Viral is a word that, in my opinion, is thrown around too flippantly these days. One algorithm-happy TikTok and anything can hit viral fame, no matter how many people are actually invested. For me to regard something as a viral sensation, however, it needs to be genuinely ubiquitous—something that I can’t, for the life of me, escape.
Take, for example, the bow-embellished sandals that, in the last week, I’ve discovered a whopping 17 different versions of. From fast-fashion brands like Zara and Mango to designer labels like Ferragamo and Wandler, everywhere I look are tantalizingly pretty and shockingly tempting summer sandals that all come with one or more dainty bows attached. For hard proof that this trend is legitimately viral, keep scrolling. And get out your credit cards. I get the feeling they’ll be of use in a few seconds time.
Next up: 15 Viral Shoe Trends That Are Already Defining Summer 2023