The Return of the Isabel Marant Wedge Sneaker

Within the past few years, we've seen the resurgence of almost every fashion trend or style imaginable, even some most of us swore off forever (low-rise jeans, for example.) However, there is a realization that we all must come to in life, and especially in fashion: History always repeats itself whether we like it or not.

Enter the Isabel Marant Bekett wedge sneaker. 

Isabel Marant released the Bekett wedge sneaker in 2011 and quickly became famous for it. These high-top sneakers feature a three-inch concealed wedge heel, exaggerated tongue, and velcro straps. The wedge sneaker was easily the most notorious shoe at the time, with celebrities like Beyoncé and Rihanna sporting them in their music videos or just out and about, while others declared them to be just another ugly sneaker of the 2000s.

So, who do we have to thank for this resurgence of the Isabel Marant wedge sneaker? TikTok.

TikTok’s algorithm plays a key role in this phenomenon. When a user posts a video showcasing an outfit, the platform’s ability to target a massive, engaged audience means that within hours, a previously overlooked or niche item can become the newest It girl trend. Users, eager to replicate the look, flood the comments section with questions about where to buy the item, causing a surge in demand. In the case of the Isabel Marant Bekett sneaker, a simple post featuring the once-iconic shoe can lead to its resurgence, reminding fashion lovers of its appeal and reviving its place in the cultural zeitgeist.

During the height of the Isabel Marant wedge sneaker era, the classic way to style them came from influences from Tumblr. The shoes were paired with ripped skinny jeans and a flannel or the dreary chevron print that was plastered on every blouse at the time. Along with many other fashion choices of the time, the Bekett wedge sneaker was easily a statement shoe of its decade. 

Fast-forward to today, and there’s a new way to style these shoes, bringing a whole new aesthetic and correlation with the once "ugly" sneakers. Instead of skinny jeans and a flannel, think bolder, shorter, and thriftier. Pairing your Isabel Marant wedges with a super short mini skirt or micro shorts gives you the edge that comes along with these chunky shoes. Complimenting the outfit, accessorizing with statement jewelry and your favorite thrift, worn-out leather bag is a must. 

The rapid dissemination of trends like the Bekett sneaker through TikTok demonstrates the platform's power to transform once-forgotten items into must-haves, often driving up resale prices and sparking renewed interest from fashion houses themselves. Social media has made fashion more accessible, spontaneous, and community-driven, with TikTok at the forefront of this movement.

While these shoes may not be considered "vintage" just yet, being only 13 years old, they certainly evoke a strong sense of nostalgia. They bring back the gritty Y2K and mid-2000s aesthetics, making them a throwback to that era’s grunge-inspired style.