TikTok Officially Brought Back This 1980s Footwear Fad – Will You Wear It This Summer?

Everything that goes around comes back around — in fashion, that is. An old style always re-enters current trends eventually, like Coach purses, ’90s jeans, and virtually any Y2K-inspired clothing that we’ve seen all over our TikTok (we just ask that skinny jeans stay in the past). Now, the internet is fixated on a 1980s footwear fad from none other than Old Navy.  

The retailer is selling jelly shoes (yes, we can’t believe it either). You know, the PVC plastic shoes that came and went throughout the ’90s and 2000s. At the time, the footwear was offered in a variety of colors that served a bold outfit statement, and would often be worn in the warmer months. Ahead of summer, TikTok seems to have re-emerged jelly shoes in a newly fashionable way. 

The Jelly Lattice Ballet Flats cost just $20 and are available in five colors (silver glitter, cashmere blue, black jack, clear, and scotty red). Made of 100% synthetic material, the slip-on shoe features a simple criss cross pattern. Old Navy shoppers have been spotting them since late March, with other customers quickly hopping on the jelly flats bandwagon within the last week. 

Creator @brookedahlberg describes the shoes as “perfect” and “nostalgic.” Commenters are reminiscing on the style, with one writing that the shoe was “one of the best things from their childhood.” Sizes range from 6 to 11, with an available size guide on Old Navy’s website that can aid you in the buying process. 

Another social media user, @madeline.kent, was sporting an Old Navy outfit when commenters spotted the jelly shoes, and cited the style as “comfy.” Another TikToker said, “Bought the jellies in red and I am obsessed.”

“These are the most comfortable jellies I have put on my feet,” content creator @adaarguijo told followers. According to the comments, the shoes run true to size, with other shoppers excited that they’re “making a comeback.”

You can shop Old Navy’s $20 Jelly Ballet Flats online or in-store in the shoe section. The retailer’s website even offers free pickup at your local brick-and-mortar and free fast shipping for rewards members. Check out our extensive guide on Old Navy Rewards to get the most bang for your buck. Plus, through the end of April you can get 3% cash back with RetailMeNot. Insider Tip: Our cash back can be stacked with other coupons and deals!

According to TikTok, the jellies may even cost as low as $12, depending on the prices at the store near you. Due to the fact that this style is already marked as a best-seller on Old Navy’s website, we recommend shopping for the footwear sooner rather than later. If you can’t seem to locate the shoe in-store, we recommend asking an available employee. 

Don’t wait to be a part of the jelly footwear resurgence. Thanks to Old Navy’s spring sale, you can shop the shoe style and pair them with clothing that’s up to 50% off (like this TikTok-famous spring dress).