Fashion is inherently nostalgic. We often look back in order to look forward – it’s how trends are born. So far, 2026 has witnessed the return of the peacoat, Topshop’s epic comeback and the tutu skirt renaissance. There are even whispers of the skinny jean revival. Cue the Neyo hits and glimmering blue eyeshadow.
The latest item to unearth itself from the sartorial archives? The wedge sneaker – one of the most divisive styles to emerge from the industry’s shoewear department.
Let me take you back to 2012. French house Isabel Marant debuts the iconic Bekett Sneaker, defined by a suede exterior, an incorporated wedged heel, a high top silhouette and velcro-strap detailing. Within months, the kicks have been worn by stars such as Jennifer Lopez, Kendall Jenner, Lindsay Lohan and, perhaps most famously, Beyoncé – who sported a pair for her Love On Top music video. Zendaya even took to Instagram sporting an off-white pair, visible beneath a grainy, old-school Valencia Instagram filter.
Considering Gen Z’s penchant for rehashing old trends, this renewed interest in wedged sneakers comes as little surprise. The past few seasons have placed ‘ugly-chic’ footwear front and centre of the style radar – with Margiela Tabi’s still reigning supreme alongside finger shoes, platform clogs, asymmetrical heels, Clarks desert boots and leopard print Crocs.
According to Lyst, six of this quarter’s ten hottest products are footwear, spanning functional to avant-garde styles including the Vibram FiveFinger V-Soul, Ancient Greek Sandals Iro jelly shoe, and, you guessed it, Isabel Marant’s Bekett wedge sneaker.
Puma were quick to jump on the bandwagon, releasing the Speedcat Wedge Sneakers to follow the success of the brand’s Speedcat Ballet Sneaker. I Love LA star Rachel Sennott was papped out and about in the suede kicks – prompting young consumers to snap up the shoe en masse.
As were Steve Madden. “The design team tapped into Steve Madden heritage to bring back the It-shoe of the 2010s, the wedge sneaker,” says Christina Ciglar, Chief Product Officer of the brand. “It’s nostalgic for millennials and a first-time love for Gen Z. Everyone is loving the lift and the comfort of this ‘messy girl’ styling. Starting late last year as the ‘must-have’ shoe, it’s perfect for transitioning out of boots and into spring styles.”
Influencer Raymonda Jalloh agrees: “I really like wedge sneakers because they are a playful ode to the 2010s. They were such an It-girl silhouette back then. They are also a nice way to work a chunky trainer into your outfit without it being too reminiscent of the ‘dad trainer’ trend. They add a good boost to any outfit.”
For those who mourn classic Noughties aesthetics, this is your time to shine. The opinion-splitting shoe is back on the market, with statement options by Veronica Beard, Nokwol, Bronx and Bershka available to purchase.
As to how to style them? Discover our tricks and tips below.
How to style wedge sneakers:
© Getty ImagesSlouchy Denim
Allow your wedge sneakers to coolly peak out of your chosen look by teaming them with a pair of deliciously slouchy 00s-style jeans.
© Getty ImagesPleated Mini
Inject your wardrobe with some preppy-chic flair by styling out your Marant-inspired kicks with a Gossip Girl-approved pleated mini.
© Getty ImagesColour Pop
Tap into contrasting colour palettes and make a statement with your shoes. As so elegantly demonstrated above, your wedged sneakers can provide the perfect pop of white.
© Getty ImagesSuper Casual
Embrace the slouchtastic dress codes of the Noughties and slip into a smooth, satin ensemble to match the cool-girl vibe of your suede sneakers.
© Getty ImagesSporty Spice
Wedge sneakers are inherently sporty – despite their heel hindering any chance of sprinting for the bus. Dial up the athletic aesthetic by adding a hoodie, long sleeve and shades into the mix.
© Getty ImagesBalloon Pants
Gloriously puffed, vibrant and elegantly androgynous, the unmissable silhouette of the balloon trouser is comfy-chic personified. Incorporate an haute heel into your look to take your street style to new heights – literally.
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