At this point, every day feels synonymous with a new fashion trend. Whether it’s a resurgence or something entirely fresh, you can expect to see at least one hot topic du jour on your FYP each morning. In case you’ve been living under a rock, this month alone has brought an influx of trends redefining our shopping identity: bandage dresses (really the Hervé Léger dress), recession core, and the “New England Summer” aesthetic. And, as if we’re not already spending enough, there’s yet another trend tempting us to swipe our cards: jelly shoes.
Of course, jelly shoes are far from new. While the popular footwear style is undeniably equal parts chic and comfortable, it’s more than just a PVC shoe. The look originated post-World War II as a cost-effective alternative to shoes made from natural textiles such as leather and cotton. The first PVC shoe is believed to have been created by the French company Sarraizienne in the 1950s, often worn by fishermen due to their affordability and easy-to-clean design. By the ’80s, PVC footwear had evolved to the term “jelly shoes” when Tony Alano and Nicolas Guillon launched their company of the same name. Major fashion houses, such as Thierry Mugler and Jean Paul Gaultier, started incorporating the style into collections. (Gaultier even collaborated with jelly shoe icon Melissa in May 2023.) Celebrities like Taylor Swift and Rihanna have also embraced the trend, proving its staying power.
If you couldn’t tell, jelly shoes are back, and we’re here for it. Today’s versions go far beyond the fisherman sandal, with silhouettes ranging from ballet flats to platform heels featuring playful details like hearts. Whether you want to nail the TikTok fisherman aesthetic in a chic way or simply want another fun summer shoe, shop our curated guide of the best jelly shoes ahead.
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