With fashion still in the throws of a nineties and noughties resurgence that’s been borderlining obsessive, a revival of the wedge shoe was only a matter of time.
One of the era’s most notable shoe silhouettes, behind that of the ballet flat which has already seen an exponential reprisal in the style community, the strappy wedge is receiving a glow up to slip seamlessly into our 2024 wardrobes.
Gone are the boho-inspired chunky, cork soles of our noughties nightmares, replaced with styles favouring minimalism and quiet luxury through dainty, strappy details atop sleek and sculptural heels.
Somehow both dressy and understated, the modern wedge could prove the perfect shoe for those who want to look polished sans the effort.
A champion of the wedge’s return, Australian label St Agni’s sophisticated and sensual take on the design only proves our point.
“We wanted to create new iterations of the wedge, playing with height, structure and textiles, to offer an effortless design that works cohesively with our collections,” Lara Fells, St Agni’s co-founder and creative director tells marie claire Australia.
Beloved Australian footwear label Alias Mae has also adopted the ‘90s style as part of their AW24 collection featuring both boot and point toe iterations.
“Wedges are so just comfortable and stable, enabling them to be the perfect shoe for transitioning from day to night,” Emily Crockford, Alias Mae’s Visual Communications Manager & Design Assistant, tells us.
“By making our wedges super streamlined and removing the quintessential ‘chunk’ that is often featured in this category we believe it offers more versatility to this style of shoe.”
How To Style Wedges With Outfits
Minimalism and drawing from the ‘90s are key when figuring out how to style wedges. Whether it’s a strappy wedge or a sculptural mule, you can never go wrong with straight leg jeans or tailored pants.
“Depending on the occasion, I will style them with a casual basic tee or tank, tailored blazer, and pants. For an evening look I would switch up my top but still maintain a minimal look,” Lara shares.
While Emily opts for a wedge boot with “a LBD and an oversized winter coat” for the “ultimate day to night fit.”
The Best Wedges To Shop This Season
Architectural Wedge
$379 at St Agni
Inspired by ‘90s silhouettes, St Agni’s sleek take on the wedge is sexy, sophisticated and understated. Essentially, they’re a minimalist’s dream.
Style Notes:
- Material: 100% sheep leather upper
- Colour: Black
- Heel height: 7cm
- Delivery: Free on orders over $400
Alias Mae Rhys Wedge
$229.95 at The Iconic
The clear vinyl upper and pointed-toe profile further the ’90s agenda of this black patent style.
Style Notes:
- Material: Synthetic upper
- Colour: Black
- Heel height: 9cm
- Delivery: Free on orders over $75
The bold pop of red, the high-shine metallic finish, the angular twist of the heel–all utter perfection.
Style Notes:
- Material: Leather
- Colour: Red
- Heel height: 11.5cm
- Delivery: Free on orders over $500
Eline Wedge
NZD$930 at Paris Georgia
Kiwi brand Paris Georgia puts a directional spin on the wedge silhouette with this sculptural, toe-covering pair. The bold blue hue feels fresh for summer event season – pair with trending chocolate brown and butter yellow pieces.
Style Notes:
- Material: Leather
- Colours: Nuvola, Marmount and Black
- Delivery: Free on orders over NZD$500
Riya Wedge
$320 at Alohas
A super squared-toe, simple strap and matte black finish combine to create an easy-wearing but elegant pair. They’re practically begging to be worn with a slinky slip dress.
Style Notes:
- Material: Leather upper and insole
- Colour: Black
- Heel height: 7cm
- Delivery: Free on orders over $250
Rozelle Heel
$129.95 (usually $219.95) at Jo Mercer
Crafted in a soft cream leather with square toe and subtle tan tube detail, this affordable mule looks and feels luxurious without breaking the bank.
Style Notes:
- Material: Leather
- Colour: Cream
- Heel height: 9cm
- Delivery: Free on orders over $140
Crete Wedge
$349 (usually $550) at Viktoria & Woods
With a tapered wedge heel, square toe and strappy mule shape, Vik & Woods have mastered the modern wedge for a comfortable yet chic style you’ll wear everywhere.
Style Notes:
- Material: Leather upper and insole
- Colour: Black
- Heel height: 7cm
- Delivery: Free on orders over $150
Yara Sandal
$595 (usually $790) at Cult Gaia
With its curved heel giving the illusion of floating on air and cracked-silver metallic finish, this wedge is for statement makers.
Style Notes:
- Material: 100% leather
- Colour: Silver
- Heel Height: 10.75cm
- Delivery: Free on all orders over $150
Are wedges trending in 2024?
Like all things ’90s and Y2K, wedges are back in the zeitgeist. Take a conservative approach with a classic black pair. Or let bold colours and statement details amp up the attitude this summer.
How do I wear wedges?
Wedges can be swapped into outfits where you might normally pick a strappy sandal or pair of pumps. The added height is helpful for long hemlines. And for occasions when you need a little bit of extra support, a graded heel can be more comfortable. Wear them night or day; casual or cocktail.
Looking to save money on wedge heels? Check out our coupon codes for Jo Mercer, NET-A-PORTER and more.
This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
