Jelly shoes first gained popularity in the 1980s, thanks to their affordability and accessibility, making them a fashion staple for the masses. The trend briefly resurfaced in the ’90s, leaving many kids of that decade with fond memories of these quirky, colorful shoes.
Fast forward to today, and jelly shoes are making a bold comeback in mainstream fashion. While some may initially dismiss them as a nostalgic or juvenile fad, there’s no denying their charm when styled well.
With the right approach, jelly shoes can become a playful yet chic addition to your wardrobe. Take inspiration from the following bloggers who’ve effortlessly incorporated these fun and stylish sandals into their everyday looks.
1. Vintage Vibes: Sonia’s Pencil Skirt and Jelly Sandals Combo
Even though jelly shoes first became popular in the ’80s, you shouldn’t have a problem wearing them with ’50s- or ’60s-inspired outfits. Sonia Eryka’s colorful outfit cements that idea.
Her adorable blue jelly sandals work so well with her cobalt blue top (with its quirky robot print) and vintage-style pencil skirt. She even had a bright yellow raincoat on! It’s an eclectic look, but it exudes a modish vibe.
Sonia’s blue jelly sandals work well with her cobalt blue top
Styling tip: Wear jelly sandals with an above-the-knee pencil skirt and a quirky pullover. Don’t hesitate to try meshing or clashing colors.
Sonia rocks a bold and eclectic look with a vibrant yellow raincoat, quirky robot-print top, vintage-style pencil skirt, and bright blue jelly sandals for a playful retro vibe
2. Modern Chic: Amy’s High-Waist Skirt With Jelly Sandals
Jelly shoes work with the latest trends as well. Amy Valentine wore hers with a cropped shirt and a high-waist skirt. This ensemble has a skater-girl vibe that works for the summer season.
Styling tip: Clear jelly sandals go well with all colors, but you can opt for a monochrome ensemble like Amy’s shades of gray outfit.
Amy brings effortless summer vibes with her tie-dye cropped tee, striped high-waist skirt, statement bracelets, and clear jelly sandals for a fresh beachside look
3. Edgy and Eclectic: Zoe’s Distressed Shorts With Jelly Sandals
Avant-garde styling for everyday wear? Why not? Push the boundaries, and wear your jelly sandals with eclectic pieces. Go for something like Zoe’s peplum top paired with distressed shorts.
Styling tip: Wear socks with jelly sandals for a more eclectic look. Unfortunately, Zoe’s blog, Girl with the Flower, is no longer available online.
Zoe stuns in a whimsical lavender blouse, distressed denim shorts, pastel socks, and aqua jelly sandals, complete with a floral crown and statement accessories
4. Playful Pairing: Jackie’s Jelly Sandals and Ruffled Socks
Now that dungarees are very hot wear your jelly sandals with one. Pair them with an equally colorful top like Jackie from Sewing in Stilettos. She even wore ruffled socks with her sandals.
Styling tip: Wear bright-colored jelly sandals and allow the color to pop up against black pieces.
Jackie pairs her playful pink jelly sandals with a black dungaree dress, pastel blouse, and quirky socks for a chic yet nostalgic street style look
5. Casual Cool: Megan’s Rolled-Up Overalls and Jelly Shoes
Roll up your denim overalls, and then wear your jelly sandals! They’re a nice alternative to sneakers, ankle-strapped sandals, or oxford shoes. Like Megan Lois, you can wear socks with your pair.
Styling tip: Roll your denim overalls to the shin to show off your sandals.
Megan embraces vintage charm with rolled-up denim overalls, a striped peach blouse, silver jelly sandals, and a floral crown for a soft, boho-inspired look
6. Grunge Glam: Kayla’s Psychedelic Top and Transparent Jelly Shoes
Kayla Hadlington assembled an edgy and grungy ensemble consisting of a psychedelic-printed off-shoulder top, trendy shorts, a silver-colored belt, and transparent jelly sandals. Styling tip: Accentuate your glittery transparent sandals with silver accessories.
Kayla channels grunge glam with a psychedelic off-shoulder top, studded belt, edgy distressed shorts, oversized round sunglasses, and transparent jelly sandals for a bold statement look
If you’re loving the jelly shoe trend, explore how modern styles blend comfort and nostalgia in our feature on the iconic Melissa jelly shoes, a Brazilian brand known for elevating plastic footwear to high fashion.
Come up with your own stylish everyday ensemble with the following cute jelly shoes we found at Nasty Gal:
Edie Jelly Sandals, $48
Edie Jelly Sandals in Black, $48
Emma Jelly Sandals, $58
Emma Jelly Sandals in Lilac, $58
I hope the above bloggers have inspired you to start wearing jelly shoes. Experiment and break out of your comfort zone!