Why Wedges for Summer?
Over the past few seasons we’ve seen wedges reclaim their place on fashion’s front row. No longer just the province of holiday resorts, they’re now the go‑to heel for every summer outing. From jute‑wrapped espadrilles crossing festival fields to leather platforms under neon lights, designers have turned the wedge into a style icon.
Above all, wedges support a life in motion. We’ve seen them on Glastonbury’s VIP lawns and slipping into city‑centre cocktail bars. Natural materials like jute, raffia and linen anchor the look, while unexpected details (think Cornely embroidery or metallic hardware) satisfy the appetite for fresh touches. And this season, the wedge delivers every time.
The 12 Designer Wedges You’ll Wear Again and Again
Versace
Medusa 95mm White & Pink Leather Espadrille Wedges – £640
The white and pink leather upper is accented with the iconic Medusa head, while the 95mm jute-wrapped wedge offers a comfortable lift. Perfect for pairing with a flowy sundress at a beach barbecue or tailored shorts for a casual lunch.
Saint Laurent
Tribute 130mm Brown Leather Espadrille Wedges – £740
Saint Laurent’s Tribute line is synonymous with luxury, and these brown leather espadrilles are no exception. The interwoven straps and 130mm wedge create a stylish summery look.
Valentino Garavani
Rockstud 80mm Ivory Calfskin with Cornely Embroidery Wedge Sandals – £830
Valentino Garavani’s Rockstud collection is iconic, and these ivory calfskin wedges take it to new heights, literally. The 80mm wedge is adorned with the brand’s signature studs and intricate Cornely embroidery.
Stella McCartney
Beige Gaia Platform Espadrille Wedges – £560
Crafted from eco-friendly materials, these beige beauties could be paired with a maxi dress or cropped trousers. Ethical style?
Valentino Garavani
Beige Leather & Floral Embroidered Raffia Espadrille Wedges – £980
These raffia espadrilles combine beige leather with floral embroidery. The high wedge, wrapped in raffia, suits a beach holiday, paired with a kaftan or wide-leg trousers. It’s the kind of shoe you’d see at a Mediterranean villa.
Chloé
Maxime Pink Fizz Wedge Sandals – £825
Chloé’s Maxime wedges in pink fizz leather bring a vibrant edge, tapping into summer’s colour trend. The wedge height is ideal for a night out, matching a cocktail dress or jumpsuit.
Ralph Lauren Collection
Barlowe 110mm Lux Cream Espadrille Wedges – £610
Ralph Lauren’s Barlowe wedges in cream espadrille offer a classic summer look, with a 110mm wedge for added height. They pair with a polo shirt and skirt for a day at the races.
Ferragamo
Iconic 70mm Cognac Bow Wedge Sandals – £685
The bow detail adds a feminine touch, perfect for a summer wedding with a midi dress.
Jimmy Choo
Ayla 85mm Latte Leather Wedges – £675
These Ayla wedges in latte leather are ideal for a casual lunch, pair them with a denim skirt or tailored shorts, fitting the trend for neutral tones this season.
Saint Laurent
Tribute Black Espadrille Wedge Heels – £740
The 130mm height is perfect for a summer evening, add a blouse and trousers to aligning with the brand’s rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
Dolce & Gabbana
90mm Wedge Sandals with Multicolour Majolica Embroidery – £775
D&G’s wedges feature multicolour Majolica embroidery, inspired by Italian ceramics, on a 90mm wedge. Perfect for a garden party.
Jimmy Choo
Leda 100mm Tan Nappa Leather Mule Wedges – £595
Slip on these Leda wedges with a summer dress or tailored shorts for this season’s love for neutral, wearable styles.
How to Style This Season’s Designer Wedges
Go Tonal or Go Bold
Match nude and cream espadrilles with linen separates in oat, blush, or sand for a soft tonal effect. Or use vibrant pairs — think pink fizz or embroidered raffia — to punctuate an all-white or monochrome base. Either way, let the wedges lead.
Embrace Movement
Maxi skirts with side slits, cropped wide-leg trousers, and bias-cut dresses all show off the heel while keeping the silhouette fluid. Stiff denim or heavy layering can fight the relaxed feel — skip it.
Accessorise With Texture
Jute soles and raffia uppers already add depth, so lean into it with a straw tote, woven clutch, or a canvas crossbody. If you’re wearing sleek leather wedges, balance them with polished metal jewellery and slicked-back hair.
High-Low Dressing Works Here
These aren’t just for holiday looks. Team a statement wedge with a crisp shirt and sharp tailoring for a city-ready mood. Or play down high-glam pairs with a ribbed vest and relaxed shorts.
Nail the Pedicure
These shoes demand attention — and they will draw eyes downward. Soft white, classic red, or a toffee-toned neutral will always work. If the shoe’s the statement, keep toes subtle.
*Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
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