Summer calls for a footwear refresh that balances style and comfort as temperatures rise. I’ve spent years helping fashion-forward folks step up their warm-weather game without sacrificing comfort. Ready to transform your summer look from the ground up? These 18 shoe styles will revolutionize your wardrobe faster than you can say ‘pedicure appointment.’
1. Espadrille Wedges
Nothing screams ‘summer sophistication’ quite like an espadrille wedge! The natural jute sole gives these beauties a breezy vacation vibe even when you’re stuck in the city.
I’ve worn mine from beachside brunches to rooftop parties without a single blister. They elongate legs while actually letting you walk more than three steps – revolutionary, I know!
2. Strappy Flat Sandals
Though seemingly simple, a well-crafted pair of strappy flat sandals can transform any outfit from basic to breathtaking. The minimal design works with everything from floaty sundresses to crisp linen shorts.
Where function meets fashion, these versatile companions let your feet breathe while keeping your style game strong. My advice? Invest in quality leather – your feet will thank you!
3. Raffia Slides
If effortless chic had a poster child, raffia slides would be it! These textured treasures add instant vacation vibes to even the most mundane Monday outfit.
Hence my obsession with collecting them in various colors. The natural material keeps feet cool while the slip-on style makes them perfect for those ‘running late but still want to look put-together’ mornings we all experience.
4. Canvas Sneakers
Where comfort meets style, canvas sneakers reign supreme in my summer footwear lineup. They’re the Swiss Army knife of shoes – practical, reliable, and surprisingly versatile.
However, don’t just grab any old pair! Look for unique details like contrast stitching or colored soles. I’ve walked miles exploring European cities in mine, proving good style doesn’t have to hurt.
5. Block Heel Mules
Whoever invented block heel mules deserves a fashion Nobel Prize! These backless beauties offer height without the wobble of stilettos, making summer cocktail parties actually enjoyable.
Though often overlooked, they’re secretly the hardest working shoes in my closet. The slip-on design feels delightfully rebellious while the structured shape keeps everything polished – talk about having your cake and eating it too!
6. Minimalist Thong Sandals
Forget everything you thought about flip-flops – today’s minimalist thong sandals are the sophisticated older sister of those rubber pool shoes! With whisper-thin straps and quality materials, they’ve undergone quite the glow-up.
How do they transform outfits so effectively? The barely-there design elongates legs while letting your pedicure take center stage. I keep three neutral colors in rotation all summer long!
7. Chunky Platform Sandals
Though they might seem intimidating at first glance, chunky platform sandals are secretly the most comfortable height-boosters in my summer arsenal! The substantial sole distributes weight evenly, preventing that dreaded ball-of-foot burn.
If you’re wondering how to style them, the answer is: with absolutely everything. The unexpected contrast of substantial shoes with floaty summer fabrics creates that coveted fashion-forward edge every outfit needs.
8. Braided Ankle-Wrap Flats
Imagine ballet flats went on a Mediterranean vacation and came back with a sun-kissed upgrade – that’s the magic of braided ankle-wrap flats! The woven details and leg-enhancing ties create visual interest that basic shoes simply can’t match.
Hence my addiction to these romantic little numbers. The soft ties can be styled multiple ways – wrapped high for drama or low for comfort. They’re particularly magnificent with midi skirts for that goddess-on-holiday effect!
9. Sporty Water Sandals
Who said practical can’t be stylish? Today’s sporty water sandals have undergone a serious fashion makeover! No longer just for river rafting, these quick-dry wonders now come in chic colors and sleek designs.
Though I initially bought mine for a beach vacation, they’ve become my go-to for summer thunderstorm days and spontaneous fountain splashing. The cushioned footbed feels like walking on clouds while the secure straps keep everything in place during adventures.
10. Woven Straw Flats
If summer had an official shoe, woven straw flats would surely claim the title! These textural delights bring natural warmth to any outfit while keeping feet remarkably cool in the heat.
However, don’t mistake them for basic beach shoes – today’s versions feature reinforced soles and cushioned insoles for city-worthy comfort. I’ve paired mine with everything from casual denim to silk dresses, proving their chameleon-like versatility.
11. Sculptural Heel Sandals
When ordinary heels just won’t cut it, sculptural heel sandals enter the chat! These architectural wonders turn even the simplest outfit into a walking art installation with their unexpected shapes and visual drama.
Though they appear complicated, the best versions are surprisingly wearable. My current favorites feature a curved wooden heel that garners compliments everywhere I go. For maximum impact, let these statement-makers shine with simple, solid-colored outfits.
12. Luxe Leather Fisherman Sandals
Fisherman sandals have graduated from childhood memories to fashion’s current darling! The woven cage design offers foot-covering modesty with summer-appropriate ventilation – truly the best of both worlds.
If you’re hesitant about this trend, start with a sleek leather version in a neutral tone. The closed toe makes them office-appropriate while the cutouts keep things breathable. I wear mine with everything from tailored shorts to flowing maxi dresses!
13. Printed Canvas Espadrilles
Why settle for basic when your feet could be wearing a masterpiece? Printed canvas espadrilles bring playful personality to summer footwear with their eye-catching patterns and comfortable construction.
Though often relegated to casual beach wear, these spirited shoes can elevate simple outfits with minimal effort. My striped pair transforms plain white dresses into nautical-chic ensembles, while my floral versions add unexpected pop to neutral linens.
14. Clear Strap Sandals
Magic happens when clear straps enter the footwear chat – suddenly legs look longer and shoes appear to float ethereally on your feet! These barely-there wonders create the illusion of nakedness while actually providing support.
Though they might seem intimidating, clear strap sandals are surprisingly versatile workhorses. The transparent elements disappear visually, making them perfect partners for busy outfits or those times when you can’t decide which color shoe works best!
15. Retro-Inspired Jelly Shoes
Nostalgia with a modern twist – that’s the magic of today’s elevated jelly shoes! These playful throwbacks have evolved from childhood memories to fashion statements with improved materials and sophisticated designs.
If rainy summer days constantly ruin your footwear plans, these waterproof wonders are your solution. The glittery versions add unexpected sparkle to casual outfits, while the matte options offer subtle texture that works surprisingly well with dressy looks.
16. Rope-Trimmed Wedges
When coastal charm meets walkable height, rope-trimmed wedges are born! These nautical-inspired stunners wrap your feet in summer’s most beloved textures – woven rope, smooth leather, and sometimes a touch of canvas.
Though they appear substantial, the best versions feel surprisingly lightweight on foot. My navy pair has accompanied me to countless outdoor weddings without sinking into grass or causing pain. For styling, they’re magnificent with everything from tailored shorts to breezy maxi dresses!
17. Macramé Flatforms
When bohemian texture meets architectural structure, macramé flatforms steal the spotlight! These textural wonders combine the height of platforms with the stability of flats, wrapped in summer’s most tactile material.
Though they make a statement, they’re surprisingly versatile partners for summer staples. The natural fiber detailing elevates simple linen dresses or adds earthy balance to sleek minimalist outfits. For vacation packing, they’re absolute gold – one pair works with everything!
18. Embellished Evening Slides
Forget uncomfortable strappy heels – summer evenings call for embellished slides that deliver glamour without the pain! These decorative beauties prove flat shoes can be just as dressy as their towering counterparts.
How liberating to dance all night without foot agony! The best versions feature high-impact details like crystal embellishments, intricate beading, or metallic accents. I keep mine visible in my closet as they’re practically jewelry for your feet – too pretty to hide away!