While summer is still in full swing, Kendall Jenner is already thinking about fall. The model's latest outing has revealed the shoe that will dominate September wardrobes. Spotted in Los Angeles, she gave the fashion world a clear preview of the season's defining footwear trend.
Kendall Jenner's Fall 2026 Shoe of Choice
A few days ago, Kendall Jenner was photographed in Los Angeles as she met up with Hailey Bieber before heading to a concert by their friend Justine Skye. For the occasion, the model stayed true to her minimalist and elegant aesthetic. She wore a black baby tee, loose blue jeans, and a brown bowling bag. The deliberately simple silhouette was elevated by a pair of black wedge-heel pumps: the Liisa Pumps from The Row.
The shoe stands out for its particularly elongated toe and, above all, its curved wedge heel, slightly tilted inward. These two details completely transform the line of the pump, giving it a distinctly retro feel. One might almost think it came straight from a 1960s boutique, except that it displays a modern interpretation. Worn with such a basic outfit, the pair immediately becomes the focal point of the look and alone proves its full fashion potential. It is enough to make us seriously want to adopt the wedge pump for the fall term.
The Wedge Heel's Comeback
In 2026, the wedge heel is marking a true return to grace. Gradually, it seems to be overtaking stiletto heels and kitten heels, with one major argument: it allows you to gain a few centimeters without completely sacrificing comfort. This summer, wedge sandals and flip-flops made a strong comeback, and they should no doubt continue to establish themselves next summer. But there is no question of saying goodbye when fall arrives; the wedge heel is now making its mark on closed shoes. This is already evident in the new collections of luxury houses and ready-to-wear brands.
For fall, two interpretations stand out: the classic wedge heel and its bolder version, with a curved heel. At Louis Vuitton, the focus is on a black model with a very high wedge heel, as graphic as it is elegant, which seems perfect for an oversized suit. Loro Piana imagines a brown version with an almond toe and subtly inclined heel, ideal with a satin skirt and a white baby tee for a very chic office silhouette. At Reformation, the patent leather version with a strap adds a twist to a leather skirt and shirt, while Massimo Dutti offers a mule with a very elongated toe, perfect with straight jeans and a tank top.
The History of the Wedge Heel
To understand why Kendall Jenner's choice is so significant, it helps to look at the wedge heel's history. While the exact origin is debated, the wedge heel as we know it rose to prominence in the 1930s. It is believed to have been inspired by European platform shoes, and designers such as Salvatore Ferragamo popularized it as a sophisticated and practical alternative to the traditional high heel. The wedge heel became a symbol of modern femininity, especially in the United States and Europe, where it was championed by actresses and socialites.
In the 1960s, the wedge heel took on a more playful and futuristic look, particularly with the rise of space-age fashion. Then, in the 1970s, it became a staple of disco and bohemian style, often seen on sandals and boots. The 1990s and 2000s saw wedge heels re-emerge through brands like Gucci and Miu Miu, usually in the form of espadrilles or massive platform wedges. But in the 2010s, the trend faded as sleek stilettos and block heels took over.
Now, in the mid-2020s, the wedge heel is being reintroduced with a quieter, more elegant design. The new wedge is less about the chunky espadrille and more about a sculptural, architectural shape. The Row's Liisa pump is a perfect example: its curved wedge is subtle yet distinctive, offering a nod to vintage style without feeling costumed. This aligns perfectly with the current fashion mood, which favors sophisticated simplicity and investment pieces.
Why Kendall Jenner's Endorsement Matters
Kendall Jenner is not just a model; she is one of the most influential fashion figures of her generation. With over 200 million social media followers, her sartorial choices are scrupulously observed by fashion enthusiasts and young women around the world. When she wears a piece, it often sells out in hours. Her ability to mix high-end luxury with everyday basics has made her a style icon for the 'quiet luxury' aesthetic that dominates the industry.
Jenner's decision to wear the Liisa pumps outside a concert is particularly telling. It proves that these heels are not just for the red carpet or formal events; they have a place in a casual, off-duty outfit. By pairing them with jeans and a simple tee, she demonstrates the versatility of the wedge pump. This is exactly the kind of styling trick that encourages people to embrace a trend that might otherwise feel too retro or uncommon.
Moreover, Kendall Jenner has a history of launching footwear trends. In 2022, her frequent appearances in point-toe ballet flats contributed to the revival of the style. In 2024, she was among the first to wear the 'mob wife' aesthetic's statement kitten heels. Now, with the wedge pump, she is signaling that
Source:MSN News