The Gist
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Wedges are the perfect shoe to not only add a few inches of height but a dash of style to any outfit.
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Both comfortable and fashionable, a wedge shoe is a summer must-have.
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Keep reading for 18 stylish ways to wear wedges and elevate any look—without sacrificing comfort or style.
In fashion, what goes around always comes back around—and wedges are the perfect example. Once the go-to shoe of the early aughts, wedges were worn everywhere by A-listers, from the red carpet to casual street style. Think of it as a revival of all things boho-chic, with wedges making a major return to wardrobes—but with a new, modern vibe. And that’s why it would be good to know how to wear wedges with different outfits.
But first: What makes wedges the perfect alternative to traditional heels? Well, they still give you that extra height but with far more comfort, thanks to the supportive platform. Regardless of the style that you typically choose, there’s a pair of wedges out there that can carry you through the day without the usual heel discomfort.
Keep reading for 18 stylish ways to wear wedges and elevate any look—without sacrificing comfort or style.
Amp Up Clogs
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Heart Evangelista during Paris Fashion Week in March 2025.
Clogs may just be fashion’s most underrated chunky shoe. While some clogs have flat soles or other heel designs, the ones that Filipino actress Heart Evangelista is wearing here are certified wedges. And they help tie this neutral look together.
Add a Pop of Color
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Carrole Sagba wearing a creme oversized blazer, jeans, and yellow wedges in Paris.
If you want to spice up a casual jeans outfit, look no further than a pair of wedges in a vivid summery shade. A bright pop of color and a platform or block heel add enough big fashion energy to elevate even the most basic blue jeans and T-shirt ensemble. Finish off the look with an oversized blazer and matching purse.
Lean Into Mixed Prints
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Jenny Walton outside the Miu Miu show during Paris Fashion Week.
There’s a beautiful cohesion to be found in a mixed print outfit that extends beyond the ankle. High-contrast wedge sandals that combine fabrics and finishes are the cherry on top of an outfit that plays with patterns and embellishments.
Sharpen a Slouchy Suit
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A guest outside Nina Ricci during Paris Fashion Week.
No one wants to swelter in a close-fitting suit in summer, which makes slouchy business casual separates in lightweight fabrics ideal for rising temperatures. Pair a boxy blazer and relaxed-fit trousers with wedge sandals to give them a touch of structure.
Take a Crocheted Set to New Heights
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Pia Wurtzbach at Paris Fashion Week in June 2024.
Thanks to their solidity and soles that evenly distribute weight across the foot, wedges are easier to walk in than other high-heel shoe styles, even at great heights. And you don’t have to sacrifice any style points to capitalize on this comfort. A crocheted set worn with sky-high platform wedges is a great way to channel your inner Coastal French Girl.
Try Sporty Sandals
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Anna Winter in Berlin in July 2022.
Wedges’ versatility extends into the realm of chunky, athletic sandals, and classic pumps. Sporty wedge sandals aren’t ideal for hiking, but wearing them with an A-line minidress and going for a walk in the park? That’s an outdoor excursion these shoes can handle.
Embrace Vintage Vibes
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A guest outside Bode during Paris Fashion Week.
Warm weather calls for cottagecore, vintage frocks, and Bridgerton-inspired dresses, all of which can be tricky to accessorize for a 21st-century look. Happily, woven wedges or classic espadrilles with ribbon ties match energy with the most Victorian girlie ensemble without veering into costume territory.
Opt for Sharp Angles
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A guest outside Prada during Milan Fashion Week in September 2022.
The word “wedge” might conjure up images of gently sloping sandals in cork or raffia, but these shoes can be just as sharp as a pair of stilettos. Unlike sunny espadrilles, pump-like close-toed wedges are all vampy vibes. Wear them with a midiskirt and tank for a sleek look that tiptoes on the line between sophisticated and edgy.
Make It Office-Ready
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Marilyn Nwawulor-Kazemaks during Paris Fashion Week in February 2024.
Wedges are office- and formal-friendly, it just comes down to the styling. This all-black iteration is chic and polished, and the boots keep the outfit feeling modern. Since they’re made of leather, the footwear also adds textural interest.
Go for Bold Jellies
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Emilia Jones at Paris Fashion Week in January 2023.
If your style trends more toward the eclectic or experimental, you might not be tempted by classic wooden, woven, or cork wedges. Luckily, there are plenty of rubber sole and jelly wedge options available. These styles have a starkly futuristic, street-style vibe that works well with satin or silk separates. Want even more impact? Try a sleek, metallic pair.
Wear Them on a Night Out
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Didi Stone at the 75th annual Cannes film festival in May 2022.
Sky-high wedges and a minidress would make a fabulous date night outfit. The wedges are way comfier than single-sole pumps for a night of dancing. And the Barbiecore pink here gives the playful energy you’ll need to stay on the dance floor.
Style With Socks or Tights
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Laura Bailey at a British Vogue Forces for Change dinner in London in December 2022.
Unlike pumps or slingbacks, wedges don’t take themselves too seriously—their eclectic energy pairs well with cheeky accessorizing, including colorful tights and frilled or patterned socks.
Tips
If you plan to style wedges with socks, consider choosing a pair in suede or leather to create a rich visual contrast.
Glam Up a Miniskirt
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Aimee Song during Paris Fashion Week in March 2023.
American blogger and fashion designer Aimee Song knows a thing or two about nailing a look. Here, she proves that bedazzled ankle boot wedges are the perfect addition to a miniskirt outfit that’s meant to be edgy.
Lean Into Comfy
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Jenny Tsang during Paris Fashion Week in September 2022.
To add interest to your outfit, play with contrasting textures. Leather wedge boots and comfy knits complement each other nicely and wear well during colder seasons. The pastel and neutral shades here go well, but even a monochrome color palette would work thanks to mixed materials.
Brighten Up Basics
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Lea Naumann wearing a red shirt and pink midiskirt in Berlin in June 2023.
Simple separates are for the minimalist fashion girlie, but there are times when wardrobe essentials need a bit of a boost. A pair of rosette or bow-adorned wedges adds a touch of eccentricity when worn with a sleek, minimal look without feeling over the top.
Switch It Up With a Sneaker
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Karin Teigl wearing a graphic sweater and purple pants in Vienna in February 2025.
Remember when wedge sneakers had a major moment around 2015? Well, they’re back and they bring a certain casual edginess to looks that other shoes don’t. Since these sneakers add a couple of inches to your apparent height, they would be great to wear with pants that fit just a little too long.
Slip Into Slides
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A guest during New York Fashion Week in September 2022.
If you don’t have a pair of wedge sandals in your shoe collection, what are you waiting for? You can never go wrong with a classic black pair regardless of the occasion. They’re versatile, stylish, and most importantly, walkable.
Dress Down Formal Separates
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A guest at Copenhagen Fashion Week in August 2024.
Wearing formal separates can actually be a lot more comfortable than you think. Just opt for oversized and finish off with fancy flip-flops. To feel extra luxurious, wear your footwear in leather, velvet, or satin.
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