Whether you love or hate them, wedge shoes are one of the most popular shoe styles. These shoes are synonymous with spring and summer, with every woman owning at least one pair of wedge shoes over their lifetime.
Gwyneth Paltrow, Alicia Vikander, Elle Fanning, Kate Hudson, and Angelina Jolie wear different styles of wedge shoes (Credit: FayesVision / Sean Thorton / Daniel Deme / WENN)
Wedge shoes come in every shape and size, from sneakers to boots and everything in between. Our guide gives you a full rundown of everything you need to know about wedge shoes and the most comfortable wedge shoes for women.
How Do Wedges and Heels Differ?
No, they are not. Wedge shoes are characterized by their distinctive sole, which is made out of one piece of rubber material that also acts as the heel.
Wedges have continuous, solid outsoles that are elevated at the back, while heels have the elevated back part separated from the sole underneath the toes
The design originated in ancient Greece, with wedge shoes worn as a status symbol. They were typically worn as part of stage plays to help the audience identify which characters were of a higher status.
Actors wore platform shoes to help differentiate between tragic and comedy characters, with the latter wearing plain socks.
This satin sandal with sculpted kidskin-covered cork platform is just one of the first few wedge shoes designed by Salvatore Ferragamo in the 1940s
Our modern version of wedge shoes for women was made popular by the Italian brand Salvatore Ferragamo. The designer brought the silhouette back to the Italian market in the 1930s, with the shoes continuing to evolve through the 1990s.
It’s not just women who have popular worn wedge shoes. During the 1970s, men’s wedge boots – known as ‘wedgies’ – became mainstream, with a low wedge heel.
The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, effortlessly showcases her timeless style with a love for versatile and elegant wedge shoes, perfect for any occasion (Credit: Phil Lewis / WENN)
Although these shoes have a vintage feel, they’re still popular. One celebrity famous for their love of wedge shoes is the Duchess of Cambridge, who has several go-to pairs she wears every spring and summer.
Why Are Wedges More Comfortable Than Heels?
You could be forgiven for thinking wedge shoes were just like heels. The main difference between the two is the soles.
Wedge shoes have a solid outsole with a tapered flat toe that gives you an elevated high. This silhouette typically makes wedge shoes more comfortable and easier to walk in than their traditional high-heel counterparts.
By comparison, stilettos have a heel that sits separately from the shoe’s sole. Even though there are distinctive differences between wedge shoes and high heels, you’ll often find them grouped when shopping.
We’re increasingly seeing wedge shoes take on new silhouettes, particularly with sneaker styles.
Discover the Benefits of Wearing Wedge Shoes
You might be wondering what makes wedge shoes so special. Not only are they more comfortable to wear than traditional heels, but they also have several health benefits.
The wedge sole gives you extra arch support and can reduce the likelihood of ankle and foot problems. Wedges can be a game-changer for your closet if you have knee or ankle issues.
You can still enjoy the benefits of a few extra inches in height without worrying about spraining your ankle or straining your knee.
Salma Hayek, Nicki Minaj, Rose McGowan, and Fergie showcase their unique styles while adding a touch of height and comfort with chic wedge footwear (Credit: John Rainford / WENN)
Like any shoe that gives you extra height, wedge shoes help to elongate the appearance of your body and can improve your posture by making you stand taller.
Choosing a pair of wedge shoes in a neutral tone can help make your legs look longer by creating a streamlined silhouette.
Top Wedge Styles You Need in Your Wardrobe
While wedges can come in and out of style every year, their general silhouette is timeless.
What makes them wedge shoes is their sole. While more styles are hitting the market every year, there are three prominent styles that you want to add to your closet.
1. Wedge Sandals: A Summer Staple
These are the most popular styles and the earliest modern silhouettes of the shoe. Cork wedge shoes are the most recognizable in today’s fashion industry.
Cork wedge sandals are the most common style of wedge shoes and are most prevalent during spring and summer
They first appeared on the scene in the 1950s, thanks to Salvatore Ferragamo, who utilized cork due to the economic sanctions against Italy.
When he could no longer pay the inflated prices for steel to make traditional heels, he began experimenting with Sardinian cork to make soles and heels. The cork was glued to the shoe as one piece, connecting the heel and sole.
2. Wedge Boots: Comfort Meets Practicality
This style gives you the practicality of the traditional shoe with the added comfort of the wedge sole. If you have always wanted to wear knee-high boots but are scared of a block heel, these shoes are the perfect alternative.
A pair of wedge boots should give a chic and comfy finish to any winter outfit
They also prove that wedge shoes are not just for spring and summer. You can find wedge boots of all heights and shaft styles, from rubber ankle boots to over-the-knee suede boots.
3. Wedge Sneakers: Elevate Your Everyday Look
These shoes are the latest style to hit the market. With the industry prioritizing comfort, it’s no surprise that our favorite sneakers have had a makeover.
Give off a cool-girl vibe with ’90s-style wedge sneakers
Wedge sneakers are unique as you enjoy the usual comfort of these shoes but with the benefits and versatility of a few extra inches in height.
Wedge sneakers first appeared in the 1990s, frequently appearing in music videos by Spice Girls and other pop groups.
If you want to delve deeper into the world of wedge footwear, Your Next Shoes offers a variety of articles that explore different styles and trends. You might enjoy learning about the resurgence of wedge sneakers, showcasing how celebrities are embracing this comfortable yet stylish option. Additionally, our guide on platform shoes provides insights into various types, including platform wedges, and offers tips on how to wear them with confidence.
For those drawn to unique and avant-garde designs, our article on the most iconic statement shoes highlights extraordinary wedge styles that have made fashion history. These resources offer a comprehensive look at the versatility and enduring appeal of wedge shoes in modern fashion.
Stepping Up: Celebrity Moments in Wedge Shoes
Wedge shoes have long been a celebrity favorite, offering the perfect blend of style and comfort. From casual strolls to red-carpet events, here are some iconic moments where stars elevated their outfits with wedges:
- Jennifer Aniston: While filming “Squirrels to the Nuts” in Manhattan, Jennifer sported Stuart Weitzman’s “Alex” wedges. These espadrille-inspired sandals feature crocheted ankle-wrap straps and jute-covered wedge heels, perfectly complementing her summer-ready wardrobe.
- Eva Longoria: Spotted at Los Angeles International Airport, Eva paired a chic outfit with Steve Madden’s “Wildness” wedge sandals. Made of nubuck leather, these wedges add a touch of sophistication with their cork wedge heels and adjustable ankle straps.
- Sienna Miller: At a high-profile fashion event, Sienna showcased her bohemian roots in a white lace dress paired with Chloé “Maxime” wedge sandals. The two-tone design added a modern twist to her classic boho ensemble.
- Rihanna: Known for her bold fashion choices, Rihanna stepped out in navy blue suede Giuseppe Zanotti platform wedges. Her vibrant outfit highlighted her fearless style and love for statement footwear.
- Kendall Jenner: Seen shopping in Hollywood, Kendall rocked a pair of bright coral red hi-top wedge sneakers. These trendy sneakers added a sporty touch to her casual look, perfectly capturing her signature off-duty model style.
These unforgettable celebrity moments showcase how wedge shoes can seamlessly elevate any outfit, proving they’re a must-have in every fashion-forward wardrobe.