Linen pants, cotton sundresses, denim shorts, boxy tees. Most summertime staples tend to look the same year after year, if only out of necessity—when it’s this hot out, we have no choice but to turn to the classics that keep us cool. But that’s not to say there’s no room for trends. If you want to see the difference between a 2026 look and a 2023 one, all you have to do is glance at the shoes.
I’m Calling It: Kitten Wedge Sandals Are the Shoes of the Summer
Goldilocks would *love* these
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Published Jul 8, 2026
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Stephanie Maida/Retailers
While jellies and sporty flats are making a strong case for themselves, I’m declaring kitten wedge sandals the real ‘It’ shoes of summer ‘26. Like the (somewhat controversial) skinny-heel version, a kitten wedge clocks in between 1 and 2 inches high, providing just enough of a boost to elongate the leg and help you stand a little taller, but not enough to serve as a wobble risk. They’re sleek, chic and easy to walk in—and they’re elevating everything from flip-flops to slide sandals, literally.
From faux-suede thongs from the Gap to jelly-inspired espadrilles from Amazon, I’ve found seven shoppable styles starting at $45, so you can show off the trend from brunch to beach before the season’s end.
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1. Gap Thong Wedge Sandals
Gap
Vegan suede for summer? Embrace it. And if you’re hesitant, just check out the reviews of Gap’s take on the kitten-wedge thong. “The perfect summer wedge,” declared one buyer, while another said the style is “even better-looking in person.” It’s even won over (self-described) wedge-averse shoppers who said the low heel was so comfortable that they were able to rack up thousands of steps in them.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 6 to 10
2. Tony Bianco Leather Ember Slides
Tony Bianco
If there were ever a shoe to secure on preorder, this is it. Crafted from leather with a vintage feel, these minimalist slides seem straight out of the ‘90s—refined one-strap upper and all. And while the wedge heel stands at only 2 inches tall, it’s sure to make a statement thanks to its curved, sculptural design.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 10
3. Reformation Leather Amelia Thong Wedge Sandals
Reformation
Although they’re available in four colorways, I’m drooling over Reformation’s slick leather thong sandals in this cherry red hue. They’ll serve as the perfect pop of color to complement all-white fits or slim black capris, while the eel-like texture gives them a glam, glossy finish. Pricey though they are, you can feel good about spending the extra dough when you consider the brand’s sustainable practices.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
4. Tory Burch Leather Patos Wedge Slides
Tory Burch
Certainly not your average wedge slides, these wearable works of art feature transparent resin heels and bold metal embellishments on what buyers describe as “buttery soft” leather straps. The brand calls them a nod to the ‘90s, but I’m personally getting a mod, 1960s vibe—can’t you just picture Twiggy wearing them in a photo shoot? Either way, they’re easily one of the most unique examples of the silhouette currently on the market, and as another reviewer pointed out, can transition from day to night seamlessly. Oh, and did I mention they’re more than $260 off?
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 10
5. Arezzo Leather Ava Wedge Sandals
Arezzo
I’m loving the contrast between the sleek crisscross upper and earthy woven heels of these beauties, which feel equal parts flirty and elegant—not to mention practically made for strutting around a resort. The straps are made from genuine leather, so they should stretch a bit and mold to your foot over time. Otherwise, the brand states that the shoes are true to size (and since they come in half sizes, you should be able to nab your perfect fit).
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
6. Anthropologie Leather Wedge Flip-Flops
Anthropologie
You’ve seen a few iterations of kitten-wedge flip-flops on this list, but this Anthropologie pair, boasting both a leather upper and insole, stands out for its square toe and snakeskin design. Though you can wear ‘em with jorts for a dressed-up daytime look, the slip-ons are definitely worthy of a date night or drinks with the girls. Not sure if they’re comfy enough to hit the town? Take it from a reviewer who purchased this exact serpentine style: “I am not a big heels person but these are so fun. I feel wonderful in them—comfortable and sexy at the same time.”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 - 5.5 to 10 - 10.5
7. Cushionaire Brit Wedge Sandals
Cushionaire
One of the most highly rated shoe brands on Amazon, Cushionaire comes with the promise of comfort, primarily by way of its signature memory foam padding. These sandals are no exception. Combining the best of multiple worlds—beachy espadrilles, kitten slides and jelly shoes—they feature a playful plastic upper and a 2-inch, rope-wrapped wedge heel. They’re stylish, to say the least, but the real draw is that cushy, supportive footbed (though reviewers have also been pleasantly surprised by the soft stretch of the strap).
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 6 to 11W
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