Y2K Lug-Sole Sandals Are the Nostalgic Shoe of the Summer

With a Sundress and Slick-Back

Now that ’90s babies have officially grown up, we’re making it our life’s mission to dress the way we always wanted to as kids. RIP to boring office attire and “dressing your age”—as full-grown adults, we’re reaching for micro shorts, baby tees, and those chunky sandals that are classic 90s style vibes.

If we’re talking “cool girls,” influencer Chanel McKinsie is the blueprint. She’s effectively mastered the glossy and dollcore trend, giving the whimsical aesthetic a baddie touch. This summer, nostalgic Dr. Martens sandals are at the top of her mood board—and the secret to all her chicest looks.

No shoe brand does chunky sandals better than Dr. Martens, the unofficial sponsor of the 1990s. Their new chunky Zebzag sandals are the ultimate ride-or-die shoe style. Loved for all-night music festivals and long walks through the streets of Manhattan, these sandals are truly unmatched. Here’s how McKinsie is styling them this summer.

With Balloon Pants and a Tube Top

Lesson number one in crafting the perfect summer uniform: trendmaxxing. Stack statement pieces—like billowing balloon pants, flatform sandals in luxe nubuck leather, and a tube top in a buzzy new color—for a high-impact, low-effort look. When you’re finished, reach for a kitschy beaded bag to appease your inner child.

For bonafide fashion girlies, the word “sundress” immediately causes drowsiness. But thankfully, McKinsie has discovered an antidote to this phenomenon, pinpointing the secret to making the basic fave feel eclectic-cool. up, your sundress will feel brand new when styled with groovy leather slides circa 1995, oval sunglasses, and a sleek braided bun.

With Capris and a Cropped Trench

Trench coats are every minimalist’s most trusted staple—“beige” in every sense of the word. But they can easily become a maximalist’s daydream with one simple addition: a pair of pastel platform sandals. Keep the rest of your look neutral, letting the unexpected color pop work overtime.

With Denim and Polka Dots

Even after-hours, Dr. Martens Zebzag sandals remain the constant of smart styling. Paired up with polka dot bottoms and a casual denim jacket, these babies go straight from work mode to your local dive bar—no outfit change needed. And if you see McKinsie walk in wearing the exact same thing, just mind your business and count your blessings.

Kelsey Stiegman

Kelsey (she/her) is a freelance digital fashion editor and writer with a knack for turning top-performing content into top-selling content. She has extensive experience in editorial and e-commerce strategy, having worked in both divisions during her years at Seventeen and Bustle. With more than a decade of experience in digital media, she also offers creative and social media consulting, as well as copywriting services. She enjoys cheeseburgers, traveling, and vintage hauls. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.