Notorious in the 2010s, wedge sneakers have been an all-time polarising fashion item. Akin to debates like pineapple on pizza or sleeping with socks on, it’s a divisive opinion. Pioneered by Isabel Marant, the ‘Bekett’ bridged the basketball high tops with a hidden wedge. A perfect invention for fashion aficionados who craved a few extra inches of height without the blister-inducing pain of traditional pumps. They were even cemented by celebrities like Beyonce in her ‘Love on Top’ music video back in 2011. Rihanna, too rocked them in a full denim look complete with a camo hat. But even with their star-studded endorsements, the trend fizzled out rather quickly.
Despite its short-lived fame, it’s undeniable that wedge sneakers command a certain appeal. In 2021, Marant revived the sneaker with a bigger and better model, the ‘Balskee’. Subsequently, Ottolinger showcased their version most recently on the fall/winter runway at Paris Fashion Week, signalling the slow and steady rebound of this distinctive shoe. And it’s no wonder they’re making a comeback; in light of trends integrating athletics into fashion, like ‘blokette’—think sports jerseys, Adidas shorts, and sporty ballet flats—it all adds up.
Off the runway, the sneaker has also gained traction on Instagram—this time via innovative and more flattering ways of styling.
Safe to say, its return is imminent. Below, discover the best ways to style wedge sneakers, below.
1 / 20
Sporty and rich
Exalt your retro athleisure game and pair wedge sneakers and leg warmers with a slouchy, oversized jumper for a look that’s both vibrant and ready for the gym.
7 / 20
Lazy yet breezy
An outfit could never go wrong with a lay slip dress. Contrast its feminine appeal by layering it with a graphic tee—or even a sleep shirt for that effortless ‘I woke up like this’ vibe.
11 / 20
Retrosuperfuture black caro refined sunglasses, $330
Available at SSENSE.
12 / 20
Mob wife incoming
Match the maximalist energy of the Marant Balskee with an all-ivory ensemble that artfully plays with layering. For extra aura points, slip on a fur vest.
13 / 20
Isabel Marant Balskee high-top leather sneakers, $894
Available at Farfetch.
14 / 20
Balmain faux fur vest, $3540
Courtesy of Farfetch.
17 / 20
A definitive tuck
When coupling baggy jeans with wedge sneakers, tuck the hems behind the tongue to show off your kicks.
18 / 20
Isabel Marant IM3 hidden-wedge sneakers, $791
19 / 20
MISBHV cracked cropped faux-leather jacket, $895
Available at Farfetch.
