Women’s wedges

Wedge shoes, boots, and sandals are trendy additions to a woman’s wardrobe. They can add interest and flair to your outfits. But all wedges were not created equal, and you need to be sure you’re buying a pair that you’ll want to wear. So before you bring them home, follow these tips to choose the right ones.

Why wedges?

Wedges function like heels in term of adding total height and lengthening the leg, but they provide the extra stability of a continuous sole. They can dress up or dress down an outfit, depending on the style you choose. You might want to choose a dressy wedge loafer if your work requires formal business attire but you are on your feet a lot, as wedges provide more arch support and can be more comfortable than traditional heels. They’re also a nice alternative to your old collection of pumps.

Wedge loafers

Regardless, wedges are a good compromise between heels and flats, and they can range from formal pumps to funky sneakers. Be careful not to confuse wedges with platform shoes – a wedge should have the same outer silhouette as a high heel and taper slightly towards the bottom of the heel.

Wedge boots

Boots with wedge heels are available in varieties to complement many different outfits. Ankle boots are particularly hot right now, and these wedges look great with tights and a dress or skirt. They can also be worn under slacks.

Ankle wedge boots

Another trend for this time of year is wedge boots that come up to the mid-calf or knee, worn outside jeans or pants. These boots vary in levels of formality: warmer boots like Uggs are trimmed with wool or fur and are more appropriate with jeans, whereas more formal boots in leather or suede can dress up an outfit.

Uggs wedge boots

Wedge pumps

The classic heeled pump gets a boost with a wedge heel. For the office, traditional pumps, open-toed shoes, or Mary Janes are available with wedge heels. A neutral-colored pair of these will be versatile enough to wear with most business attire. If you’re looking to add some pizazz to a nighttime look, wedge pumps are also available in some wild colors and prints. You can wear them with jeans, skirts, tights, or leggings. For an evening on the dance floor, they are a comfortable alternative to heels.

Orange wedge pumps

Wedge sandals

The summer is prime time for wedges! For a classic, beachy look, pair a floaty sundress with a woven wedge sandal. If your legs are short, stick with a mule or a slingback for a lengthening effect. If you’ve been graced with longer legs, you might want to try a pair of espadrilles with ribbons that lace up around your calf for a delicate, ballet-inspired style.

Lace-up espadrilles

These sandals also range in levels of formality; woven or canvas wedges are more casual, whereas strappy wedge sandals are more appropriate for a formal event. And for any formal occasion where you’re baring your toes, make sure you’re sporting a nice nail polish.

Wedge sneakers

For casual dressing, canvas wedge sneakers and slip-ons are available. These low-key styles are of course not as versatile as some dressier pumps, but they are cute and comfortable. Check out Keds for a variety of colorful, casual shoes with a bit of a wedge.

Keds wedges

Shopping for wedges

Most women’s shoe stores and shoe departments will feature the current season’s wedges. If you’d rather buy online, websites like Zappo’s and Piperlime provide a wide selection of many shoes, including wedges, at a range of prices. They also provide free return service if the shoes don’t fit, or even if you just don’t like how they look. If you’re stylistically adventurous, look to designers like Fendi, Gucci, and Prada for ideas about creative wedge materials and silhouettes. Premier designer wedges will cost several hundred dollars, but there are many more reasonable brands that provide quality at more affordable prices.

Fendi wedges

If you’re concerned about comfort, brands like Naturalizers have adopted trendy styles without sacrificing support. Check the sole of the shoe and consider your lifestyle; for a lot of walking, you’ll want a sturdy, rubber sole. For sandals, you’ll want to make sure that your heel stays firmly on the shoe throughout your stride.

Good luck, and enjoy your new wedges! Looking for other casual shoe options? Check out our guide to ballet flats.