The Refreshing Joy of Jelly Shoes

Footwear can say a lot about a person. If you reliably reach for practical sneakers, you might have a taste for dad dressing. If mesh flats are more your jam, you likely have a knack for infusing sensuality into your outfits. And this summer, if you wholeheartedly embrace the return of jelly shoes, you have joie de vivre.

You see, the ‘90s and 2000s style — in all its translucent, colourful artificiality — is dripping with playful nostalgia. In the realm of odd footwear releases, it’s undeniably the most fun. (What other shoe is often scented with a yummy fruity aroma?) Associated with Y2K futurism and over-accessorizing, it’s the shoe that doesn’t take itself too seriously. And though it’s been deemed “ugly” in recent years, the zeitgeist is gearing up for a new era of gelatinous slides.

In 2022, Brazilian brand Melissa introduced a line of throwback jelly shoes. Then, colourful Fisherman-style offerings were front and centre at Coach’s Spring 2023 show. The comeback was further cemented last September, when The Row presented fishnet rubbery flats for its pre-fall 2024 collection. And with a constant co-sign from Jennifer Lawrence on street style outings, the footwear choice has undergone a fresh aesthetic appeal.

Why are jelly shoes back now?

Love them or hate them, the unconventional shoes have a certain free-flowing symbolism. By abandoning the confines of traditional opaque footwear, the wearer appears endearingly ungrounded and less bogged down by the weight of reality.

There’s also a vivacious quirkiness to jelly shoes. They seem better suited for a playful prance than a regular walk down the street. Along with bubble hems, they challenge us to abandon preconceived notions about clothes and just let loose. From the squelchy sound they make as you step to the evocation of Jell-O (a middle school delicacy!), there’s a child-like whimsy wrapped up in these rubber slides. In a time when so much feels heavy, eccentrically adorning your feet is a welcome reprieve from the everyday.

In 2024, they’re proving to be surprisingly versatile. As The Row’s release proves, they add a punch of personal style to otherwise refined ensembles. With their durable make, they can withstand uneven terrain and offer waterproof protection. On top of all this, they’re simply very silly. And we could all do with a bit more of that.

Below, the best jelly shoes to buy now

Iro jelly ballerina shoes

To dip your toe into the trend, try Iro’s beige ballerina flats. With a 100 per cent rubber fabrication, an intricate caged design and a chic round toe sillhouette, they’re both durable and sophisticated. Plus, the subtle chunky base adds a 2024 appeal.

Jeffrey Campbell Jamie jelly flats

Not ready to go full-on see-through? Jeffrey Campbell’s opaque jelly flats bring the jelly feel with a modern matte finish. The red design is perforated with diamond cutouts for an eye-catching statement, while the a easy slip-on fit makes for everyday wearability. For optimal experimentation, pair with ruffled ankle socks and boxer shorts.

Heavenly Jelly women’s flats

With a traditional square-toe silhouette, these clear jelly slides reimagine the look of loafers. Marked by tiny square designs, they bring a textural intrigue to jelly shoe softness. Featuring cushion-like soles designed for prolonged wear, these slip-on slides can take you from the beach to dinner.

Ancient Greek Sandals Homeria jelly sandal

Made in Greece, these platform sandals embody the region’s age-old style with a contemporary twist. Featuring a polished clear upper and a black block base, this design stands out for its eye-catching contrast. Finished with a wing-shaped gold buckle, these glossy shoes have day-to-night versatility.

The Row Mara flats

The Row’s take on jelly shoes, the Mara flat, appears at first out of place amid the brands tonal, too-cool aesthetic. But as viral reception to the shoe proved, these jovial flats sing when paired with unexpected pieces like minimal black coats and logo-less bags. They are without a doubt the newest quiet luxury player.

Mango Glitter Crab ballerina shoes

Bedazzled, flat, and full of jelly juiciness, Mango’s glitter shoes put a casual summer spin on classic gold accessorizing. Complete with back and front tear drop cut-outs, they are breathable and durable for peak heat days. Pair with your favourite crochet pieces for a beachy Boho finish.

Melissa Women’s Possession scented Sandals

As the self-proclaimed creator of the jelly shoe in the 1970s, Melissa has a wide offering of the sheer shoe. This design, with its iridescent hue, brings futuristic newness to nostalgic design. Made of recyclable and cruelty-free PVC, it’s waterproof, easily adjustable and complete with an ultra soft footbed. Plus, this design smells like bubblegum.

Ferragamo Vara 30mm bow-detail jelly pumps

Offering an opaque take on the trend, Ferragamo’s shiny black pumps have the squishy jelly feel with a little more protection. Made of 100 per cent rubber, they offer a distinctly collegiate aesthetic with their round-toe shape, chunky pump and prim bow detail. They’re the perfect pick if you want to add some bounce to your step, but you’re not ready to go translucent.

Hee Grand mules

Consider upping the ante with these elevated jelly shoes. Hee Grand’s mules bring a block heel to the classic Fisherman sandal design. The grippable soles protect against slipping and sliding, while the adjustable buckle promises to keep your foot secure. Waterproof and durable, these shoes are a year-round staple. When the weather turns, they are the best (and kookiest) shoe to complement colourful tights.