Early-2000s Shoe Trends Taking Over Zara and H&M Right Now
It's a blast from the past, in a good way!
As a nearly 30-year-old, this is my first time witnessing the 2000s trend cycle complete a full loop. Specifically, the summer shoe trends I liked as a child and tween are now back in fashion, and I have mixed feelings about it. More notably, some of my favorite early aughts-era shoes are having a moment at two retailers where I spend a lot of time shopping: Zara and H&M.
I'm talking about the flip-flops that celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Elizabeth Olsen can't stop wearing, the strappy sandals that Rihanna has already co-signed, and the metallic heels that Florence Pugh just picked out for the Thunderbolts* press tour opportunity. What's more, classic wedge sandals have received the 2025 boho fashion treatment with enlarged stud details and chunky, comfortable soles. The new-in summer collections at both retailers are giving me a full-on blast of nostalgia.
Keep scrolling for even more adorable styles that will have you reaching for your low-rise jeans and capri-length leggings. Fashion has officially taken a trip back in time, but I'm (at least kind-of?) here for it.
Wedge Sandals
Strappy sandals were a staple of Carey's late-nineties and early-aughts wardrobe.
Wedge sandals have been trending for a few seasons due to the resurgence of boho, '70s-era fashion. However, this silhouette was cherished by early aughts It-girls. Delicate lace ties have been replaced with chunkier (and more secure) straps to ensure you feel safe and comfortable.
These suede sandals are so retro.
A wide band and high platform add comfort.
I could picture these shoes in a Lizzie McGuire episode.
I have vivid memories of wanting a pair of sandals that looked exactly like these when I was a kid.
These heels are perfect for petites looking to add a touch of height.
Flip-Flops
A fresh-faced Anne Hathaway enjoyed a day of shopping for another early-aughts staple—Juicy Couture—at the Chateau Marmont in Hollywood, California.
Ah, flip-flops: the comfortable shoe trend has returned. Elizabeth Olsen has been spotted in a pair from The Row. Hailey Bieber wore a kitten-heeled pair on a recent date night. Emily Ratajkowski wore a pair last summer that looked more like a pair of pool floaties. This all goes to say you should probably invest in a pair this year.
These sporty sandals feel so cool.
Pack these away on vacation.
These super-slender flip-flops are the perfect elevated option.
Or, try this pair adorned with a delicate knot detail.
Suede sandals continue to be one of summer's most surprising shoe trends.
Strappy Sandals
A 'Lizzy Maguire'-era Hillary Duff donned strappy black sandals in 2001.
You can't look at a red carpet photo from the early aughts without seeing at least one pair of strappy sandals. Zara and H&M's strappy sandal offerings range from heeled flip-flops to retro T-strap styles, and I want them all.
Heeled flip-flops were the first early aughts-inspired silhouette to hit the modern market, and the look is still going strong.
These T-strap sandals are perfect for wearing to a summer wedding.
I love how simple these sandals are.
These offer a modern take on the strappy sandal trend.
I want these to be my go-to summer sandals.
Metallic Heels
Spears arrived on the red carpet at the 2003 American Music Awards in her signature gold sandals.
Metallic shoes instantly remind me of the high-glam heyday of the early aughts. Newer styles capture the essence of that era with 3D detailing and ultra-strappy silhouettes without feeling outdated.
Swap your favorite slingbacks for this gold pair.
A sky-high heel and 3D details add to the early-2000s charm.
If you love the look of a high heel but can't handle the discomfort, consider this kitten heel.
Pick these up if gold isn't in your color wheel.
These slingback heels are a fun swap for the office.
Jelly Shoes
Paris Hilton rocked silver jelly flats on a Sydney shopping day in December, 2006.
Jelly sandals are my favorite summer shoe trend because they're so fun. Jennifer Lawrence is a longtime fan of the style, so grab one of these similar versions in a pretty pastel hue for the season ahead.
These pastel purple flats are so pretty.
These jelly flip-flops combine two of the best trends.
Or, choose slingback flats made from this fun jelly material.
T-strap sandals are also trending, so this style makes easy work of both trends.
Pale pink flats are the secret to emulating J-Law's style.
Woven Shoes
Lauren Conrad wore woven heels on MTV's Total Request Live in 2005.
Woven styles are everywhere right now. Woven bags and similar jute designs are dominating the bag world, so it makes sense that woven shoes are making a comeback, too. The silhouette was a favorite of Lauren Conrad's in 2005, and many similar options are available to grab right now.
These woven flats are perfect for wearing every day.
These almond-toed flats are so chic.
Swap your black heels for this white pair.
The fisherman aesthetic trend gets a chic upgrade with this pair of heels.
Or, try this higher-heeled version for a night out.
