Jelly Shoes Look Totally Different Now Than They Did in the Nineties

It feels like an understatement to say that jelly shoes are everywhere right now. (In fact, you must live under a fashion rock if you didn’t already know that.) The nostalgic material hasn’t seen a spike in popularity like this since the 90s, but what I’ve noticed? The jelly shoe styles trending in 2026 look a whole lot different than those of decades past.Though I am a studied fashion historian, I’ll save you the 2,000-word essay on the history of jelly shoes and give you the TL;DR on the current sitch. Out: chunky fisherman sandals with glittery finishes. In: vibrantly colored mules, transparent thong sandals, and tortoiseshell-patterned flats that feel way more grown-up. You with me?Jump to:Jelly Flip-FlopsJelly FlatsJelly MulesStrappy Jelly SandalsJelly Fisherman SandalsJelly Sneakers and LoafersWant a quick rundown of the buzziest jelly shoes of the season? I’ve got you covered, with everything from Puma’s controversial Monstro jelly sneakers to Melissa’s latest designer collab.Jelly Flip-FlopsJelly flip-flops are undoubtedly the easiest way to—pardon the pun—dip a toe into the trend. Thong sandals themselves are having a resurgence, so you’ll be tapping into two key summer looks at once. Plus, they’ll still make a practical choice for the pool after the current craze dies down.Jeffrey Campbell Beach Jelly Flip FlopsHavaianas Square Toe Jelly Flip-FlopDolce Vita Jozey Flip-FlopMadewell x Melissa Jelly Flip FlopsMelissa x Ganni Jelly Flip-FlopSteve Madden Tracie Jelly HeelsCredit: Steve MaddenJelly FlatsMesh ballet flats and Mary Janes are still trending—only this summer, they’re made from squishy PVC materials instead of understated nylon netting. The open weave provides ample airflow to your feet on hot days, and they wipe clean easily between wears. If you’ve scrolled through TikTok for summer fashion inspo, you’ve definitely seen styles akin to Steve Madden’s Grove Jelly Flats and Michael Kors’ Pixie Ballet Flats styled with baggy shorts and baby tees.Steve Madden Grove Jelly FlatNow 16% OffSam Edelman Michaela Jelly Mary-JaneIntentionally Blank Classy Jelly FlatDolce Vita Jam Ballet FlatMichael Kors Pixie Jelly Ballet FlatNow 45% OffJelly MulesThink of jelly mules—like Jeffrey Campbell’s Adorable Mary Janes—as a stylish alternative to rubber slides. They’re easy to slip into before a beach day, but they’ll look equally chic styled with a white midi skirt for dinner. For a classic slip-on style, opt for this plum-hued pair from Vince, but if you’re looking for something a little more playful, consider this clear pair from Kate Spade bedecked in charms.Kate Spade New York Jellyfish Charms Jelly MuleVince Barcelona Jelly FlatNow 51% OffMix No. 6 Kiahna Jelly MuleJeffrey Campbell Adorable Mary Jane Jelly MulesCredit: Dillard'sStrappy Jelly SandalsA strappy design adds a little oomph to the material without compromising its ability to be worn by the water. Throw them on with a sundress for brunch, then jean shorts and a bikini for an afternoon at the beach.Add Cosmopolitan as a preferred source in your Google search results.Use your Google account to add this to your settings.Splendid Sutton Jelly SandalNow 39% OffOld Navy Jelly SlideCrocs Miami Toe-Loop SandalDolce Vita Kenley Ankle-Strap Jelly SandalLarroudé Biarritz Jelly SandalNow 17% OffJelly Fisherman SandalsMelissa’s fisherman-style Possession Jelly Sandals were a true it-shoe in the ’90s—and seeing as Gucci just released a similar style, the throwback is getting a modern update. Steer clear of heeled styles; bright, transparent colorways and slim, flat silhouettes give the classic silhouette a modern feel.Melissa Possession Jelly SandalJ.Crew Fisherman Jelly SandalsLoeffler Randall Rhys Studded Jelly SandalNow 30% OffJelly Sneakers and LoafersLooking to get ahead of the trend curve? Jelly materials are beginning to make their way into other footwear categories, such as sneakers and loafers. This summer, Sperry is offering colorful PVC versions of its beloved boat shoes, and Puma, Merrell, and Nike have reimagined signature sneakers in jelly-shoe-inspired materials.Puma Mostro Jelly SneakerSperry x Monse Jelly Boat ShoeNow 38% OffNike Rejuven8 OG SP Jel SneakerMerrell Moab 3 Jelly SneakerNow 25% OffSarah Maberry is a shopping editor at Hearst Magazines, covering fashion, beauty and pop culture. As a trend forecaster and fashion historian, she analyzes viral products and trends on a deeper level, helping readers find the best deals, gifts, and celebrity-worn items. When she’s not writing for ELLE, Harper’s BAZAAR, Town & Country, Esquire, Cosmopolitan and other publications, she can be found roaming the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (her alma mater) or sewing her own couture while she binge-watches reality TV.