Wedge heels, long associated with Noughties holiday wardrobes and summer weddings, are making a comeback for 2026. The revival has been driven by recent runways from Victoria Beckham, Chloé and Isabel Marant, the latter of which revived its iconic Bekett wedge sneaker. While designers have updated the classic wedge with cut-outs and textural finishes, the heel retains its reputation for comfortable height.
According to Lisa Illis, head of womenswear design at Marks & Spencer, the trend is part of a wider move towards nostalgic dressing. "Many current trends are all about throwback appeal," she explains. "Although their history begins in the Thirties, wedge heels are closely associated with bold Y2K fashion." Early-2000s style is one of the biggest decades to return to the trend cycle, alongside reinterpretations of the Nineties. Style icons such as Britney Spears, Paris Hilton and actress Sienna Miller helped cement wedges as a defining shoe of that era.
Today's wedges differ from their early-2000s predecessors. "I'm enjoying seeing the classic silhouette reimagined with unexpected touches such as animal prints, metallics, suede and buckle detailing," says Illis. Where early-2000s wedges were often dominated by rope soles and espadrille styles, today's versions feel more elevated, with cleaner lines and richer textures. "We've moved away from the espadrille wedge of the early 2000s to something more sophisticated." Small wedged heels are also trending alongside kitten heels, allowing height without sacrificing comfort.
Styling is key to making wedges work in 2026. While a floaty dress remains a classic pairing, Illis suggests a more updated approach: "Flowy floral dresses and chunky wedges are a classic summer pairing, but for a more up-to-date take, try a floaty co-ord instead of a dress." Co-ordinated sets in lightweight fabrics like linen or seersucker bring a refined feel. For casual looks, tailored shorts with a tank top offer an office-ready option, while wide-leg or bootcut jeans create a streamlined silhouette that elongates the leg.
Details matter to avoid an outdated look. "Wide-ankle straps can shorten the leg," Illis warns. "They're best balanced with trousers or mini hemlines." For those opting for supportive wide-ankle straps, a Seventies-inspired look with long flared jeans and a floaty blouse works well. More minimalist designs, such as slingbacks or delicate straps, are versatile and pair beautifully with maxi or midi dresses. For hesitant wearers, Illis advises starting simple: "A pair of wide-leg jeans and a simple top is an easy way to introduce wedges without overthinking it."
