"The most important part of your summer wardrobe is hands down your sandal arsenal. When the weather warms up and we can finally dust off our favorite pair, we’re reminded of how easy they make getting dressed. Simply put, sandals give the phrase “throw on and go” a whole new meaning. While we’ll always have our favorite sandal silhouettes, experimenting with a new pair, or finally trying out that trend you’ve been eyeing, makes the anticipation of summer all the more enticing.
This year’s sandal trends toe the line between practical and playful (the style shift from maximalism to minimalist is still true, but there’s now some wiggle room). For example, Miu Miu presented thong flip flops down its Spring/Summer 2024 runways, co-signing the style’s comeback, but you can expect to see them in toned-down forms (think: The Row’s Ginza Sandal). Forever styles like strappy sandals and slides will, of course, be in style, but modern forms put a spin on these with gold hardware or oversized platform soles. The most unexpected yet expected sandal trend goes to the fisherman sandal, which gained some popularity last year, but is now going strong.
Ahead, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about this year’s sandal trends, plus where to shop them.
1. Fisherman sandals
Ah, the fisherman sandal. Even though this style dates as far back as the Roman Empire, the chic woven design that simultaneously allows for breathability is why the silhouette’s newfound trendiness is a no-brainer. The fisherman sandal is the perfect ideation of fashion’s penchant for practicality while still feeling interesting and modern. We’d style them with anything from a breezy cotton dress to linen pants and a button-up.
2. Slingback Sandals
Function meets fashion with slingback sandals; they have a strap around the heel to secure the shoe in place as opposed to a slide that could fly off with the wrong step. These are ideal to wear while discovering a new city or walking in the park with friends because of their reliable strap. For those who love the comfort of slides but want something a tad more elevated, opt for the slingback style.
3. Sandals with Bling
Exaggerated jewelry such as large pendants, chunky earrings, and cuff bracelets have proved popular as of late, and this attitude has made its way to the footwear department. Styles with a touch of bling are the chicest sandal trend you’ll see this year—the slight shine adds a put-together feel that adds a bit of intentionality to an outfit while still appearing casual. Shoes with jewelry? Sign us up.
4. Strappy Sandals
Summer is the season of strappy sandals, period. Wear a heeled version to a summer wedding or opt for a flat pair for day-to-day; no matter what the case may be, they are a favorite style year after year for a reason. The key is to pair them with a bottom that allows them to have the spotlight such as a mini skirt, shorts, or a midi dress.
5. Platform Sandals
Maximalists, you can take a sigh of relief. Even though platform sandals are designated to the statement-making category, this year’s styles lean more minimalist finding the balance between the exaggerated sole and chunky exterior. Liking a platform shoe usually comes down to personal preference, however, this season’s silhouettes are arguably the most subtle yet and more functional than ever.
6. Flip flops
It’s true: Thong flip-flops are back in a major way. And yes, this includes your favorite $2 rubber pair from Old Navy. Equal parts nostalgic and minimalist, a thong flip-flop embodies summer’s carefree feel. The square-toed Havianas elevate the classic style with a geometric edge, and a leather pair feels especially grown-up. Try a pair with straight-leg jeans and your go-to white tank top for lunch with friends.
7. Sleek Slides
These aren’t your casual slides. The classic summer shoes got a sleek revamp, which is why they are a must-have for this summer. See: Raffia materials, leather, gold hardware, and minimalist styles that elevate the laidback sandal from being a throw-on pair to run errands in to a silhouette you’ll want to style with every outfit.
