25 Hot Summer Heels and Wedges

May 28, 2013

Are you ready to rock some serious summer style? From happy hours in the sunshine to a full summer of rehearsal dinners, weddings, and probably a few engagement parties, we love dressing up in the summertime. But what about shoes?! Here are 25 eclectic, colorful, and very Brit + Co. heels and wedges for hot summer style.

1. Lola Heels ($168): These make us think of color blocking under the sea! A modern day Ariel would definitely approve.

2. Seychelles Suede Heel ($80): these delicate heels have just enough heel to count as fancy, and we’re loving the turquoise pop.

3. Chevron Lucite Heels ($158): Chevron and lucite is all you really need to know about these heels. Now if only those platforms with mini fish tanks in the heel would come back into style… ;)

4. Etta Bead-Stitch Pumps ($275): Take your classic pump and just… bead it.

5. Wynette Peep-Toe Heel ($149): For a chunky bit of height, these butt-kicking heels will do just the trick.

6. Lillian Suede Low Wedge ($178): The bold blue and sleek lines of this mini wedge are timeless.

7. Mani Cap Toe Pump ($56): Go for the color-dipped look with either of these bold color blocked pumps.

8. Graphic Platform Wedge ($218): Pair these with your favorite little black dress for a totally new and trendy look.

9. Eclectic Company Heel ($68): Wait a minute, it’s like these shoes were designed for our site!

10. Kate Spade Sage Pump ($298): For a bit of old Hollywood glamour, these sparkly darlings by Kate Spade are lovely.

11. Kimmie Slide Sandals ($90): We can easily picture boho fashionistas from Venice Beach rocking these sandals.

12. Korin d’Orsays ($148): We’re loving the soft lavender pink hue paired with a bold graphic heel.

13. Rosemary Heel ($100): Another pair on the chunky heel end of the spectrum, we’re digging this modern take on the Mary Jane heel.

14. Boat Tote Wedge ($180): The fact that these shoes are made from canvas makes them way comfier than your standard wedge.

15. Pool Kids Club Wedge ($115): We know, we know, this barely counts as a wedge but we couldn’t resist all of the different patterns coming together so playfully!

16. Lucky Charm Heels ($66): These would be a really fun pop of color with just the right wedding dress.

17. Sun and Sandalwood Wedge ($45): We can’t figure out way, but something about the diagonal curves of this shoe make us think of the ’80s, but muted. We’re in.

18. Lillian Glitter Low Wedge ($265): Another low wedge for the folks attending outdoor weddings on the sand or grass, we love the glitter!

19. Dolce Vita Gwendolyn ($169): The modern clean lines of these shoes make them pretty killer for any outfit or occasion.

20. Ikat Toms Wedges ($69): An old Brit + Co. favorite, we’ve spent many a summer night in our trusty Toms.

21. Mixed Media Heels ($148): We’re super into the trend of different textures, patterns, and colors coming together. The name of these shoes couldn’t be more fitting!

22. Seychelles Thyme Wedge ($95): There’s something so elegant about these colors and lines. Lovely for summer brunches.

23. Kate Spade Ila Sandal ($358): And onto the splurge section of today’s roundup! How much do you love these florals?

Heart Work and Dedication

and adorable heart shoe lace pendants? Sign us up.

25. Dolce Vita Nimble ($169): Finally, for gals who are feeling bold on their feet, these crazy wedges are perfect for you.

11 Adorable Spring Boots Every Shoe Lover Needs To Try This Season

Spring is my favorite time of year not only for the warmer temperatures, but because it signals a much-needed change in my wardrobe. Where heavy coats and turtlenecks were once in rotation (or, let's be real, t-shirts and sweatpants), light layers and flowy dresses come out to play.

Even in light of this transitional time, I still find myself reaching for boots to pair with any and every outfit I put together! There's a perfect pair of spring boots for you, too, whether you like a Western-inspired look or a more practical walking boot.

Scroll on for the best of this season's spring boots to step out in utter style!

Nordstrom

Dingo Harlee Moto Boots

An easy way to transition moto boots from winter to spring is to snag 'em in a lighter color, as opposed to an all-black pair. These mid-calf boots from Dingo have all the classic details (that go with every outfit!), from the hooped harness to the top buckle.

Anthropologie

Frye Campus Boots

You can also never go wrong with this beloved boot from Frye. The light, banana-colored leather is quite literally the perfect hue for wearing with everything in your spring wardrobe!

Nordstrom

Madewell The Darcy Ankle Boots

If taller spring boots don't speak to your style (or your comfort levels), ankle boots are the way to go! This sleek, pointed pair comes in a handful of colors – for spring, opt for lighter shades, but if you're shopping for an all-season boot, black will never fail.

SeaVees

SeaVees Bolinas Off Shore Boots

These 100% waterproof natural rubber boots will come in super handy on rainy spring days! They're extremely easy to put on (thanks to the pull tabs) and walk in since they're fashioned with a memory foam footbed.

Tecovas

Tecovas The Cassie Boots

Western wear is one of my personal favorite fashion trends, so I will always support cowgirl-esque boots like these for any season – but these could look so stunning with a swingy spring dress! The sheen of these leather cuties ultimately make them more fashion-forward than your typical Western boot, plus they're comfy enough to wear on a night out.

Nordstrom

Dingo Anarchy Leather Booties

These adorable booties give the moto energy your spring 'fits are craving, all without the restriction of a traditional tall boot! While you could shop 'em in black, brown, or olive, this rustic red color might just be exactly what you need to infuse a bit of color into your spring looks.

Free People

Free People Hybrid Harness Boots

Okay, yes! These boots are downright dreamy. Not quite a full boot, they boast hints of clogs and loafers, too, offering a playful preppy look – just the energy we all need for the new season! I would style them with some socks, a mini skirt, and light sweater to step out on the town this spring.

Rothy's

Rothy's The Classic Boots

Rothy's boots are ideal for the commuter or just the comfy shoe-lover. Fashioned with a bespoke insole, they offer "unbelievable, cushion-like comfort" with every step. Plus, the material is made with a bit of stretch for added room. This leopard print pair would make the perfect statement shoe for springtime, though they also come in a few other solid colorways.

Urban Outfitters

Steve Madden Rocky Buckled Tall Boots

If your personal style leans more edgy, you're likely already in love with these buckled boots. Though they make a perfect match for baggy or cuffed jeans in the wintertime, you should totally show off the whole shoe for spring by wearing them with a mini skirt or dress!

Anthropologie

Matisse Sienna Western Boots

These Western boots are everything! The floral stitching recalls spring in the most stylish way, plus, thanks to the solid black colorway, you'll be able to pair them seamlessly with the rest of your wardrobe.

Urban Outfitters

Hunter Micah Lug Sole Rain Boots

It can be a real challenge to balance style and practicality when ti comes to spring boots. Luckily, with these Hunter boots, you don't have to sacrifice either. The lug sole and waterproof outer can easily tackle rainy terrain while the cushioned footbed ensures comfort along the way.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The Original "Gossip Girl" Cast: Where Are They Now?

It's been 17 years since Gossip Girl first premiered on The CW, thus opening our eyes to the scandalous lives of Manhattan's elite and introducing us to a new generation of stars like Blake Lively and Leighton Meester.

In the six seasons the show was on air, it captivated fans and critics alike, serving up week after week of delicious drama and continuously upping the ante for TV show fashion. ("So many designers were lining up to be a part of it — they wanted their stuff on Blake or Leighton," costume designer Eric Daman told Vanity Fair.) Click through to find out what the Gossip Girl cast has been up to since the show's success, and where they are today.

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Michael Kors

Blake Lively (Serena van der Woodsen)

Of all the Gossip Girl cast alumni, Blake Lively is arguably the most well-known. Not only has she gone on to major roles in movies — including The Age of Adaline, The Shallows, All I See Is You, and most recently, It Ends with Us— but she's also married to fellow actor Ryan Reynolds (married in 2012).

Blake shares four beautiful daughters, James, Inez, Betty, and the youngest (born in 2023) whose name has not been announced publicly with Ryan. True to her Gossip Girl character, she's quite the fashionista! In her spare time, she likes to hang out with her BFFs, who just so happen to include Taylor Swiftandthe Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants ladies.

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Leighton Meester (Blair Waldorf)

Leighton Meester has a career that would make even her cunningly ambitious Queen B character proud. Since Gossip Girl's end in 2012, she's acted in films including Life Partners, The Judge, The Weekend Away, and most recently, EXmas. She even recorded and released songs such as "Good Girls Go Bad" with Cobra Starship and the solo effort "Somebody to Love," and even starred on Broadway in Of Mice and Men back in 2014.

Leighton is married to actor Adam Brody (The O.C., Jennifer's Body, Gilmore Girls) as of 2014. She has two kids – one daughter and one son.

She has been heavily involved in philanthropy while taking on acting projects, primarily volunteering and campaigning with Feeding America and the Los Angeles Food Bank.

Dominik Bindl/Getty Images

Taylor Momsen (Jenny Humphrey)

Long gone are the days when Taylor Momsen played Dan Humphrey's sweet (and a bit messed up) little sis, Jenny. The actress left the Gossip Girl cast in 2010 in order to pursue her dreams of a music career, and all these years later, she's still doing just that as the frontwoman of the uber-successful rock group, The Pretty Reckless. With four records under their belt, the four-member band has supported bands like Evanescence, Soundgarden, and Guns N' Roses, and has toured in numerous cities and music festivals.

Momsen has typically kept her dating life on the down-low. She is currently single and appears to be putting all of her energy into her band.

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Penn Badgley (Dan Humphrey)

Everyone’s favorite Gossip Girl — er, guy — Penn Badgley, followed in his on-screen sister's footsteps after the show ended, pursuing his musical interests with rock band MOTHXR. The band's most current project, Centerfold, was released back in 2016.

Badgley has since acted in several movies and TV shows including Easy A, The Paper Store, and Here Today, but his most notable work has been on the ongoing book-based Netflix series, You. He plays Joe Goldberg, a charming bookkeeper with eerily odd characteristics, especially when it comes to love.

Badgley currently has a podcast titled Podcrushed, which explores the awkwardness of adolescence and revisits guests' best (and worst) middle school memories. He cohosts with Nava Kavelin and Sophie Ansari. One episode even features ex-Gossip Girl co-star, Leighton Meester!

Badgley is married to singer and doula Domino Kirke as of 2017. Kirke already had a child from a previous relationship. Badgley and Kirke had their first son together in 2020.

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Diesel

Ed Westwick (Chuck Bass)

Ed Westwick tapped into his angsty side post-Gossip Girl, starring as Tybalt in a 2013 adaptation of Romeo & Juliet. Since then, he has fought crime as Kent Grainger on Wicked City, played a crime lord on Snatch, and sold double-glazed windows on White Gold. Is there any role he can't play? Most recently, Westwick stars in the movie DarkGame.

With a background in music, Westwick also currently sings in the bandFor You. Their most recent release is the song "Tailspin," and they're set to release a new single "Here Comes Trouble" in March 2024.

Westwick had been dating model and actress Amy Jacksonsince 2021, with the pair getting happily engaged during a ski trip in January 2024.

Leon Bennett/Getty Images for MBJx DAVID YURMAN

Chace Crawford (Nate Archibald)

Following his stint as a wealthy Upper East Sider on Gossip Girl, Texas native Chace Crawford tried his hand at playing a greedy oil worker on ABC's short-lived TV series, Blood & Oil. He's had several film roles since – you can catch him in movies like Undrafted, Eloise, Nighthawks, even voice-actingin Belle. Most recently, Crawford stars as The Deep on The Boys.

Crawford has previously dated Carrie Underwood, Rachelle Goulding, and Rebecca Rittenhouse, though he is currently single as a Pringle.

Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Jessica Szohr (Vanessa Abrams)

Jessica Szohr, who played Dan Humphrey's BFF slash on-again, off-again girlfriend (needless to say, we were confused too), has been a lot busier than her character was after season four, when she was all but written off the show.

In the years since Gossip Girl, the actress scored several roles on TV shows such as Complications, Kingdom, Twin Peaks and The Orville. She even starred in Taylor Swift's music video for "22" back in 2013!

Jessica also welcomed a daughter with her longtime boyfriend in early 2021.

Jessica currently hosts a podcast called "XOXO" that dives deep into the Gossip Girl cast, crew, and behind-the-scenes moments. Some notable episodes have featured Zuzanna Szadkowski (Dorota), Aaron Tveit (Tripp van der Bilt), Kelly Rutherford (Lily van der Woodsen), and Michelle Trachtenburg (Georgina Sparks).

Jemal Countess/Getty Images

Michelle Trachtenberg (Georgina Sparks)

Since her stint as the "bad girl" Georgina Sparks, Michelle Trachtenberg landed roles on shows like Criminal Minds, NCIS: Los Angeles, Sleepy Hollow, and Sister Cities among other numerous series and movies. She even reprised her role as Georgina for the 2021 remake of Gossip Girl on HBO Max!

She managed to keep her personal life largely out of the tabloids, including her dating life. The last update on her relationship status was in 2023, and that she was dating her talent agent, Jay Cohen. She reportedly previously dated Shawn Ashmore, Joshua Radin, and Jason Segel.

Unfortunately, Michelle passed away on February 26, 2025.

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Kelly Rutherford (Lily van der Woodsen)

Besides being a New York Fashion Week icon (we'd expect nothing less of Lily van der Woodsen's alter ego!), Kelly Rutherford has popped up in several TV shows over the years, including Quantico, Jane the Virgin, and Dynasty.

She also frequently travels to France and Monaco, where, after years of custody battles with her second ex-husband, Daniel Giersch, she has extensive visitation rights to see her two children, who reside there with their father.

"Yes, it was a challenging time. It was a heartbreaking time," she told People. "But I focus on the good most of the time, I really do," she says. "I'm very thankful of where we are. I have a great relationship with my kids."

When she's not with her kids or working on a project, Kelly is dropping iconic 'fit pics on her Instagram account.

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Matthew Settle (Rufus Humphrey)

Matthew Settle, who played rockstar dad Rufus Humphrey, continued acting after the Gossip Girl cast dissolved. He hasn't been on any other TV shows other than one episode of Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders in 2016. He mostly stuck to movies, acting in titles like Ouija, Marshall the Miracle Dog, and Valentine: The Dark Avenger.

Settle is also a dad of two children, having welcomed his first with actress and model Naama Nativ in 2009. He had divorced her in 2011 and went on to have a second baby with girlfriend Maria Alfonsin in 2015.

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Zuzanna Szadkowski (Dorota Kishlovsky)

Though Blair's loyal maid and, ultimately, best friend, wasn't technically a main character, there's no denying that it would have been a different show without her unwavering presence! Zuzanna Szadowski has dabbled in film and television since then, appearing in shows such as Girls,The Good Wife, and Modern Love.

In 2010, she partnered with Sam Weisman to open The Sam Weisman Studio, an acting school (now closed).

Oh, and did we mention she just so happens to be one of Leighton Meester's real-life BFFs?

Which Gossip Girl cast member is your fave? Tweet us @BritandCo!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

blake lively nostalgia gossip girl leighton meester penn badgley taylor momsen tv

11 “Quiet Luxury” Shoes From Target – Starting At $18!

Target’s latest shoe drop is serving up some serious quiet luxury vibes – all without the high price tags! From chic flats to tall boots, every pair flaunts details that make them look far more expensive than they actually are.

If you’re looking for stylish shoes that’ll elevate any outfit, these 11 Target finds are for you.

Target

A New Day Mel Sheer Mesh Ballet Flats

Mesh ballet flats like these are the epitome of luxe-looking fashion. Luckily, this $25 pair comes in three easy-to-wear colors to go with every get-up.

Target

A New Day Tambra Fold Over Tall Boots

We've seen similar fold over boot styles go for $200+, but these bad boys are currently just $42 (was $50) at Target. The tiny buckle gives 'em that fancy effect your 'fits are craving.

Target

Universal Thread Midge Boat Shoes

Boat shoes are a long-standing staple when it comes to quiet luxury, and they're often associated with coastal wealth. The stark white color of these shoes gives them the same air, though you'd never guess they're only $35.

Target

Wild Fable Elsa Mary Jane Ballet Flats

The tailored, sleek look of these ballet flats is perfectly sophisticated and they'll pretty much match with anything you want to wear, from jeans to skirts!

Target

Wild Fable Sasha Buckle Slingback Kitten Heels

Ooh, spicy! These red-hot slingback kitten heels look super elevated, thanks to the dramatic pointed toe and multiple buckle straps. Snag them in this bright red or a simple black for $35.

Target

Wild Fable Liia Multi-Strap Mary Jane Heels

Preppy and eye-catching, these $28 (was $40) pair of Mary Janes will look stunning with some wide-leg pants and a tailored cardi.

Target

A New Day Issa Mesh Mary Jane Ballet Flats

Mesh strikes again in this adorable $35 pair of flats that give undeniable quiet luxury energy.

Target

A New Day Joy Ballet Pumps

These cutesy $35 pumps have all you need (AKA a tiny toe bow) to complete your spring and summer outfits.

Target

Universal Thread Joan Slingback Loafer Flats

With the look of a classic loafer and a slingback-forward update, these playful flats will immediately give you a chic, fashion-bending look – all for $18 (was $30)!

Target

Wild Fable Lysandra Gingham Eyelet Kitten Heels

We could easily see shoes like this being sold at Nordstrom or Reformation for 3 times the price. Lucky for you (and your wallet), these gingham cuties are just $40 at Target!

Target

A New Day Sandy Mule Flats

These slip-on flats offer your feet tons of comfort since they're made with a memory foam insole. Snag them in black or off-white for $30!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Sorry, These 6 "Outdated" Jewelry Trends Need To Go In 2025

Jewelry is truly the cherry on top of a good outfit — so you definitely don't wanna top everything off with an outdated trend you pulled from the bottom of your jewelry box. And while some jewelry will always be timeless, there are plenty of pieces that are way past their prime. Whether too gaudy, too much of a flash trend, or some combination of the two, these are the six outdated jewelry trends you should totally retire in 2025.

Ditch these six outdated jewelry trends for good this year!

1. Beaded Jewelry

Target

Universal Thread Seed Bead Necklace Set

Once upon a time beaded jewelry was a popular status symbol among the "it girls" in middle or high school. It was a nostalgic trend that's come been recycled over the years, but it's finally time to put it rest. Why?

It's time to wear jewelry that doesn't feel so juvenile.

2. Excessive Charm Braclets

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Western Monogram Charm Bracelet

Sometimes we fondly remember the days we used to wear chunky charm bracelets that featured our initials, hearts, stars, seashells, and more. You usually could hear us before you saw us because our favorite accessories made a lot of clinking noises. Maybe we're traumatized by how loud our bracelets each time we moved our arm during tests, but we're finally over wearing excess charms. That's not to say this style is 100% "outdated" though!

We're all in favor of this trend, but we'd rather see you choose 1-3 meaningful charms instead of squeezing 10+ on a chain link.

3. Cuban Link Bracelets

Pandora

Pandora Timeless Pavé Cuban Chain Bracelet

Jewelry trends are supposed to be fun and cute, but this one is giving us "Mob wife" energy...you know, the trend from 2023? We know it's been a popular style that some people gravitate towards, but we prefer to see you wearing bracelets that indicate you're in your "soft girl era."

4. Chunky Gold Earrings

Alexis Bittar

Alexis Bittar Molten Gold Puffy Teardrop Earrings

The quickest way to age yourself is by making makeup mistakeswhile wearing the heaviest chunky gold earrings you own. Unless your goal is to walk around like you're auditioning to be an extra in a spoof of an '80s or '90s comedy, don't ever pair the two together.

As a matter of fact, give your ears a break from the heaviness of this trend.

5. Thin Rings

gorjana

Gorjana G Ring Set

Thin rings seem like they're perfect for the set of Severance, but how practical are they in real life? We're afraid you'll spend your hard earned money on a cute ring set only to lose one or two of them while doing your daily activities.

Then again, we're a little biased because chunkier rings are taking center stage for their ability to infuse personality in your everyday casual outfits.

6. Seashells

Ettika

Ettika Private Island Assorted Shell Necklace

Shell necklaces remind us of that one tongue twister that we just couldn't ever get right: "She sells seashells by the seashore."

For obvious reasons, this jewelry trend gets a hard NO from us — it's gaudy and doesn't really complement many personal styles. Even if you swear it does, we'd rather see you wear a pair of shell earrings instead of a statement necklace like this.

Subscribe to our newsletter to see which fashion trends we'd actually love to see you wear.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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13 Educational Podcasts To Learn And Grow From

We may have left mountains of homework and questionable cafeteria food behind years ago, but that doesn't mean we can't learn anything from educational podcasts. From online classes to language apps, we’re all about expanding our knowledge, especially if it’s fun.

When your commute turns into a bore or you’re up for picking up a new skill, these educational podcasts will drop some serious knowledge on you, no backpack required.

Good Job, Brain!

What began as a Kickstarter project has now become an extremely popular trivia podcast. Half quiz show and half offbeat news, Good Job, Brain! will have you laughing and dominating your next trivia night.

Curiosity Daily

Curiosity Daily is an award-winning podcast that allows you to learn a little bit more about the world around you. It takes listeners through research-based life hacks and the latest science and technology news, allowing you to walk out into the world more knowledgable.

Hidden Brain

Hidden Brain explores something we all strive to understand better - our thoughts! Each episode teaches about social psychology and the neuroscience behind our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. What I love about this podcast is how practical and applicable the information shared truly is.

Ologies

Ologies is designed to be a crash course on all things science. It talks about everything from dinosaurs to space to the human body, giving you all sorts of information you never knew you needed or wanted. The host is able to interview experts in the field, giving you a really comprehensive look on the subjects tackled.

Stuff Mom Never Told You

This podcast is filled with valuable information that is going to make your life better. Its two female hosts talk about everything from sex and relationships to health and career. They break down really complex topics in a way that feels accessible, educational, and engaging.

The History Chicks

This podcast dials you into the "herstory" you never learned. It tells the tories of girl bosses from queens to warriors to scientists and artists.

The Gist

Radio journalist Mike Pesca leads this Slate podcast, which covers three hot, political topics a week. From JFK to debates, The Gist will keep you in the know.

Stuff You Should Know

HowStuffWorks writers Josh and Chuck educate listeners on everything from the ecosystem to Jack the Ripper and sharks. What stuff should you know? Take a listen to how sushi works or the science behind3D printing.

Planet Money

Mo’ money, mo’ problems, right? Not if you’re Planet Money. They’ll teach you how to handle your money, check your finances and work with the economy, all without being a bore. Where to start? Learn more about homeowners insurance policies or free money.

TED Radio Hour

TED talks are known for their thought-provoking topics and speakers. This podcast is a coproduction of powerhouses NPR and TED to bring ideas, creations and problem-solving tips to the table. Listen as individuals share their ideas each week, like singer-songwriter Megan Washington, who talks about how singing achieves stillness.

The School of Greatness

Former pro-athlete Lewis Howes takes business, leadership and personal development to the next level. The School of Greatness features top professionals who aim to inspire and encourage growth in their listeners. Ready for change? Find out the 10 essential truths needed to upgrade your life or discover simple ways to overcome stress.

No Stupid Questions

Angela Duckworth, a research psychologist, partners up with tech and sports executive, Mike Maughan, to answer all of your science questions. They answer them in a knowledgable and non-condescending way, no matter how silly the question may seem.

Science Vs

We all know sometimes the internet can bombard us with info, and it's hard to decipher what's true and what's not. Science Vs explores the science behind popular claims and trends, interviewing experts and conducting in-depth research to help you decide what's worth following.

Which educational podcasts have you listened to recently?

Lead image via Ivan Samkov/Pexels

This post has been updated.