How To Style Wedge Sandals: A 2025 Guide
August 01, 2025
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Wedge sandals are a wardrobe staple — especially in summer. They're comfortable enough for you to wear all day long, and versatile enough to be paired with a huge range of outfits — including dresses, trousers and shorts.
They're the perfect choice of footwear for many summer occasions too — whether you're off to a wedding or taking a trip to the beach.
Find out more about summer wedge sandals in our style guide.
What are wedge sandals?
Wedge sandals (aka wedges) have a joined heel and sole, which is often made from wood, cork or acrylic. The base of the sole is sometimes wrapped with another material such as leather or suede to match the straps.
While the design dates to ancient Greece, wedges started to become popular in the 1930's as an orthopaedic shoe, before breaking into the fashion world.
Why should I wear wedge sandals?
- Supportive and stable. Wedge sandals have a solid, single sole. They were originally developed to correct heel problems or instep issues, such as fallen arches, so they provide support all day long.
- Comfortable. Wedges don't tend to rub and cause blisters as much as other shoes, so they're comfortable to wear over long periods of time.
- Versatile and stylish. Wedge sandals come in a range of designs which can be paired with dresses, jeans and shorts — making them a popular summer footwear choice.
What to wear wedge sandals with
Wedges are one of the most versatile types of sandals, so there are plenty of outfits that will suit. You could wear wedges with jeans for a casual outfit that's perfect for a summer evening, or with shorts for the daytime. For a more elegant look that still feels casual, wear wedge sandals with a dress.
Here's a quick guide to wearing wedge sandals.
Styling wedges with jeans
It's easy to pair wedge sandals with skinny jeans to create a casual outfit. For daytime casual wear, opt for a wedge with a heel of three inches or below. Neutral colours like black, brown, nude and white will work with a variety of outfits, while tan leather wedges add a boho chic vibe to denim.
If you're embracing the summer sun, don't be afraid to pick out a bright accent colour from your top — like coral pink, emerald green, or vibrant purple — to really make them stand out. Espadrille wedges in bold blues or sunny yellows create an effortlessly Mediterranean feel when styled with light-wash denim.
Creating casual looks with shorts
Much like skinny jeans, shorts tend to be a casual clothing option. Once again, keeping wedge heels low and opting for neutral tones is a great way to go, though metallic gold or silver wedges can add a touch of glamour to evening shorts looks.
A pair of cute denim shorts teamed with black wedge sandals and a casual T-shirt is a winning combination for a summer's day. For a more polished approach, try tailored linen shorts with woven rope wedges and a crisp white shirt – perfect for seaside lunches or garden parties.
Pairing wedges with dresses
Wedges can help dress your outfit up or down. When paired with a flowing red maxi dress, black three-inch wedge sandals with metallic details can really add a touch of class to an evening outfit. For romantic florals, blush pink or nude wedges create a soft, feminine aesthetic.
When pairing with a daytime dress, follow similar rules to shorts and skinny jeans. Low and simple is best for a relaxed look - think natural cork wedges with casual sundresses or strappy tan wedges with midi dresses. Platform wedges in canvas or suede work beautifully with bohemian-style dresses and flowing fabrics. Why not check out our evening sandals collection to compliment your late-night attire.
Where should I wear wedges?
There are so many different wedge sandal styles that are suitable for many occasions. Read on to discover the best occasions for wearing wedges as part of a winning summer outfit.
Can I wear wedge sandals to work?
Many people wonder if wedge sandals are business casual — but that really depends on your work environment. Unless there's a strict dress code, opt for a plain, smart, low wedge without too much embellishment. Closed-toe wedges in classic navy or sophisticated black leather offer the most professional look, while nude or taupe shades elongate the leg beautifully with tailored trousers. They'll keep your feet cool, smart and comfortable — a workday winner.
Which wedge sandals are best for the beach?
When you're on the beach, almost anything goes. Sand isn't as stable as the pavement though, so we'd recommend a low wedge with an ankle strap for maximum seaside enjoyment. Low wedge sandals are also a festival footwear choice.
Are wedges appropriate for a wedding?
Weddings are a great opportunity to break out those dressier wedge sandals. Whether you're a bridesmaid, wedding guest or even the bride, wedges could be the answer to all-day comfort.
For an occasion like this, you can afford to go for an elegant, high, embellished wedge. Lower, simpler styles might look a little underdressed, so opt for something special if you're choosing wedding footwear.
Which are the best wedge sandals for wide or narrow feet?
Just like every type of shoe, certain styles of wedge sandals will suit your feet better than others. If you find the right pair of wedges, you'll never want to wear anything else. If you have:
- Wide feet - look for wider fit options. If these aren't available, strappy styles rather than peep toes will work best, as these will allow your feet a little more wiggle room.
- Narrow feet - peep toe styles may be better suited to those with narrow feet. Look out for adjustable ankle straps to keep your foot secure in the sandal.
Find out which shoes will make wide or narrow feet more comfortable in our fitting guide.
Explore our complete collection of women's sandals to discover the perfect pair for your summer wardrobe.
Check out the shoezone blog for more style tips and footwear suggestions for every occasion.