When Y2K fashion made its triumphant return a few years ago, I had my reservations, but like most other people, I softened over time to a few of the era's trends. Case in point: clear PVC shoes. Brands like Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Amina Muaddi, and Magda Butrym brought wedge versions into the 2020s, breathing new life and interest into the long-outdated footwear style. As trends do, though, Y2K peaked and fell, and by now, most trends from the time have lost favor.
As for clear shoes, I was ready to ditch my pairs forever. In fact, up until a few hours ago, they were in a donation bag in my living room waiting to be picked up. It wasn't until I saw photos of Olivia Rodrigo's appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon last night that I began to think twice about giving the trend up for good.
On Olivia Rodrigo: Ludovic de Saint Sernin dress; Amina Muaddi Lupita Glass Wedge Sandals ($1105)
For the episode, Rodrigo chose a red minidress from Ludovic de Saint Sernin's S/S 25 collection (similar to the ones Laura Harrier and Ella Hunt wore at the 2024 Academy Museum Gala a few weeks ago) and a pair of clear PVC wedge sandals from Amina Muaddi. The combination just made sense, and with one look, Rodrigo's controversial heel choice began to feel timeless and classic rather than trendy.
On Kim Kardashian: vintage Mugler couture one-piece and coat; Tiffany Co. jewelry
When I started to dig into the shoe style and its presence in a post-Y2K fashion world, I noticed that Rodrigo isn't the only A-lister who's been hesitant to distance herself from clear footwear. Kim Kardashian was also recently seen in the silhouette alongside her vintage Mugler couture all-white lingerie look from the Academy Museum Gala. At an after-party following this year's Met Gala, Elle Fanning wore a pair by Aquazzura with her silver-sequin Balmain gown. Blake Lively donned Christian Louboutin PVC pumps in her September spread for Vogue. Elsa Hosk, Rihanna, and Jennifer Lopez have all dabbled in the trend this year too.
Clearly, PVC shoes aren't as "over" as I initially thought. If you're ready to give them another go, scroll down to shop today's chicest pairs.
-
If You Care About What Fall Sweater Trend It Girls Are Already Wearing, It's This '90s OneSpotted on Olivia Rodrigo in London.
-
Katie Holmes's Tip for Looking Rich? Lose the Flip-Flops and Wear These Classic Flats (in *This* Color) InsteadA shoe trend to take from summer to fall.
-
Bring On the Transitional Weather—29 Perfectly Chic Pieces FromReplica Store to Wear Straight Through FallEffortless dressing right this way.
-
7 Celeb Outfits That Prove You Can Look Stylish Even When It's SwelteringIf you're in a summer wardrobe rut, this is the inspiration you need.
-
This Shoe Color Trend Is Chicer Than Black, Burgundy, and BrownKaia Gerber agrees.
-
The Pretty Dress Trend L.A. It Girls Are Bringing Into Fall (and the "Basic" Style They Already Forgot About)It's finally time to part ways with boring linen dresses.
-
Experienced Shoppers Are Styling Cowboy Boots With This Specific Denim Trend to Make Them Look Less CostumeyTake a page out of Kendall Jenner's style book.
-
Apple Martin Wore the Skirt Trend That Screams "East-End Elite" in the HamptonsMy ideal vacation outfit.
