3 min readJust in time for the warmer weather, jelly shoes are making a return this spring in fresh new silhouettes. “If last season was inspired by the Row’s cage sandal, this season we are seeing a much broader interpretation of the jelly sandal, from kitten-heel thong sandals to ballet flats, and in fabrications that give them a jelly-sandal feel, such as crochet,” says Divya Mathur, chief merchandising officer & fashion director at Revolve.
While the classic fisherman sandal remains a favorite, the arrival of fashion-forward designs in bolder, brighter colorways, like Chloé’s Jelly Cone Mules, are perfect for taking your spring outfits to the next level without spending a fortune. “This is a great place to lean into an unexpected color, and at a much more affordable price point” than a leather or suede shoe, says Mathur. “I’m wearing a powder blue or bright yellow jelly sandal with all of my summer neutrals, from pretty white dresses to various shades of brown.”
Chloé Spring/Summer 2026
When shopping for jelly shoes, the question of comfort will inevitably come up. Given that these styles are largely made from synthetic materials, they won’t stretch over time or mold to your feet like a conventional loafer or ballet flat. “Open-back styles tend to be more forgiving than closed silhouettes,” says Mathur. She also advises considering going up a half size from usual. This can accommodate changes in foot size throughout the day as temperatures change to ensure the fit is still comfortable even after you’ve been running around in them for eight hours or more.
If the past year has shown us anything, it’s that jelly shoes are no longer just a playful twist on your favorite childhood style. Grown women can—and should—enjoy them, seamlessly working the range of sleek jelly mules, thong sandals, and ballet flats into their everyday wardrobes. Below, we share some tips on how to style some of our favorite pairs this spring.
For Weekend Brunching
Come summer, clear jelly sandals, like Ancient Greek Sandal’s Etheria Wedges, are going to be everywhere. The translucent material laying flush against sun-kissed skin looks especially chic with an all-white look. To wear them now, just toss on a colorful mac coat to make sure your outfit is ready for spring showers.
Banana Republic
Water-Resistant Mac Coat
rag & bone Kelley T-Shirt
Lisa Eisner
Hashi Tassel Necklace
Cos
Elasticated Pants
Ancient Greek Sandals
Etheria Wedges
For the 9-to-5 Grind
Who says you can’t wear jellies to the office? Dress up translucent footwear with tailored outerwear, like this boxy windbreaker from Massimo Dutti, and a crisp poplin skirt. Throw in a dash of pink by way of a lightweight knit to brighten the overall look.
Zara
Ribbed Knit Sweater
Massimo Dutti Puff Park
Gap
Poplin Handkerchief Skirt
Now 41% Off
Melissa Possession Sandals
Gucci Jackie Shoulder Bag
For a Night Out
If there were a shoe that best captured the spirit of letting loose, it would be the jelly mule. It’s fun, flirty and perfect for slipping on under extra large, billowy trousers that were made to be seen. Add a silky camisole on top to balance everything out, finishing with an oversized bomber in soft suede.
Intimissimi Lace and Silk Top
Matteau
Fisherman Pants
Phoebe Philo
Sterling Silver Earrings
For the Color Maximalist
Cerulean, poppy red, chartreuse—primary colors are back this season and punchier than ever. The best part? They naturally compliment each other, making styling surprisingly easy. To ground all this color, a black jelly flat and cream-colored handbag will do the trick.
Alex Striped Rollneck
J.Crew
Jules Shirt
Polo Ralph Lauren
Ribbed Poplin Skirt
Tory Burch Mellow Mary Jane Jelly
Balenciaga Bel Air Shoulder Bag
For the Monochrome Loyalist
If you prefer a simple uniform that can translate from day to night and never fails to look fresh, a jelly thong is an easy way to keep the look from looking too matchy matchy. Consider a head-to-toe denim look with a pair of clear slides, finished with some Western-inspired accent pieces.
Citizens of Humanity Cropped Western Shirt
Citizens of Humanity Blaine Vintage Straight
Julietta x Moda Operandi Sabine Cuff
Valentino
Nellcote Tote
BLACK SUEDE STUDIO Crystal Flip Flop
Shop More Spring Wardrobe Essentials
• The Best Spring Dress Trends Take a New Approach to Femininity
• A Windbreaker Somehow Goes With Every Outfit
•These Spring 2026 Bag Trends Will Give You the Shoppies
Why Trust Harper’s Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.