Vogue Traces 1990s Sandal Trends Still Dominating Fashion

A Vogue article argues that the most pervasive sandal trends of today were born in the 1990s, citing specific designers, celebrities, and runway moments. The strappy sandal, favored by Miuccia Prada and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, emerged in the mid-to-late '90s with a pared-back approach from Tom Ford at Gucci and Manolo Blahnik. The thong heeled sandal was a runway mainstay at Prada, Helmut Lang, Michael Kors, and Calvin Klein, worn by Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, and Gisele Bündchen, and now by Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner. The flip-flop, rooted in casual beachwear, gained runway presence at Jil Sander (spring 1994) and Calvin Klein (spring 1997), popularized by Jennifer Aniston and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen; brands like Toteme, The Row, and Ancient Greek Sandals continue the style. The open-toed heeled mule, associated with Carrie Bradshaw and Kate Moss, was defined by John Galliano's Dior, Narciso Rodriguez, and Manolo Blahnik. The flat sandal was incorporated by Helmut Lang and Jil Sander for understated luxury. The barely-there sandal, epitomized by Carrie Bradshaw and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, remains popular. The article highlights that these silhouettes have outlasted nearly every shoe trend since, proving their enduring relevance.