Everyone knows that it’s the nature of the trend cycle for things to come back in style eventually. Sometimes it takes 20 or 30 years. But more often than not, the thing you said you’d never wear again will be the hot item again in about 10 years. This year, we’ve seen capris, jelly flats, glittery beauty, and more make its way back to mainstream. And the latest item coming out on the other side of the trend cycle and back into our closets? Wedge sandals.
Fear not, though. If you’re picturing Cartoon Lizzie’s orange, chunky-platform wedges or the six-inch velvet ones we were wearing with business casual to the club, you’ll be relieved to know this version is not quite that. The wedges we’re seeing everywhere right now are much sleeker and fit more seamlessly into any wardrobe—plus, they’re a lot closer to the ground. However, if you have old espadrille wedges laying around, it might be time to take them for a spin.
Below, I’m breaking down exactly how to wear wedges in a modern way, plus the best wedge sandals you can buy now.
How to Wear Wedges in 2026
Color blocking
If you’re looking to add some color to your wardrobe, I’m a huge fan of color blocking with the sandwich method. Like in the example above, this means pairing a wedge in a particular color with a top in that same color. It’s simple, but makes you look extra styled and fashionable.
With a maxi skirt
Something about a wedge—especially in a thong sandal style—gives off major feminine goddess energy. Lean in with a flowy maxi skirt. You can take it up a notch by finishing the look with an intricately-detailed top.
With long shorts
If you want to go the more casual route in styling your wedges, you can’t go wrong with long shorts and a tee. Long shorts can be tough to style, but the wedge elongates your legs and takes some of the guesswork out of whether or not they work.
Sporty chic
Styling your wedges with a sporty chic outfit plays on one of my absolute favorite fashion moves: contrast. You might think an oversized striped tee, a pair of capris, and a slick-back bun calls for something like a flat flip-flop or even a sneakerina. But finishing the look with a pair of heeled wedges instead instantly takes the look from expected to Pinterest-worthy.
The Best Wedge Sandals for Summer
The beauty of wedges in 2026 is that they’re not the clunky, hard-to-walk-in styles from the 2010s. This iteration is sleek, easy to style, and most importantly: comfortable to walk in. From thongs to espadrilles to ankle-strap styles, these are the best wedge sandals to shop now.
Jessica Welsh, Senior Fashion & Beauty Editor
Jessica oversees and edits all fashion and beauty content on The Everygirl. She also writes in-depth styling stories, trend reports, capsule wardrobes, and more. She was previously the Commerce Editor for The Everymom, where she oversaw all shopping content on the site and social. She has created editorial content for major brands such as Nordstrom, Old Navy, and Kohl’s.
The post Wedges are Back and Chicer Than Ever—How to Wear Them in 2026 appeared first on The Everygirl.
