Last Updated on July 25, 2026 by Eve Dawes
This Melissa jelly shoes review is for anyone deciding whether the original jelly shoe brand is actually worth buying into, or whether a cheaper dupe will do just fine. Since Melissa is the brand most people think of first when jelly shoes and jelly sandals come up, and the one credited with keeping the category alive through the years, I wanted to give an honest Melissa shoes review based on actually wearing them, not just looking at the marketing. So if you’ve been looking to jump on the jelly shoes trend keep reading.
This article contains affiliate links and gifted items which do not affect the price.
Why are Melissa Jelly Shoes so Popular
There are a few reasons Melissa jelly shoes are so popular. One, the endless choice of styles and colors, with over 900 jelly shoe styles to choose from. Two, their sustainability, from their manufacturing process to packaging and their soles. Three, and what makes all Melissa jelly shoes unique is their bubble gum scent for that Y2K nostalgia. Better than a sweaty feet smell I guess! PS they’re also vegan, eco-friendly, and recyclable.
Melissa Jelly Shoes Review: Are Melissa Jelly Shoes Comfortable?
Yes, I genuinely find Melissa jelly sandals comfortable. I own Melissa’s Harper flats which are super lightweight, breathable, and have a padded insole, which makes a real difference compared to older jelly shoe styles that were just a flat piece of plastic with nothing underfoot. They’re comfortable enough to wear for a full day without that stiff, rubbing feeling jelly shoes used to be known for.
Do Melissa Jelly Shoes Run True to Size?
Mostly, yes. They run true to size, though in my opinion they run a little wide, so if you have narrower feet, it might be worth considering sizing down slightly or checking Melissa’s specific fit guide for the style you’re looking at before you buy.
Which Melissa Jelly Shoes Should You Buy?
This depends on how you want to wear them. If you want something that goes with absolutely everything in your closet, stick to a neutral colorway, black, clear, or a soft nude, since these blend into an outfit rather than becoming the statement piece.
If you want a slightly more elevated, fashion forward take, a kitten heel style is worth the upgrade from a flat, giving the same jelly shoe fun without looking too casual. And if you want to have more fun with the trend, a bold color is the way to go, since jelly shoes are inherently a playful shoe, a saturated color leans into that rather than fighting it.
As much as I love the jelly thong heel trend and Melissa jelly sandals for the beach and pool, I just can’t get my feet to stay in this style of shoe regardless of the brand, so closed style shoes like Melissa Harper Jelly Flats work better for me. The caged upper is actually an “M” pattern and the buckle looks more elevated than a lot of other jelly shoes.
Melissa Jelly Shoes Review: My Honest Verdict
Yes, these Brazilian made jelly shoes are worth it. Between the comfort, style and color choices, and the fact that Melissa remains the most trusted, established name in this category, they’re a genuinely solid buy whether you’re testing the jelly shoe trend for the first time or already know you love the style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Melissa jelly shoes are genuinely comfortable, and the padded insole on some of the styles makes a noticeable difference compared to older, flatter jelly shoe designs.
They run mostly true to size, though they can run a little wide, so it’s worth considering sizing down slightly if you have narrower feet. Always read the user reviews on Melissa’s website on the sizing of the style you’re interested in.
Go with a neutral like black, clear, or nude if you want a pair that matches everything, a kitten heel style for a more elevated look, or a bold color if you want to lean fully into the playful side of the trend.
Yes, between the comfort, their sustainability practices, and Melissa’s reputation as the original, most trusted name in the jelly shoe category, they’re a solid investment whether you’re new to the trend or already a fan.
Jelly shoes are for so much more than just beach vacations. If you’re stuck for styling ideas, check out all of these jelly shoes outfit ideas.
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