A POPULAR ’80s summer shoe beloved by Princess Diana is trending again – and Sainsbury’s are selling an identical pair.
The retro footwear is on sale at the supermarket retailer for just £16.
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Princess Diana was spotted sporting the popular wedge at the polo in 1981 Credit: WireImage
An identical pair is on sale now at Sainsbury’s for just £16 Credit: Tu
2026 has seen the return of an iconic retro shoe, and it’s set to be one of the hottest trends of the summer, according to Vogue.
The wedge is back and having a big moment this year, with hordes of shoppers scouring the high streets to find the perfect pair of vintage sandal-style shoes.
The retro footwear was created in 1935 by Salvatore Ferragamo, an Italian designer, first launching as an orthopaedic wedge before he debuted a wedge heel one year later.
The chunky shoe has continued to grow in popularity ever since and is now a wardrobe staple come warmer weather as it’s not only chic, but incredibly practical to walk in.
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Circa 1980, one royal in particular understood the advantages of this sturdy shoe and sported the stylish wedge whilst out and about just weeks before her wedding.
Princess Diana, then known as Lady Diana Spencer, was spotted wearing the shoes when attending a polo tournament at Cowdray Park Polo Club.
Dressed in a flowery blouse and canary yellow overalls, the soon-to-be princess completed the look with a pair of red espadrille wedges.
With the shoe firmly back in style, for shoppers looking to add a touch of royal flair to their wardrobes, a similar wedge can be found at Sainsbury’s and costs just £16.
The Neutral Wedge Espadrille Sandals are a beige-coloured shoe with textured heel detail and strap buckle design.
On the TU clothing website, the product description reads: “These neutral espadrille sandals have been designed with buckle strap detailing, a faux suede upper and a classy wedge sole.
“Perfect for pairing with shorts and tees on casual beach days.”
Originally retailing for £20, the lookalike wedges are currently on sale, saving shoppers £4 on the purchase.
The footwear has received glowing reviews from shoppers, with customers praising the “comfortable” and “stylish” wedges.
“Bought for my granddaughters christening and looked perfect with my dress,” praised one customer.
“Great wedges – comfortable, stylish and good quality,” said another.
“I bought these to go with a pair of wide leg summer trousers for a special event,” said one shopper.
“They are so comfortable and give me extra height – I love them and will wear them with lots of different outfits.”
