How to Style Spring 2025’s Jelly Shoe Trend

Just in time for the warmer weather, jelly shoes are making a swift return this spring in fresh, new silhouettes. “If last season was inspired by The Row 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 the sold-out Fenty x Puma Cleat Jelly sandals in lime and pumpkin pie 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,” 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.”

When shopping for jelly shoes, the question of comfort will inevitably come up. Given that these styles are largely made from synthetic materials versus natural leathers and suedes, they won’t stretch over time or mold to your feet like a conventional loafer will. “Open back styles tend to be more forgiving than closed silhouettes,” says Mathur. She also advises considering going up a half size from your usual. This can accommodate changes in foot size throughout the day when temperatures change to ensure the fit is still comfortable, even after running around in them for 8+ hours.

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 easily enjoy them and seamlessly work 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.

With a Colorful Sock

Michella Oré

Come summer, clear jelly flats, like Tory Burch’s Mellow Mary Janes are going to be everywhere. The translucent material laying flush against sunkissed skin will instantly brighten up your outfits and your mood. In the meantime, if you’re looking to capture that same effect on an overcast spring morning, slip on a colorful sock. I tucked my jeans into a pair of lace-trimmed Calzedonia socks (similar pair here) to make the flats pop and create a DIY-peplum pant.

Tory Burch Mellow Mary Jane Jelly

Maria La Rosa Ribbed Bow-Embellished Crew Socks

Add a Throwback Anklet

Michella Oré

Lean into the early aughts even further with another fixture of the past: a chunky anklet. Vince’s cherry-chocolate Barcelona mules look great on their own, but a pastel accessory can further focus attention below the calf while also balancing out the rich shade. The best part? Anything can become an anklet, from a double-wrapped beaded necklace (I’m wearing Completedworks’ Depths of Time necklace) to a gold bracelet stacked with charms.

Vince Barcelona Jelly Slides

Completedworks Depths of Time Rose Quartz Necklace

Tie a Ribbon or Charm

michella ore wearing the old navy jelly lattice ballet flat

Michella Oré

Just like your favorite boat shoes, jelly shoes are the perfect canvas for colorful ribbons and statement charms. Several Bazaar editors are obsessed with Old Navy’s lattice cut ballet flats: “Perhaps, what’s more shocking than the price is the fact that these flats are comfortable,” says beauty director, Jenna Rosenstein. “I wore them for hours this past weekend as I chased my toddler around, and they held up so well. I am going to be wearing this for the entire summer, I’m sure.” While they look chic on their own, I found that stringing a bright blue ribbon through them with some miscellaneous baubles I had lying around was an easy and fun styling trick to make them feel uniquely my own.