By now, we're well aware that fashion is cyclical. Popular trends take off one day and then get left at the back of our wardrobes the next, but they always come back around, whether it is years or decades later. That's exactly what happened with the latest shoe trend to resurface for 2023: wedge sandals.
If that made you shiver, I get it. But modern wedge sandals aren't the 2010 iteration that featured sky-high heels and a peep toe. Personally, I won't be wearing that wedge-sandal trend, but the new updated styles are definitely on my list. As always happens with returning styles, they've been updated to fit our current aesthetic, which thankfully means that the 2023 wedge-sandal trend is sleek, minimal and much chicer than before.
A few years ago, we saw the return of flatforms and platforms that took everything from sandals to trainers in their stride. Now, in the midst of the quiet-luxury revolution, we're still seeing flatforms and platforms trending, but in a streamlined silhouette that makes them much more eternally chic. From the original clunky wedge sandals of years gone by comes three trending styles that I'm ready to get behind: quiet-luxury wedges, classic espadrilles and renewed platforms. Though these styles may take inspiration from trends past, they're anything but passé. Quiet-luxury wedges retain features from its predecessor but have left the bulky feel behind, opting for a more understated feel. The second wedge style I'm eyeing up is espadrilles. Though these Parisian shoes never really went away, I believe they deserve their time in the limelight as a trusted shoe style that has long proven their timeless worth. Finally, flatform sandals have retained the nostalgic feel with a little less height and a little more simplicity to ensure their longevity within our wardrobes.
Interested? Me too. So let's explore the three wedge-sandal styles that are trending right now. Plus, I've added some shoppable options if you're ready to dip your toe in the trend. Pun intended.
1. QUIET-LUXURY WEDGE SANDALS
Style Notes: If you're looking for the quiet-luxury version of wedge sandals, it's all in the detail. Less of a platform, the new wedges come in strappy versions and mule silhouettes and have a generally sleeker look.
SHOP THE STYLE:
I couldn't believe these were M&S either.
Metallics are another strong trend this summer, so why not double up for maximum impact?
Simple, sleek and seriously chic.
Timeless neutrals are always a good idea.
Well done, Zara.
It's all about the heel on this pair.
2. CLASSIC WEDGE ESPADRILLES
Style Notes: Espadrilles have an innately French feel that we're always keen to embrace in our wardrobes. Always in style, a pair of espadrilles embraces the wedge trend return whilst promising longevity in your wardrobe.
SHOP THE STYLE:
These are my go-to wedding guest shoes for summer.
This pair went straight on my wish list.
If you're looking for heels that won't sink into the grass, espadrilles are my personal choice.
Massimo Dutti gets it right every time.
A standout pair courtesy of Loewe.
Flatform versions work well too.
3. MODERN FLATFORM SANDALS
Style Notes: In years gone by, you'd be hard-pressed to find flatform sandals that were less than five inches high. Lucky for us and our ankles, the reconsidered platforms are lower and more understated and go with pretty much anything.
SHOP THE STYLE:
Just enough height to make an impact.
This pair comes in classic neutrals and a bold pink hue.
These look so comfy.
You're sure to treasure this investment pair forever.
These also come in black, white and a zesty yellow.
The woven fabric is a nice touch for summer.
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