When Y2K fashion made its triumphant return a few years ago, I was resistant, but like most people, I’ve grown accustomed to some of the trends of the era over time. Case in point: clear PVC shoes. Brands like Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Amina Muaddi, and Magda Butrym introduced wedge versions in the 2020s, breathing new life and interest into a long-outdated shoe style. But like all trends, Y2K has peaked and fallen, and most trends from that time have now lost support.
As for the transparent shoes, I was already planning on getting rid of the shoes I was wearing forever. In fact, until a few hours ago, they were sitting in my living room in donation bags waiting to be picked up. It wasn’t until I saw the photo of Olivia Rodrigo appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon last night that I started thinking again about abandoning this trend for good.
(Image credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC, Getty Images)
About Olivia Rodrigo: Ludovic de Saint Sernin dress. Amina Muaddi Lupita Glass Wedge Sandals ($1105)
Amina Muaddi
lupita glass wedge sandals
In this episode, Rodrigo wears a red minidress from Ludovic de Saint Sernin’s Spring/Summer ’25 collection (similar to the one worn by Laura Harrier and Ella Hunt at the 2024 Academy Museum Gala a few weeks ago) ) and transparent PVC wedge sandals. Amina Mouadi. The pairing just made sense, and at first glance, Rodrigo’s controversial heel choice started to feel less trendy and more like a timeless classic.
About Kim Kardashian: Vintage Mugler Couture dresses and coats. tiffany jewelry
When I started digging deeper into this shoe style and its presence in the post-Y2K fashion world, I realized that Rodrigo wasn’t the only A-lister who was hesitant to distance himself from transparent shoes. Kim Kardashian also recently appeared in silhouette alongside vintage Mugler Couture all-white lingerie at the Academy Museum Gala. At this year’s Met Gala after-party, Elle Fanning wore a silver sequin Balmain dress with a pair of Aquazzura. Blake Lively wore Christian Louboutin PVC pumps in Vogue magazine’s September spread. Elsa Hosk, Rihanna, and Jennifer Lopez are also dabbling in the trend this year.
Clearly, PVC shoes aren’t as “dead” as I originally thought. When you’re ready to give it another try, scroll down to shop today’s chicest pairs.
steve madden
reveal clear
Amina Muaddi
alexa pvc sandals
Larude
Vivi Lucite Hi Mule Silver Specchio
Alaia
Coeur 55 PVC & patent leather mules
Amina Muaddi
Holli clear slingback pumps
Gianvito Rossi
Elle 85 PVC & patent leather mules
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olivia rodrigo
