ODE TO A WEDGIE: So Many Reasons to Love Summer’s Cutest Shoe
By Bonny Osterhage/ via WhiteApricot.com
How do we love thee, wedge heel? Let us count the ways. You are casual, yet classic. You are comfortable, yet chic. You jazz up our shorts, skirts and dresses. You are a step up from our flip-flops, yet a step down from out strappies. You give us height without a teetering stiletto. You have been around for decades, yet you continue to be relevant. Best of all, you have been reinvented in eco fashion materials, which gives is one more reason to sing your praises!
Beyond Skin Sunny
One look at these bright and colorful vegan wedgies and it is clear where they came up the name. Cute cutouts and overlays allow feet to breathe, while the sling back makes legs look a mile long. Top is faux patent leather and wedge is covered in organic cotton. Adorable with a flirty sundress or skirt. $250 at www.endless.com.
Cri de Cour Stella Cutout Cage Wedge
For those who don’t think the wedge can be sexy, check out this faux patent snake print style. Unlike the sexy stiletto, this is one shoe that can dance ’til dawn and still leave feet feeling fine, thanks to the straps that fit to the form of your foot, and the comfy cork heel made with a touch of sparkle just for fun. $240 at www.cridecoeur.com
Madden Girl Vegan Fashion Peep-Toe Espadrille
Ah, the espadrille. If you are a child of the 80s, there is a good chance you may still own a kelly green pair of this classic. Pretty in pink and white, this vegan version is playfully preppy with an adorable cherry print lining. Also available in black. $54.45 at www.vegan chic.com.
Melissa Kali II Bow Wedge
Who knew Minnie Mouse recycled? Seriously, we think these candy apple red wedges are fabulous, tiny bow and all! Made from Melissa’s signature recycled and recyclable plastic, wear them when you want to get noticed. They also come in black for when you don’t! $120 at www.tobi.com.
Mohop High Walnut Wedge Sandal
How about a made-to-order wedgie? That’s just what you’ll find at Mohop, where you can choose from low, medium, or high wedge shoes, made from the wood of sustainably managed forests. High on comfort and style, these shoes feature an ergonomically contoured padded footbed, and a sole made from natural rubber and rice husks. Each pair comes with five sets of ribbon with tying instructions. Because they are handmade to order, allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Quite unique! $146-$158 at www.mohop.com.
Olsen Haus Berlin 2
These metallic stunners will add a sparkle to your step! The faux leather and woven metallic fabric is what make this otherwise simple style shine. Perfect for jazzing up an office staple like the pencil skirt or with rolled up kahkis for a girl’s night out. $220 at www.olsenhaus.com.
Stella McCartney Linda Wedge Sandal
Killing two trends with one shoe, this adorably casual sandal from Stella combines military chic with the cork wedge. It’s the ideal footwear for that “rolled up cargo pant” look. The rubber heel makes these ultra suede shoes ultra comfortable to wear. ON SALE FOR $299 (normally $495) at www.stellamccartney.com.
Zoe and Zac Daylily Wedge Slingback
This black and white wedge proves that eco friendly can also be wallet friendly. Green through and through, from the organic canvas uppers to the recycled rubber outsole, it’s a smart looking shoe that we think is a smart way to embrace the trend without investing in it. $26.99 at www.payless.com.
We heart White Apricot for tips on eco fashion, organic skin care, natural cosmetics, and socially conscious products. Peep ’em here: www.whiteapricot.com (update: site now defunct)
ODE TO A WEDGIE: So Many Reasons to Love Summer’s Cutest Shoe