Few accessories epitomise millennial style like the wedged heel. The chunky, raffia-clad shoes (often adorned with tie-up ribbons that would snake up the calf) were a sartorial mainstay of 2010s fashion.
But, along with ‘Geek’ T-shirts, owl necklaces and neon, they were quickly ousted by Gen Z - in favour of feminine kitten heels that bid adieu to the bulky design of their heavyweight predecessors.
While classic wedges remain a staple for Ascot and British summertime weddings, they still failed to ignite the style set with fashion-induced fervour. That was until Dries Van Noten stepped up to the challenge, sending asymmetrical renditions down the runway for spring/summer 2025.
Snakeskin-printed, slip-on silhouettes dominated the Belgian designer’s runway, complemented by sheer plastic heels and clashing colourways.
© Gamma-Rapho via Getty ImagesBrands including Gucci, The Attico and Versace soon followed suit, taking to the drawing board to conjure up their own kooky takes on the once-shunned footwear mould. Naturally, the high street took note, offering affordable iterations of the scoliosis-inspired heel for all to enjoy.
They join the ranks of jelly shoes in channeling early Aughts nostalgia - reimagined through a whimsical, translucent lens that feels both playful and fashion-forward. Paired with a midi skirt and crisp tailoring, and the heels can transform the most pared-back outfits into a style statement that’s not to be missed.
Practical and sculptural, these futuristic shoes have become an unexpected break-out trend for summer. Discover our favourites below.
Best asymmetrical wedges to shop now:
Bulle 105 Patent Leather Mules
Dries Van Noten
Make a statement with a touch of patent. Dries Van Noten's avant-garde heels in a charming pink and chocolate colourway hail from the designer's SS25 collection. Complete with clear heels and a curved silhouette, these luxury shoes are set to turn heads wherever you walk.
Silver Gianni Ribbon Wedge Mules
Versace
Shimmy in silver with a helping hand from Versace. The brand's wedged mules are a futuristic fashion statement, complete with Y2K ribbon detailing, an open-toe, a clear upper and an unmissable metallic sheen.
Nina Sandal 105
Paris Texas
Amp up the colour with these vibrant pumps by Paris Texas. Showcasing a stunning sunset-hued heel topped with mirror-effect leather, the Italian-made shoes are for daring dressers only.
Cheope Suede Wedges
The Attico
Radiate sophistication with The Attico's suede slip-ons. Featuring a sharp point toe in an uber-wearable neutral hue, these heels perfectly marry timeless texture with a contemporary cut.
Asymmetric Heel Wedges
Stradivarius
Asymmetric heel wedges are one of the break-out trends of the summer. Get ahead of the curve with an affordable pair courtesy of high street hero Stradivarius - pocket-friendly and perfect for glamorous after-hours gallivanting.
Logo Leather Wedges
Gucci
Gucci’s sculptural burgundy wedges are a glossy ode to retro glamour. Crafted in Italy from leather with a sleek pointed toe, they feature gold-tone logo straps and an 11cm wedge heel - ideal for elevating both day-to-night tailoring and vintage denim.
Indie Wedge Sandal
Topshop
Futuristic fashion reaches new heights with Topshop's silver wedged heel. Affordable and elegant in equal measure, these thong-style heels are primed for partying the night away. Add a sequin skirt and a white tank top and you're good to go.
Trella Sandal
Jeffrey Campbell
Make a statement in mustard. With their fluid, sculpted design, almond toe shape, crisscross vamp straps and sunny palette, Jeffrey Campbell's Trella Sandals are set to captivate.
Wide-Strap Sculptural-Heel Wedges
Charles & Keith
Channel your inner Groovy Chick with Charles & Keith's chunky slip-on wedged heels. Available in two monochrome colourways, the pocket-friendly shoes neatly lean into nostaglic 90s dress codes. Add to bag with immediate effect.
How we chose:
- Style: We've selected an array of style-forward shoes featuring an asymmetrical wedged heel design.
- Price: As the kicks are coveted by the luxury sphere, most of the prices teeter on the more lavish side - with a few high street pieces thrown into the mix for all to enjoy.
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