Minimalist, elegant, and powerful: ’90s heels were that girl—a collective style—and they’re making a major comeback for 2026.
When we think of heel trends and shoe designs from that formidable, stylish decade, most of us immediately picture the classic kitten heel. But there are so many more options to choose from, in various silhouettes and vibes, ranging from ultra-minimalist to marvelously maximalist. Consider the iconic ’90s heels from major fashion houses: Chanel’s two-tone pumps, Miu Miu’s geometric, stacked loafers, and Prada’s Mary Janes. Today, all those nostalgic styles are being reinterpreted in a more contemporary way, making them feel fresh and essential.
While the spring 2026 runways featured avant-garde silhouettes—from Proenza Schouler’s bow heels to Bottega Veneta’s clogs and Balenciaga’s tough ballerinas—’90s styles still reigned supreme. And for good reason: they’re low-key sophisticated, add effortless interest to an outfit, and can either elevate a simple jeans-and-top look or add extra sex appeal to a mini-dress. It’s no wonder these styles were favorites of the top models of the era.
Of course, hunting for vintage pieces is a top priority, but there are also plenty of cool-girl brands offering their own fresh takes on ’90s stompers. Here are the six key heel trends shining this season.
6 Heels From the ’90s Making a Big Return in 2026
Two-Tone Pumps
Chanel spring/summer 1992.
Condé Nast Archive
The two-tone heel is back, thanks in part to Matthieu Blazy. In 1992, Chanel immortalized the iconic shoe in its spring collection, with Linda Evangelista opening the show in an elegant black-and-white pair—a style still worn on and off the runways today. Opt for classic triangle-toe silhouettes and style them faithfully with skirt suits, tailored pants, and dresses, or modernize them with straight-leg jeans.
Pointed, Heeled Mary Janes
Prada spring/summer 1994.
Photo: Condé Nast Archive
Mary Janes sometimes get a bad rap for appearing too schoolgirlish, but styled right, they’re endlessly feminine and chic. Take Prada’s sharp-toed and wedge styles, for example. Christy Turlington was a fan, and you’ll still spot them on the streets of Milan and Rome. The sophisticated design pairs perfectly with shift dresses and midi skirts, making it a versatile choice for day or night.
Heeled Colored Loafers
Gucci fall/winter 1995.
Photo: Condé Nast Archive
Nostalgia is the name of the game among shoe designers, but many are adding a modern edge. Last season, Gucci reinvented its iconic red Ancora loafers from the ’90s—the pair Helena Christensen wore in the fall 1995 show, featuring a square toe, golden equestrian buckle, chunky heel, and distinctive red jewel tone. This time, the platform is raised even higher for a more extreme look. Perfect for adding a glamorous twist to mini-dresses, micro-shorts, flared pants, and tiny skirts.
Heeled Mules
Marc Jacobs spring/summer 1998.
Condé Nast Archive
If one pair of heels screams ’90s, it’s the mule. This minimalist sandal has serious star power, worn by top models from Kate Moss to Cindy Crawford. It stands out for its versatility and timeless design.
Square-Toe Pumps with Heels
Miu Miu spring/summer 1999.
Condé Nast Archive
[Daisy Edgar-Jones]Make a style statement with on-trend ’90s square-toe shoes in January 2026.
Square-toe heels are a must-have: this infallible silhouette offers a sophisticated style with a masculine touch. Miu Miu, Prada, and Alexander McQueen have all created their own versions. Kendall Jenner, Rosalía, and Daisy Edgar-Jones are often spotted in square-toe styles, usually paired with elegant tailored pants or blue jeans.
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Mango square-toe pumps – $100 – Shop Now
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Alaïa 90 pumps – $1,450 – Shop Now
It’s impossible to discuss ’90s footwear without mentioning transparent heels. Equally loved and hated, they defined a distinct strand of minimalism that lasted until the mid-2000s. On his Spring/Summer 1999 runway, Chado Ralph Rucci presented a version with a wide heel, exposed toes, and a black sole. Today, brands like Vetements and Maison Margiela are bringing this sexy, sensual shoe back into the spotlight.
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Herbert Levine Rain Check 50 pumps – $875 – Shop Now
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Tory Burch clear pumps – $500 – Shop Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the 90s heels set for a major comeback in 2026 written in a natural conversational tone
General Beginner Questions
1 What exactly are 90s heels
Think of the iconic often chunky sometimes minimalist shoe styles that defined the decade Were talking about silhouettes like platform mules slingbacks with a block heel strappy Barbie sandals and thickheeled loafers
2 Why are 90s heels coming back in 2026
Fashion runs in roughly 30year cycles and the 90s aesthetic is having a huge moment After years of minimalist and chunky sneaker dominance theres a renewed desire for feminine confident and statementmaking footwear that still offers more stability than a stiletto
3 Im not into costume fashion How do I wear these without looking dated
The key is contrast Pair a chunky 90s heel with modern sleek pieces For example wear platform mules with wideleg tailored trousers and a simple tank or style a strappy sandal with a contemporary slip dress Avoid matching them with other full 90s outfits unless youre going for a specific look
4 Are 90s heels actually comfortable
Generally yesmuch more than youd think The block heels platforms and thicker bases provide better weight distribution and stability than skinny stilettos However breaking them in and choosing the right fit is still important
Style Practicality Questions
5 What are the top styles I should look for
Keep an eye out for these key 2026 trends
The Mule Especially a platform or blockheel version
The Slingback A classic heel with a strap around the back of the heel often with a square or block heel
The Kitten Heel A short slender heel thats elegant and easy to walk in
The Platform Sandal Multiple thin straps or a single wide strap over the foot on a substantial platform sole