I Can’t Believe I’m Saying This, But I Think Wedges Might Be Cool Again

For one reason or another, 2021 will go down as the year of the sartorial comeback kid, with everything from low-rise jeans and whale tails to micro miniskirts and platform flip-flops returning to relevancy in a big way. But the year isn’t over yet. Potentially the last resurgence of 2021 arrives in the form of a heel style you likely thought you’d retired for good back in ’07: wedges.

Despite swearing off the sculptural shoe silhouette years ago, after spotting wedges in Emilio Pucci’s F/W 21 collection back in February, I haven’t been able to get them off my mind. Moreover, brands like Dubié, Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Amina Muaddi, and Staud have all put modern spins on the once-outdated style, making wedges all the more tempting. By the time I spotted (and subsequently purchased) a pair of red-leather wedge boots at Zara, I was a full-blown convert.

On the off chance that you aren’t quite so easy to convince, keep scrolling. I’d be willing to bet that you’ll be fast on your way to becoming a certified wedge owner after seeing the 36 pairs ahead. 

I can tell you from experience (not to flex, but I own these) that these are worth the money.

These are bound to keep your feet dry and warm all winter long—not to mention on-trend.

Chocolate-brown boots are a must for 2022.

Everyone will want to know where you got these. 

You can’t tell from this photo, but these booties have the cutest circle cutout in the center. 

Can you tell that I’m obsessed with red wedge boots? 

The comfortable alternative to your high-heeled winter booties.

These just might be the chicest flip-flops I’ve ever seen.

*Becomes five inches taller.* 

We can agree that these are the coolest wedges ever, right?

These are too classic not to add to your shopping cart.

These platform sandals are giving me serious “early aughts Paris Hilton by the pool” vibes.

If you haven’t yet tried Reformation’s shoe line, this is your sign to do so. 

Platform flip-flops are back. 

This $56 style is the perfect way to test out wedges IRL.

Fact: You can’t go wrong with Reike Nen.

These are calling my name for the holiday season.

Part house slippers, part 2021 trendy footwear.

This is the year of clogs.

Anyone who knows me well knows just how much I adore a mock-croc detail.

*Stores in closet for first day of spring.*

The only thing cooler than wedges right now are wedges that are on sale. 

It’s the subtle ruching for me.

Anyone who’s had their eyes on these wedges for years (myself included!) knows all too well just how hard they are to find in stock. 

These will never go out of style

Neutrals forever.

This stiletto-wedge hybrid is an actual work of art.

Phillip Lim knows how to make damn good shoes.

Literally anything Christopher Esber does will impress me, and these sandals are no exception.

A good logo moment never goes unappreciated.

Fingers crossed there is a beach vacation in your near future.

Charles & Keith keeps having to restock these.

Kate Middleton frequents this shoe brand. 

Once you have cream-and-black espadrilles, navy is an obvious next purchase.

Espadrilles for $31? *Buys immediately*

Gucci goes to the beach. 

Next, 10 Editors Share Their Real Feelings About Wedges

Promo image: courtesy of Zara.