E! illustration/Steve Madden, DKNY
Jelly shoes are officially one of summer 2026’s most unexpected trends—and if you’re staring at them wondering how they suddenly became fashionable again, same.
The last time many of us saw them was paired with butterfly clips and playground recess outfits, which makes the comeback feel equal parts nostalgic and confusing. But Kohl’s Trend Expert Lilly Sisto says the modern version is all about styling, not memory.
“What makes jelly shoes feel current again is how they’re being styled,” she explains to E!. Instead of leaning into the early-2000s vibe, Sisto treats them like a texture moment—something glossy and playful that works best when grounded with matte, structured fabrics like denim or linen. That contrast, she says, is what makes the look feel intentional.
For everyday outfits, she keeps it easy: “A great pair of jeans, a white tee, maybe an oversized button-down… adding jelly sandals instantly makes it feel more styled without trying too hard.” It’s the kind of formula that works whether you’re running errands or heading to brunch.
When it comes to dressier moments, jelly flats and Mary Janes feel slightly more polished, while jelly heels can surprisingly work for night. Paired with a sleek dress and minimal accessories, they become the unexpected statement piece that still feels wearable.
The bottom line? Keep it simple, let the shoes do the work, and suddenly jelly shoes feel less like a throwback—and more like a trend worth trying.
"Honestly, the simplest outfits are the best. A great pair of jeans, a white tee, maybe an oversized button-down all from Kohl’s, and then adding jelly sandals instantly makes it feel more styled. It’s an easy way to make a basic outfit a little more interesting without trying too hard."
For a fun splash of color, these pink jelly flats check every box—affordable at under $45 and also available in neutral tones for a more subtle take on the Y2K trend.
A stylist-approved favorite, these barrel jeans offer a relaxed, flattering fit in three denim washes (plus, they’re incredibly comfortable).
"I always think contrast is key. My style leans pretty classic, so I like pairing jelly shoes with tailored pieces, like a linen set or a structured dress. It balances the playfulness of the shoe and makes the whole look feel more elevated. I’ve been loving some of the more refined jelly styles from Kohl’s, especially this Nine West pair."
Minimal with a touch of gold, these jelly sandals feel polished without trying too hard. It’s no surprise they’ve earned stylist-approved status for the season.
When summer rolls around, white denim is always in rotation. That’s exactly why Sisto chose this shift dress for a more tailored, polished update to the lineup.
"Jelly sandals feel the most casual to me, so I love them with denim or easy summer dresses, or at the beach with a bikini..."
If you’re leaning into the green trend for 2026, these DKNY celadon jelly flats are a must, featuring a classic Mary Jane shape with adjustable straps that shoppers say feel incredibly comfy.
This V-neck tankini leans into retro charm with its green and yellow striped design. It’s also thoughtfully cut to flatter bigger busts with a supportive, confidence-boosting fit.
"Jelly flats or Mary Janes can skew a little more polished, especially with trousers or a skirt. And then a jelly heel is fun for the night. It feels unexpected but still really wearable."
Featuring a round-toe mule design, these monochromatic slip-ons work with just about any outfit—even your office rotation. Thanks to stylist Lilly Sisto, they’re officially on our radar.
When it comes to office trousers, a wide-leg fit never misses. They’re comfortable, breathable for warmer days, and come in short, average, and long lengths for the right fit.
"Yes, but I would keep everything else really refined. A simple black dress or something silky, minimal jewelry, clean hair, and then the jelly heel becomes the statement. It is subtle but still a little playful."
These translucent thong heels tap into the trend with fun color options plus leather and suede finishes. Shoppers are already calling them a “sexy summer sandal.”
You can always count on a little black dress for a night out. Add statement jewelry and jelly sandals to bring the look together.
"Texture is such an underrated styling tool and a trend I spoke to as a Kohl’s Trend Expert. Jellies have that glossy, almost translucent finish, so pairing them with something matte like linen, like this skirt from Sonoma Goods for Life, or structured like denim creates a really nice contrast. It makes the outfit feel more layered without adding anything complicated."
The Dolce Vita Ginna jelly flat takes the stress out of getting dressed, offering a sleek slip-on silhouette, an airy woven jelly design, and a versatile feel that works from errands to the pool.
No summer wardrobe feels complete without a linen staple, and this flowy, stylist-approved skirt earns its spot. With endless styling options, it’s one you’ll reach for on the hottest days.
Looking for more fashion advice? We spoke to another stylist about how to style white jeans this summer.
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