Summer’s here, and it’s time to free those toes! I’ve spent years watching footwear fashions evolve, and this season’s sandal game is stronger than ever. Whether you’re beach-bound or city-strutting, these 19 trending styles will elevate your warm-weather wardrobe from basic to brilliant.
1. Chunky Platform Slides
Remember the ’90s? They’re back on our feet! Chunky platform slides give you height without sacrificing comfort.
I’ve worn mine everywhere from beach parties to brunch dates. The thick soles actually cushion your steps better than those flimsy flip-flops ever could.
2. Rope-Detailed Flats
Nautical vibes without setting sail! Rope-detailed sandals bring seaside charm to landlocked outfits.
Though simple in design, these beauties pack a stylistic punch. The natural textures complement everything from floaty dresses to crisp white jeans with effortless grace.
3. Sporty Velcro Straps
Gone are the days when sporty meant unfashionable! Athletic-inspired sandals have stormed the runways.
Why suffer for style when you can strut comfortably? The adjustable velcro straps accommodate swollen summer feet while giving your casual looks an unexpected edge that fashion editors adore.
4. Barely-There Strappy Numbers
If minimalism speaks to your soul, these whisper-thin strapped sandals are your summer soulmates.
However, don’t be fooled by their delicate appearance! The strategically placed thin straps create visual interest while elongating legs. They’re practically invisible from a distance, creating that coveted barefoot-but-better look.
5. Sculptural Heels
Forget ordinary! Sculptural heels transform basic sandals into wearable art pieces.
While walking in these conversation-starters, I’ve collected more compliments than seashells at the beach. The unexpected shapes—from spheres to geometric blocks—instantly modernize even the simplest summer dress or jumpsuit.
6. Raffia-Woven Beauties
Natural materials reign supreme this season, with raffia-woven sandals leading the charge.
Though rustic in origin, these textured treasures feel surprisingly luxurious underfoot. The handcrafted details whisper of exotic vacations, even if you’re just popping to the grocery store in shorts and a tee.
7. Square-Toe Silhouettes
Angular and unapologetically modern, square-toe sandals have kicked rounded shapes to the curb.
Wearing these geometric gems instantly updates your fashion credibility. The clean lines create visual balance with floaty summer fabrics, while the unexpected shape proves you’re not afraid to embrace forward-thinking design.
8. Fisherman-Inspired Cages
What started as practical footwear for actual fishermen has netted serious fashion points this season!
Unlike their utilitarian ancestors, today’s versions come in candy colors and metallic finishes. The woven cage design provides unexpected foot coverage while maintaining breathability—perfect for those who aren’t quite pedicure-ready.
9. Retro Jelly Sandals
Childhood nostalgia gets a grown-up makeover with sophisticated jelly sandals in transparent hues.
Though I initially doubted their comeback, I’ve fallen head over heels! These waterproof wonders now come in elevated designs with architectural heels and minimalist straps—far from the playground versions we once knew.
10. Asymmetrical Straps
Symmetry is so last season! Asymmetrical strap arrangements create visual interest that conventional designs can’t match.
When wearing these architectural beauties, prepare for second glances. The unexpected strap placements draw the eye while creating unique tan lines that become accidental fashion statements by summer’s end.
11. Cork-Soled Slides
Eco-friendly and utterly comfortable, cork-soled slides have evolved beyond their hippie origins.
Through years of trend-watching, I’ve never seen such stylish sustainability! The natural shock absorption makes them ideal for summer adventures, while the earthy aesthetic pairs surprisingly well with everything from floaty dresses to tailored shorts.
12. Ankle-Wrapped Laces
Ballet-inspired laces that climb the ankle add drama to otherwise simple sandals.
Yet practicality hasn’t been sacrificed for style! The wrapping technique actually provides ankle support while creating a leg-lengthening effect. Just master the tying technique before attempting to dash for the ice cream truck.
13. Puffy Padded Straps
Cloud-like comfort meets high fashion with pillowy, padded straps that cradle your feet.
Against all odds, these cushioned creations have become style statements rather than orthopedic options. The voluminous proportions create visual interest while providing blister-free walks along boardwalks and cobblestone streets alike.
14. Western-Inspired Details
Yee-haw! Cowboy influences have galloped into summer footwear with unexpected appeal.
Though initially skeptical, I’ve embraced these frontier-inspired finds. The subtle western touches—from tooled leather to metal conchos—add character to basic sandal silhouettes without veering into costume territory.
15. Neon Bright Minimalists
Electric hues have jolted minimalist sandal designs out of neutral territory!
Where once I reached for black or tan, now I’m drawn to lime green and hot pink. These color-shock sandals require nothing more than simple denim and white basics to create an outfit that screams fashion confidence.
16. Grandma-Chic Comfort Soles
What once screamed “orthopedic” now whispers “fashion insider”! Comfort-first sandals have received the high-fashion treatment.
Having worn these cloud-like creations to fashion week events, I can confirm: the thick, molded footbeds actually improve posture while providing all-day comfort. Style without suffering is finally mainstream!
17. Macramé and Crochet Details
Handcrafted vibes dominate with macramé and crochet elements adorning summer footwear.
Beyond their bohemian charm, these textured treasures bring artistic flair to basic outfits. The intricate knotwork and woven patterns showcase craftsmanship that mass-produced styles simply cannot replicate—a welcome respite from fast fashion.
18. Lucite and Clear Elements
Transparency isn’t just for communication—it’s for fabulous footwear too! Clear elements create optical illusions that elevate ordinary sandals.
When wearing these see-through stunners, your feet appear to float magically above the ground. The invisible straps and heels make legs look miles long while adding futuristic flair to summer basics.
19. Toe-Ring Detailing
Jewelry for your feet! Toe-ring sandals merge accessories with footwear in one clever design.
While traditional toe rings require commitment, these built-in versions offer the look without the pinching. The metal detail draws attention to your pedicure while adding unexpected sparkle with every step along the shoreline.