2026 has been all about tapping into eras past, revisiting trends that we once adored and have, perhaps, recoiled at the thought of, and ultimately modernizing it. Low-rise bootcut jeans, stretchy headbands, jelly shoes, and anklets to name a few. Now, in the latest installment of old trends that we didn't anticipate making a major comeback: the wedge! Popular in the 1930s and then again in the '70s,'90s and early '00s, I even recall my own mother's affinity for wedged espadrilles in the 2010s and the mixed reaction (joy on one hand, rage on another) to Isabel Marant's wedged sneakers hitting the scene (and taking over Tumblr)—what a time to be alive, truly.
Last year, the Spring/Summer 2026 runways featured wedges in various forms and silhouettes—and now the baby wedge is reborn. The prominence of the silhouette has us thinking two things: the wedge is way more versatile than we ever thought, and our wardrobes desperately need a pair (or two).
Acne Studios SS26 // Launchmetrics
Zimmermann SS26 // LaunchmetricsAcne Studios and Zimmermann approached the wedge in polar opposite ways. On Acne Studios' Spring/Summer 2026 runway, wedges took a vampy, gothic form in dramatic black loafers. Over at Zimmermann, the boho wedge took center stage with ankle-tie details.
Boss SS26 // Launchmetrics
Isabel Marant SS26 // LaunchmetricsOver at Boss Spring/Summer 2026, a strong case was made for the wedge as a go-to evening shoe. Who needs a pump or kitten heel when a wedged mule complete with a pointy toe and buckle strap detailing is available. On the other end of the wedge spectrum, Isabel Marant tapped into the '70s with casual suede wedge sandals complete with leather floral detailing. This side-by-side presents the duality of the wedge—some casual, some formal, but both with endless styling opportunities.
I'll leave you with some good news: the summer of the wedge isn't over quite yet, so it's not too late to pick up a pair.
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