-flop kitten heel—a runway mainstay at iconic labels of the era, including Calvin Klein, Helmut Lang, and Michael Kors—and sported by today’s It girls, including Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Zoë Kravitz, and more.
The nostalgia doesn’t stop there. Summer wedges—a hallmark of late-’90s and early-aughts dressing—have returned with fresh appeal. Cate Holstein, for example, made the wedge a centerpiece of Khaite’s spring 2026 collection, pairing the sculptural silhouette with everything from printed dresses to tapered trousers. Elsewhere, contemporary labels like Le Monde Béryl, St. Agni, Jude, and Neous have put their own minimalist spin on the shape, proving the once-divisive style is more than ready for a comeback.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Summer Wedges:
Maryam Nassir Zadeh Olympia PVC wedge sandals
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With open-toe season in full swing, wedge sandal outfits offer versatility in spades. They’re not quite as high as a proper heel, delivering a few welcome inches while remaining surprisingly comfortable—a practical option for those of us navigating the city on foot.
As for personal favorites, Neous’s classic black T-strap sandals are a summer style no-brainer. Wear them with Another Tomorrow’s sultry silk tank, a pair of Banana Republic trousers, and Chloé’s knotted leather belt for a look that’s as elevated as it is effortless. Colorwise, Christopher Esber’s red-hot wedges are a vibrant addition to any warm-weather outfit, but we especially love them with Aritzia’s lace-trimmed Bermuda shorts and Loulou de Saison’s elegant wrap top.
Finally, no summer wardrobe is complete without a touch of texture—Alaïa’s raffia thong sandals or Maryam Nassir Zadeh’s PVC pair, to be exact. The latter can ground everything from a vacation-ready dress to office suiting. Below, shop 10 wedge sandal outfits with timeless warm-weather appeal—just as chic now as they were then.
The Classic Black With a Silky Tank
A classic black sandal will never steer you wrong—and certainly not these sleek thong wedges from Neous. Style them for your next night out with Another Tomorrow’s slinky tank, a pair of Banana Republic trousers, and Chloé’s knotted leather belt for a look that’s pared-back yet packed with punch. Loren Stewart’s shell necklace adds a touch of summer, while Khaite’s python-effect shoulder bag is a seasonless star.
