Elegant Dressers Are Wearing This Once-Hated Shoe Trend Like It Was Never

October 14, 2025 / Swedan Margen /

When I think about shoe trends over the past decade or so, few come to mind that are more divisive than wedges. But if you’re thinking of the wedge sneakers and chunky wedges of the 2010s, those are not the wedge-heel shoes of today. Thanks to brands like Toteme, Fendi, and Alaïa, wedge heels are back, and the 2025 version is far more elegant than previous iterations.

The wedges of 2025 are far more streamlined and sculptural than past versions. They typically have a low heel and a pointed toe. Most are backless mules or slingbacks, although you will see a pump here and there. If you’re looking for an IRL example, Rose Byrne was just spotted in NYC wearing a pair of black mules that exemplify the 2025 take on the trend. The angular backless mules have a low heel and a pointed toe, and are as elegant as a shoe gets, if you ask me.

If you’re even more intrigued than you were when you clicked in, keep scrolling to see the aforementioned Rose Byrne look, along with mules on the streets of the various S/S 26 fashion weeks. Lastly, I rounded up the chicest wedge-heel shoes of 2025—you’re welcome.