If you are interested in a shoe that is both fashionable and comfortable, then Wedge shoes may be just what you are looking for. They are shoes or boots that have a single sole that has a appearance of a wedge all through the mid-section in addition to providing support that has been boosted up while helping the wearer in having a boosted height.

These shoes come in a range of types of design, type of color, and material, so wedges may be considered as multi-season shoes that can successfully complement virtually any kind of clothing. It is mainly worn by women though men also wear wedge sole shoes more specifically working boots. In this article, we’ll talk about the variety of wedge shoes and how you can incorporate them into your wardrobe in a fashionable and proper manner.

History of Wedge Shoes

Stilettos were initially made in 1930s, by an Italian known as Salvatore Ferragamo. The pioneer wedges had no heel part and emphasized on their foot supporting features as the small foot openings were secured by cellophane straps. It was only during the Second World War that due to scarcity of rubber and leather, the heel came to be made of wood and cork. The first wedge heel had a utilising a thick sole which was one piece unlike many high-heeled shoes of that period, which usually had a separate heel.

Wedge shoes were already popular in the early 1940s. Not only did they add a few inches, which were popular in the period, but many women claimed that it was easier to walk in them than thin heels. At this time, they came as tall as five inches high during the period that wedges were most prominent. A lot of ladies used them with shoulder pads to achieve the best figure possible.

EL’s wedge shoes were out of fashion until it resurfaced again in the 1970s. Men wore different fashionable and sexy platform wedges as well as the women did; the fashion trends increased in the outrageous styles. They were first seen back in the seventies, and again towards the end of the nineties. Platform sneakers remained in fashion with increased icons such as the Spice Girls wearing the shoe in clips and movies. Wedges reappared on the scene again in 2006, with heels tied with rope. Both flippy flop wedges and wedges that have straps or ankle holders became part of the summer essentials.

Nowadays wedge shoes remain frequently worn due to their practicality and comfort. Available in many designs, colors, lengths, and fabrics, they can be wore formally or casually. These come in different, styles, sizes and designs including the ever popular cork wedge, to the latest platform sneaker wedge.

Types of Wedges

For Women

When it comes to wedge shoes for women, there are many options available that cater to different styles and preferences. Here are some of the most popular types of wedges for women:

• Wedge Heels – These are a great alternative to traditional heels and offer even distribution at the sole, making them easier to balance in. They can make an outfit more formal like a classic heel.

• Wedge Pumps – These offer the glamorous look of pumps but with a blockier heel that creates a more conservative look.

• Wedge Sneakers – These are chic, comfortable, and can be leg-sculpting if worn regularly. They are a great way to give a basic outfit an edge.

• Wedge Boots/Booties – These offer more ankle support and stability than heels. They often contain embellishments like hardware and buckles.

• Closed-Toe Wedges – These provide more coverage than wedge sandals, making them a suitable option for the colder months of the year.

• Low Wedges – These have less height and are often considered a safer shoe option for people with weak ankles or those who do not need the extra lift.

• T-Strap Wedges – These are a popular summer shoe with a recognizable T-shape strap that runs from the toe area to the ankle.

• Ankle Strap Wedges – These feature a fabric strap or straps that wrap around the ankle for support and aesthetic appeal. These straps are often adjustable.

• Platform Wedges – These can enhance the style of any outfit and often contain decorative elements, such as printed fabrics, colored trim, ruffled material, or satin uppers.

For Men

There seem to be fewer options for wedges for men than there are for women but there are brands that can meet those needs. Here are some of the most popular types of wedges for men:

• Wedge Sole Work Boots – This comprises a sole that steps the length outsole without the presence of a space under the arch. These boots are not as rugged as some of the classic lug soles, though they are fit for most work settings. 

Whether you’re inclined towards the classics, the nouveau classics and the trendy handbags, there is a wedge shoe waiting to be grabbed. Therefore, to get a perfect pair of wedge shoes the occasion and the level of comfort should be considered.

How to Wear Wedges

Wedges are a type of shoe that can be worn for both formal events or casual occasions of any special event. For a less formal design, there is a low-heeled type of shoe – 1-2 inches wedge input that suits best jeans and t-shirt combination. To make a bolder statement, you can add more height, approximately between 2 and three inches but this should be comfortable.

As for combination of wedges with the dresses it is essential to select the proper type of them. That pair of strappy wedges can easily complement a bodycon dress, sundress, or your LBD. If you wish to vary a bit then you can prefer a skirt over a dress. Mini skirts are acceptable while the pencil skirts may be a little too thick.

Wedges are more appropriate when worn in the summer together with rompers and denim shorts. A T-strap or an ankle-wrap wedge complements these outfits well because the small wedges enhance the form-fitting nature of the rompers – this works well with denim shorts, where the height added by those wedges slim the legs down.

If you want them to look best and blend well with the clothes you are likely to wear, ensure you get wedges that match with them. Still, there are certain styles to which wedges are best matched with, or better avoided in general. Never wear trousers or skirts with straight and narrow legs to with wedges as it will not look good on you. Swimwear should be avoided; maxi skirts and shorts, boho’s, wrap dresses, gauchos, and broad or flared trousers are more already suitable.

Altogether, wedges are one of the perfect shoes that can garnish any dress. By so doing, you can go out and shop for wedges without feeling that it is a completely wrong decision because you can make some of these fashionable outfits.

Are Heels and Wedges the Same Thing?

Although heels and wedges may look similar, they are actually different types of footwear. The main difference between the two is the sole. High heel shoes have a separate heel that is not connected to the sole, creating a visible arch between the heel and toe. On the other hand, wedges have a continuous, solid wedge-shaped outsole that is elevated at the heel and tapers down to the toe. This design provides more stability and comfort compared to high heels, which can cause discomfort and instability due to the elevated arch.

What's the Difference Between Wedges and Platform Heels?

Lovers of footwear are well acquainted with such products as ‘wedges’ and ‘platform heels. But in fact, these two styles are very unlike. Wedge shoes have a heel that gradually slopes up front and back to give the wearer a good shoe and proper support. In contrast, platform heels also have a stiletto heel, but their sole’s thickness gives a lift in the front.

The primary distinction of wedges is that they have the high heels while the platforms are high at both ends. Additionally, wedges are a perfect model if you want to add variety but do not want to give up comfort. They provide the look of heels but feel like flats, and also have the potential to reduce the chronic health effects regular high heels cause.

It does not matter if you are searching for comfortable flat wedge shoes, or something in the semi-formal category, there are what you are looking for. Whether it’s the stilettos, sandals with straps, or the closed shoes with heels, you are very likely to get the best match. As for platform heels these are suitable if you are looking for slightly increased height without having to sacrifice comfort. These type of shoes are very comfortable and the thick sole designs makes them perfect for any kind of outfit.