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Amina Muaddi, and Magda Butrym brought wedge versions into the 2020s, breathing new life and interest into the long-outdated footwear style.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.
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Spotted at JFK Airport: The Only Boot Trend TSA Won't Give You Side-Eye for WearingComfortable, stylish, and most importantly, functional.
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From L.A. to Paris, It Girls Are Swapping Their Classic Ballet Flats for This Elevated AltRightfully so.
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So *This* Is the Evening Bag Color Everyone Should Be Wearing With Black GownsPerfect for spring.
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It's Back: The Humble Sandal Trend That New Yorkers Love to HateSpotted in L.A.
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I Give It a Week Before Everyone With Taste Is Wearing This Elegant Pant TrendDon't take it from me—take it from Hailey Bieber.
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This Is Your Last Chance to Shop the Amazon Big Spring Sale—31 Chic Finds Not to MissSo good even Levi's jeans are on sale.
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Rich-Looking Outfits Are the Goal—31 Chic Pieces From the Amazon Big Spring Sale That Fit the BillThese will have you doing a double take.
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Calling It Early: This Will Be Summer's Biggest Sandal TrendEasy, breezy.
