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Cast your mind back to childhood holidays and there, in your hazy, sun-kissed memory, will be at least someone wearing a pair of jelly sandals. Mine were silver with flecks of glitter that glinted in the sunshine. I felt the bee’s knees in them; they were sturdy, and, in my seven-year-old opinion, exquisite to look at. This nostalgia was not lost on the Olsen twins, who in 2024 introduced an adult version via The Row, turning these 90s plastic classics into desirable It shoes. Since then, Chloé and its princess-like peep-toe has cemented its status. The jelly sandal 2.0 is here; allow us to present the best.
The antithesis to quiet luxury, JELLY SANDALS ARE ALL ABOUT PLAYFULNESS. They’re a symbol of summer, holidays and fun, and are a great opportunity to EMBRACE BRIGHT, UNEXPECTED COLOURS. For the most varied options, head to Ancient Greek Sandals, whose jelly collection is full of bold, fresh versions that will take your outfit straight to VACATION MODE. If you can’t bring yourself to revert to your childhood footwear, then consider 2026’s EVOLVED VERSIONS – a ballet flat, peep-toe or wedge. Divisive they may be, but the JELLY SHOE HAS UNARGUABLY GONE VIRAL.
The big question is how to style them off the beach, without looking like a toddler. The trick is to ignore the material and think about the silhouette. All jellies work well with denim, creating an upbeat 90s energy. Thong and peep-toes look chic with a wide-leg linen trouser, and the chunky styles offset pretty summer dresses. Remember to buy a size and a half larger than usual, which allows for changes in your foot size throughout the day as the temperatures change.
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Lead image: Ganni x Melissa
Ella Alexander is Citizen Femme’s fashion features editor. She started her career at the Evening Standard, and has since held senior editorial roles at Vogue, The Independent and Harper’s Bazaar, where she remains a contributing editor. She also writes for The Telegraph, Sunday Times Style, Service95 and CNN. She is an author, having co-written Dame Zandra Rhodes’ memoir, Iconic: My Life In Fashion In 50 Objects, published by Transworld in July 2024. Her favourite travel destination is Catania, Sicily’s second city.
