Jelly sandals have been circling back into the fashion conversation for a few seasons now, but this summer they are arriving with a proper co-sign. Melissa, the Brazilian footwear brand with a long history of high-fashion collaborations, has partnered with Copenhagen-based label Ganni on a collection that makes a genuine case for the jelly sandal as the shoe of the season. The full collection goes live on both brands’ websites on May 18 at 7 a.m. ET.
The pairing makes sense on paper and holds up in practice. Melissa built its reputation on recycled plastic footwear and a roster of collaborators that has included Jean Paul Gaultier and Marc Jacobs. Ganni brought its signature blend of playful prints, bold color, and the kind of effortless cool that has made it a favorite among the fashion crowd for years. Together, the two brands produced something that feels current without trying too hard.
What the Melissa x Ganni collection looks like
The collection centers on two silhouettes. The first is a classic slim flip-flop, the kind of flat sandal that works from the beach to a sidewalk cafe without any real effort. The second is a thong kitten heel, which adds a bit of lift and a slightly more dressed-up energy while keeping the overall vibe relaxed.
Both styles come in a range of colors that read as distinctly summer. Cherry red, bright yellow, aqua blue, and classic black are all represented, and Ganni’s signature leopard print makes an appearance for those who want something with a little more personality. The palette is cohesive without being predictable, and the leopard option in particular has been generating attention ahead of the drop.
The shoes are made with Melissa’s recycled plastic material, which the brand has refined over decades of production. Beyond the environmental angle, the material has practical appeal for summer wear. It holds up well in water, cleans easily, and the cushioned soles make extended wear more comfortable than the original jelly sandals most people remember from childhood.
Why the collab is already getting attention
Fashion insiders who got early access to the collection have responded well, particularly to the kitten heel style. One tester described becoming attached to the blue heels quickly, citing the cushioned soles and the design as reasons they were already planning to wear them across multiple trips this summer. That kind of early enthusiasm tends to move markets, and given both brands’ existing audiences, a sellout on launch day is a reasonable expectation.
What makes the collection resonate beyond its aesthetic is the consistency of its point of view. Ganni’s customer already understands the brand’s relationship with color and print. Melissa’s customer understands the brand’s commitment to sustainability and its comfort with unconventional materials. The collaboration does not ask either audience to stretch too far. It just gives both a reason to pay attention at the same time.
How to wear them and when to shop
The sandals work well styled with Ganni’s current summer collection, which leans into the same color energy and relaxed femininity. They also pair naturally with Melissa’s jelly handbags if a full coordinated look is the goal. Beyond brand-specific styling, the shoes are flexible enough to work with linen sets, printed midi skirts, or even a simple white dress.
For anyone planning to shop the drop, May 18 at 7 a.m. ET is the window to watch. Both the Melissa and Ganni websites will carry the full collection, and given the pre-launch buzz, moving early is a smart approach. Limited-edition collaborations between brands with this level of following rarely stay in stock for long, and restocks are not guaranteed.
Jelly sandals have earned their place back in rotation this summer. With Melissa and Ganni behind this particular version, they are arriving with better materials, better design, and a better argument than ever for taking up space in your shoe rotation.
