In this week's episode of "Retro Styles That TikTok Has Made New (and Cool) Again," we have none other than the thong heel. It's true - the controversial and alarmingly open-toed shoe that once dominated '90s fashion has managed to wiggle its way back into the mainstream yet again, though this time with a seemingly much larger fan base that includes everyone from fashion editors to celebrities like Rihanna and Kendall Jenner and more. Love it or hate it, the sexy heeled sandal proved to be huge during the summer season and shows no signs of slowing down throughout the fall - at least not if TikTok has anything to do with it.
I myself have been looking for a way to tap into the trend via a more affordable route - I expect I'll be spending a lot in the upcoming shopping season and therefore can't necessarily afford to splurge on the same designer styles loved by today's biggest stars (sigh). Fortunately, a recent scroll through Nordstrom Rack's site introduced me to these Dolce Vita Zini Thong Heels ($40, originally $60), which not only tick all of my boxes (stylish with a color variety and durable make) but also boast an under-$50 price tag. I've received endless compliments on these shoes, even managing to puzzle many of my editor friends at last month's New York Fashion Week festivities who were convinced the heeled sandals had to be designer (did I just discover the ultimate shoe dupe?).
Since I'm not in the business of gatekeeping, I break down everything that I love about this shoe and more - from the heel's strappy design and seamless fit to its endless styling options and more.
What I Like About These Dolce Vita Thong Heels
As someone who loves finding an affordable alternative or dupe of a more luxurious style, the price tag on these shoes was instantly a huge selling point for me. Thong heels have been bubbling up on my TikTok so much over the last few months that I've been desperate to find a way into the trend - though preferably through an outlet that wouldn't force me to fork over an outrageous amount of money on a designer style I wasn't necessarily confident would still be relevant next season (after all, the last time these shoes were hot was way back in the '90s). But these Dolce Vita shoes have proven to be a more affordable exception to the thong heel trend, with a timeless design that's versatile enough to be worn for a number of occasions - and, of course, an under-$50 price tag that you simply can't beat.
Beyond the price of these comfy heels, I also appreciate that unlike other pairs of thong styles, this particular style has an additional bit of material that stretches horizontally over the upper portion of the shoe, providing more support for feet when walking. Typical thong sandals will simply rely on a classic, V-shaped design for the shoe's straps, which - while it might offer more breathing room for toes - tends to create a less practical fit that's trickier to walk in, especially if the style is made from a sleek material like leather. These cute heels are unique in that they have more of a crisscross design that plays into the thong heel trend but also offers more strap coverage so my feet aren't aimlessly slipping around in the shoe while walking. Because of this, I've had no problem wearing them for longer days outside of the house - from meeting up with my girlfriends for happy hour to running back and forth between shows at New York Fashion Week.
What's Worth Noting
While the crisscross design on these thong sandals makes the shoe significantly easier to walk in, it also creates a much snugger fit that might not be ideal for everyone. The shoes certainly feel narrow while on, and because they're made from a polyurethane leather material, you can't necessarily expect they'll loosen up over time - for context, I've worn these heeled mules extensively over the last few months, and they still feel just like they did the first day I tried them on (snug and well-adjusted to my feet). In theory, this is a great thing, because it means the heels won't wear down or start to feel too lived-in too quickly. But if you're someone with wider feet or just a person who dislikes the feeling of tighter, more formfitting shoes, then these thong heels might not be the best pair for you.
Who Are These Thong Heels Best For?
If you're someone who (like me) has been looking for a way into the thong heel trend without having to dish out a ton of money on yet another viral TikTok fad, then you can't go wrong with these Dolce Vita heels. They are timeless and made to last (thanks to the shoe's thicker polyurethane material), and they can easily be styled with literally any outfit in your closet. I've worn them to work events, paired with a silk skirt and belted blazer; to dinner dates with my friends, teamed with a maxi sweaterdress and statement clutch; and even while running errands when I want to spice up my usual denim-and-bodysuit ensemble with a more elevated flair. The shoes are easy to dress up or down, and because of their strappy, open-toed design, I'm also confident I can wear them throughout any season - making them a great year-round staple.
Additional Details
- These thong heel shoes are available to shop in two colorways: classic black (my shade of choice) and caramel brown.
- They come in US women's sizes 6 through 11.
- The style has a 3.25" heel that is easy to walk in but also provides just enough height to elevate (literally) any outfit.
Where Are These Dolce Vita Heels Available to Shop?
These heeled thong sandals are available to shop at Nordstrom Rack.
Rating: