The Wedge Sneaker: Can You Pull It Off?
When I first glimpsed the warping of the sneaker into heel form, my first thought was Someone had way too much time on their hands. What on earth would compel someone to oddly fuse together the practical with the impractical? It seemed like the product of someone’s evident, alarming, and total lapse in sense – perhaps even in their insanity.
Or was it? For sure, I’d see images of some wearing them in the oddest of ways – loud and chachki-esque, pleather-y in texture and tackily in wild colors. But then I started seeing them appear more subtly in some outfits…and I liked it. I started to appreciate the elevated look about them (pun intended, thank you, because #metaphors), without sacrificing the laid-back vibe that all sneakers have.
Too good to be true? Try them on and you’ll be just as persuaded (albeit hesitantly as I was). Allow us to help you out in pulling them off without looking like a Lil Mama lookalike. Check out these options on how to wear them well:
Glam
Steve Madden Wedgie Sneaker $89
Everyone loves a good Steve Madden shoe (leaving my wallet crying on the reg. Steve, you naughty thing…) Embrace a glammed-out feel with a suede pair of wedge kicks. Playing with texture does incredible things to an outfit, creating depth and dimension in lovely and unique ways. Make it your own and let them stand out in a bit of noticeable color, like olive or grey.
Neutral
Comfort Zipper Wedge Sneakers $38
Did you know that legs look instantly longer when you pair a shoe with pants or tights in the same color? Black is the way to go slimming and sexy, especially for ushering in some impending colder weather. And with the additional lengthened shape of a wedge shoe, hello longer- and more slender- looking legs. Come hither and take a gander at this supes comfy pair. You’re welcome!
Statement
Coin Hidden Wedge Sneakers by Steven $129
Hello, studs. In a monochromatic ensemble, just picture the punch your shoes will have when they pop with a smattering of sexy spikes. But don’t overdo it – treat them as you would any other statement accessory, by making it the talking piece against a quieter canvas of neutrals to let it speak volumes.
Balance
Geo Illusion 34 Wedge Sneaker $129
There’s no doubt these carry an edgier feel than your average shoe. It’s a funky shape, often available in eclectic textures and colors. If you’re feeling a little Nicki Minaj and want to make a pop of a statement with a loud wedge sneaker, we totally support you. But all you need to edge up a feminine maxi dress or skirt, per se, is a solid neutral in a color without too strong a contrast to the dress. Keep seasonal colors together (no need for neons paired with cooler winter tones), and the tomboy vibes will blend beautifully and uniquely with the girly ones.
Casual
We love the girl next door look, and guys do, too. A baseball cap (tomboy) over pretty curled tresses (girly) is the cutest combo since Posh and Beckham. But to avoid looking frumpy, fear not - this shoe keeps even the plainest of outfits still interesting. So, to throw together a low-key outfit with a touch of cool, here’s your tried-and-true formula: jeans, T-shirt, baseball cap, and your trusty wedge sneaker. Many a celeb has stepped out in this easy-peasy getup, and now it’s your turn. Here’s a bit of inspo from Victoria’s Secret angel Alessandra Ambrosio, who frequently dons wedge sneaks.
Cover image via Glam Radar
