We’re already in the middle of August and, without trying to sound pessimistic, it looks like summer has left just as it got started. After enduring a winter filled with long, dark and hatefully cold nights, summer has fallen short of its promised sunny respite. To adapt, our woollen jumpers remain close at hand and our summer sandals have been thrust back into the depths of our wardrobes.
As rain clouds appear throughout the day, strappy sandals simply can't withstand the moody weather. Enter: the closed-toe shoe. From dainty ballet flats to stylish mary janes, a good pair of closed-toe shoes can shield you from the elements whilst simultaneously polishing your look.
The fashion crowd have been embracing closed-toe summer shoes for many seasons now, for an alternative take on summer styling. But this year, perhaps out of necessity, closed-toe styles have reached universal appeal. Clogs are on every corner, closed-toe slingbacks are in all the best mirror selfies, and retro trainers are back like it’s the '70s.
To avoid having to live out the rest of the summer months in soggy sandals, or succumbing to cladding your feet with chunky boots for lack of inspiration, read on to find our edit of the best closed-toe shoes for summer 2024.
THE BEST CLOSED-TOE SHOES TO TRY THIS SEASON
1. CASUAL CLOGS
Style Notes: This closed-toe shoe style has risen to cult-status in recent years. Style with a pair of low-slung jeans or breezy linen trousers for a comfortable ensemble that you won't want to take off, even at the end of day.
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This easy slip-on style is back in stock and also available in dusty pink, grey and tan.
The perfect pair of casual clogs.
Free People's comfortable version of the classic clog has risen in popularity in recent months.
Such a Scandi vibe.
2. BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: Ballet flats have had a makeover and 2024's styles feel totally fresh. Composed of sleek leathers and deeper front-cuts that elongate the foot; ballet flats are the new season It shoe that have made their way into all of our shopping baskets.
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Equal parts charming and playful, a good pair of ballet flats can give your outfit a polished edge that few other shoe styles can achieve.
You can't beat a leopard print shoe.
We can't resist this gleaming pair.
Style with socks for a preppy look.
3. RETRO TRAINERS
Style Notes: This year, cult favourites from the '90s and '00s have re-emerged to an extent that very few of us realised was possible. As our wardrobes begin to morph into those which we owned twenty years ago, it’s not surprising that the retro trend has permeated our shoe collections, too. Buzzy collaborations like Adidas x Wales Bonner have cemented the retro trainer as the #1 style to add into your wardrobe this summer and beyond.
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Cool and casual, these trainers are at the top of our wish list.
We're witnessing a New Balance renaissance and we couldn't be happier.
Yellow trainers are the ultimate fashion flex.
Nothing beats a pair of classic white trainers.
4. SMART LOAFERS
Style Notes: A mainstay in any autumn wardrobe, it makes sense that loafers are appearing on the streets a little earlier this year as we face this rather mild summer. Ideal for retaining a polished edge to your look, loafers will fair a drizzly day with more grace than any sandals.
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These chunky loafers are so versatile.
We love the scrunch detail.
The patent finish is extra sleek.
The perfect classic loafers.
5. POINTED SLINGBACKS
Style Notes: Elevate your look (literally) with a pair of classic heels. From micro to maxi, the heel height isn't what counts. This season it's all about wearing pointed-toe, slingback styles that could be found in your wardrobe for decades to come.
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Red shoes are having a moment.
At last, kitten heels are back in style.
Tick off two trends in one with a pair of mesh slingbacks.
Toteme shoes always catch my attention.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
