When Y2K fashion made its triumphant return a few years ago, I had my reservations, but like most other people, I softened over time to a few of the era's trends. Case in point: clear PVC shoes. Brands like Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Amina Muaddi, and Magda Butrym brought wedge versions into the 2020s, breathing new life and interest into the long-outdated footwear style. As trends do, though, Y2K peaked and fell, and by now, most trends from the time have lost favor.
As for clear shoes, I was ready to ditch my pairs forever. In fact, up until a few hours ago, they were in a donation bag in my living room waiting to be picked up. It wasn't until I saw photos of Olivia Rodrigo's appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon last night that I began to think twice about giving the trend up for good.
On Olivia Rodrigo: Ludovic de Saint Sernin dress; Amina Muaddi Lupita Glass Wedge Sandals ($1105)
For the episode, Rodrigo chose a red minidress from Ludovic de Saint Sernin's S/S 25 collection (similar to the ones Laura Harrier and Ella Hunt wore at the 2024 Academy Museum Gala a few weeks ago) and a pair of clear PVC wedge sandals from Amina Muaddi. The combination just made sense, and with one look, Rodrigo's controversial heel choice began to feel timeless and classic rather than trendy.
On Kim Kardashian: vintage Mugler couture one-piece and coat; Tiffany & Co. jewelry
When I started to dig into the shoe style and its presence in a post-Y2K fashion world, I noticed that Rodrigo isn't the only A-lister who's been hesitant to distance herself from clear footwear. Kim Kardashian was also recently seen in the silhouette alongside her vintage Mugler couture all-white lingerie look from the Academy Museum Gala. At an after-party following this year's Met Gala, Elle Fanning wore a pair by Aquazzura with her silver-sequin Balmain gown. Blake Lively donned Christian Louboutin PVC pumps in her September spread for Vogue. Elsa Hosk, Rihanna, and Jennifer Lopez have all dabbled in the trend this year too.
Clearly, PVC shoes aren't as "over" as I initially thought. If you're ready to give them another go, scroll down to shop today's chicest pairs.
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If You Only Have $200, These Nordstrom Shoes, Handbags, and Accessories Will Get You Endless ComplimentsEverything included is on sale too.
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Laura Harrier Wore a Thong-Baring Sheer Dress to the Academy Museum Gala After-PartyThe daring '90s dress of every fashion girl's dreams.
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It's Here: The It-Girl Skirt Trend to Wear With Kitten Heels This FallBonus points if you wear it in yellow.
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Elsa Hosk is My Ultimate Fall Style Muse—7 Trends I'm Stealing From HerPlus, where I'm buying them.
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Sofia Richie Grainge Is Pregnant, and She Shared the News in the SRG Jacket I Know Will Sell Out FirstI give it until November 1.
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Click Here for Proof That This Sophisticated Shoe Color Works With Both Jeans and DressesVersatile and chic.
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Bella Hadid Just Put a Sexy Spin on the Runway Trend You'll See Everywhere in 2026Leave it to Hadid and Victoria's Secret Creative Director Adam Selman to reimagine a major ready-to-wear runway trend.
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Sorry, Thongs—Gigi Hadid Just Brought Back This "Dated" Rival at the Victoria's Secret Fashion ShowUnderwear lines and all.
