Summer’s here and your feet are begging for freedom! As a fashion stylist who’s seen countless warm-weather collections strut down runways, I can tell you sandal trends move faster than melting ice cream on a hot sidewalk. Ready to discover which sandals should stay buried in your closet and which deserve prime display space? Let’s jump into this season’s footwear dos and don’ts!
1. Chunky Dad Sandals Are Yesterday’s News
Remember when we all embraced those orthopedic-looking monstrosities? While comfortable (I’ll give them that), these clunky foot platforms scream 2021 energy. The fashion world has collectively moved on from these sidewalk stompers. Trust me, your feet deserve something with a bit more finesse this season.
2. Flip Flops With Rhinestones Are Taking a Vacation
Though once the pinnacle of pool-party chic, bedazzled flip flops have lost their sparkle faster than last year’s New Year’s Eve sequins. Where we once saw glamour, now we just see trying too hard. Perhaps it’s time to retire those toe-pinching, crystal-covered foam platforms to the back of your wardrobe.
3. Ankle-Wrap Gladiators Are Fighting a Lost Battle
Heavens, those endless straps wrapping halfway up your calf! What were we thinking? The Roman-inspired lace-up marathon required its own tutorial video. Nowadays, these complicated contraptions feel more like fashionable leg prisons than stylish statements. Skip the 20-minute sandal-donning ritual this summer.
4. Logo-Heavy Designer Slides Have Slid Out of Style
Ah, the era when we paid premium prices to be walking billboards! Those rubber slides with enormous designer logos plastered across the foot band are screaming “fashion victim” rather than “fashion forward.” Subtlety has triumphantly returned, making these loud foot advertisements feel painfully dated and somewhat desperate.
5. Rainbow Jelly Sandals Have Lost Their Shine
However nostalgic these plastic fantastic footwear options might be, the rainbow jelly comeback has officially fizzled. While adorable for the under-10 crowd, adults sporting these sweaty plastic foot traps appear stuck in a ’90s time warp. Besides, who wants the special torture of plastic-induced blisters?
6. Cork-Soled Buckle Sandals Are Floating Away
Though once the epitome of earthy-crunchy chic, those double-buckle cork-bottomed classics have become the unofficial uniform of the fashion disinterested. While undeniably comfortable (I’ve owned three pairs myself), these practical classics now read as the sartorial equivalent of giving up. Time for an upgrade, darling!
7. Platform Espadrilles Have Fallen Flat
Goodness, those towering rope-wrapped platforms we teetered around on! While they gave us magnificent height, these ankle-twisting monsters have toppled from fashion’s good graces. The excessive height combined with that distinctive rope wrapping now looks decidedly passé. Your ankles will thank you for embracing this season’s more grounded options.
8. Thong Kitten Heels Have Slipped Out of Style
Those dainty little heeled flip-flops that pinched between your toes while offering minimal support? Fashion history, darling. The awkward hybrid of business and beach never quite found its footing. Thankfully, we’ve collectively realized that toe posts and formal heels create a particularly uncomfortable partnership we’re better off without.
9. Clear Plastic Strap Sandals Have Become Invisible
Remember those “invisible” sandals with clear plastic straps? The ones that fogged up like bathroom mirrors and showcased every blister? Yeah, those foot terrariums are mercifully exiting the style scene. Between the sweaty condensation and the inevitable yellowing, these transparent traps were more science experiment than fashion statement.
10. Minimalist Leather Slides Are Stepping Into the Spotlight
If elegance whispered, it would sound like these beautifully simple slides slipping onto your feet. The clean lines and buttery leather of these understated beauties work with everything from sundresses to tailored trousers. Their versatility makes them the hardest working item in your summer wardrobe – effortless yet intentional.
11. Fisherman Sandals Are Catching Compliments
Forget what you knew about these childhood classics – they’ve undergone a sophisticated renaissance! The woven leather cage design offers a perfect blend of coverage and breathability while exuding vintage charm. Fashion’s current nostalgia kick has elevated these practical stompers into must-have territory. Pair with flowing dresses for delicious contrast.
12. Sporty Velcro Trekkers Are Hiking Up the Charts
Who knew those practical hiking sandals would become fashion’s darling? With adjustable straps and cushioned soles, these adventure-ready beauties have jumped from mountain trails to city streets. Their technical fabrics and bold colors make them irresistibly contemporary. Even luxury brands are creating high-end versions – pragmatic is the new chic!
13. Sculptural Heel Sandals Are Artistic Statements
Why wear ordinary heels when your sandals can double as conversation pieces? This season’s architectural heels transform basic footwear into wearable sculptures that would look at home in modern art museums. Whether glass-like spheres, geometric shapes, or twisted metal, these statement-making foundations elevate simple strap designs into extraordinary fashion moments.
14. Raffia-Accented Sandals Are Summer’s Natural Wonder
Mother Nature is fashion’s favorite designer this season! Sandals adorned with natural raffia details bring organic texture and beachy vibes to even the most urban outfits. The straw-like material appears as fringe, woven uppers, or decorative flowers. These natural accents deliver instant vacation energy without booking a flight – who doesn’t need that?
15. Square-Toe Mules Are Cornering the Market
Forget rounded edges – geometry is having a moment! These sleek slip-ons with their distinctive squared-off toes bring architectural precision to your summer wardrobe. The clean lines and open backs create a sophisticated silhouette that works beautifully with this season’s minimalist aesthetic. One step in these and you’ll feel instantly pulled together.
16. Puffy Padded Strap Sandals Are Cloud-Like Comfort
Imagine wearing pillows on your feet – that’s the delicious reality of this season’s padded strap trend! These cushioned beauties feature inflated-looking leather straps that add visual interest while feeling heavenly against your skin. The contrast between structured soles and marshmallow-soft uppers creates an irresistibly modern look. Comfort never looked so cutting-edge!
17. Metallic Accented Flats Are Shining Stars
Who says flat sandals can’t make a statement? This season’s metallics aren’t about all-over shine but strategic gleaming accents that catch the light with every step. Think gold hardware, silver trim, or bronze buckles against neutral leather. These subtle flashes of brilliance elevate simple designs from basic to brilliant without trying too hard.
18. Braided Leather Sandals Are Weaving Their Way In
Craftsmanship is taking center stage with intricately woven leather creating texture and visual interest. These artisanal-looking sandals showcase skilled handiwork through intertwined straps and braided details. The sophisticated technique elevates even the simplest designs. Bonus: the woven structure often provides unexpected flexibility and comfort while looking absolutely exquisite.