Question for you: Have you ever sifted through the sandals in your closet and thought, Why do all my shoes look dated? We've all been there. However, we'd like to point out a fundamental difference between realizing our best pair of sandals must be taken to the cobbler and concluding that we never had any classic footwear from the jump. The latter can be particularly disheartening because it puts all of our spending into perspective. If the shoe trend we loved last season or the designer sandals we had to have last year suddenly feel dated, that's a bigger problem. We want anything we're buying to be part of our closets for the long haul, even seasonal items such as sandals.
Of course, we'll be the first to admit that it can be hard to discern what type of sandals are worth buying for spring—even more so when considering runway trends, budgetary limits, and everyday lifestyles. Nevertheless, there is one motto that can make sandal shopping easier: Less is more. Sure, it might seem like passé advice, but nothing beats the enduring allure of simple sandals. Refer to the popularity of minimalist sandals from quiet luxury brands such as The Row, Toteme, and Khaite as proof of their power! Therefore, the best way to ensure you never have those moments of frustration pillaging your closet in the morning ever again is to have a pair of minimalist sandals on hand.
But if you need clarification on which type of sandals can be considered minimalist, you'll want to keep reading. Ahead, we're breaking down six sandal styles that lean minimalist, making them ideal long-term investments. Plus, we've rounded up the 42 best minimalist sandals at every price point based on quality, versatility, reviews, and brand recognition. Prepare to fall in love with these sandals for a lifetime.
Flat Sandals
One type of sandal you want to make sure is part of your spring wardrobe is minimalist flat sandals. Look for a pair of flat sandals with a barely there silhouette and elevated hardware, ideally in neutral colors, as this will ensure that you can style them season after season.
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The small buckles add a sophisticated touch to these sandals.
These strappy flat sandals also come in black and white, FYI.
The perk of opting for minimalist sandals is that they can be styled with everything.
Such a steal.
You won't regret packing these for your next trip.
The metallic toe loop adds a little excitement to these otherwise minimalist sandals.
Of course, Khaite has the perfect pair of sandals for spring.
Strappy Sandals
What's another timeless sandal style you can turn to regularly? The strappy heeled sandal. It's become the spring footwear of choice among the fashion set because the silhouette can be styled with almost anything—from jeans and a T-shirt to a sundress. Just be sure to opt for a version of this shoe with barely there straps, minimal hardware, a comfortable heel, and a color that can be easily worn year-round.
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Two-toned T-strap sandals? Don't mind if we do.
Now, here's a slinky little sandal that you'll want to wear throughout spring and summer.
These sandals' creme hue ensures they will go well with your white sundresses and wide-leg jeans.
Red is a neutral in our books.
Currently at the top of our wish list.
Neous's minimalist sandals are the perfect long-term investment.
The gold hardware on these sandals is too damn good.
Thong Sandals
When you're unsure what to wear to the beach, brunch, or simply on a beautiful spring day, you always rely on one sandal style: thong sandals. Not only are these sandals incredibly functional (you don't typically have to worry about them being uncomfortable), but if you opt for a minimalist pair, they can be fashionable, too. In order to ensure the latter, avoid shopping for flip-flops made from plastic. Instead, look for versions made from leather with minimalist straps, neutral colors, and contemporary hardware.
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Every fashion person swears by these flip-flops for spring.
Perfect for a beach day.
A moment of silence for the buckle on these sandals, please.
The styling possibilities are endless with these simple sandals.
Nothing is bougier than a pair of butter-yellow thong sandals.
Although we're partial to the red version of these sandals, they do happen to come in nine other colors.
It doesn't get more timeless than a pair of black thong sandals.
Mule Sandals
One of the hardest things about footwear during spring and summer is discerning what type of sandal can be worn to the office—enter mule sandals. They're a bit more formal than a pair of flip-flops without covering your feet entirely during the warmer months. However, we recommend opting for a more minimalist pair to ensure that they don't catch the attention of your HR department (in the wrong way).
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Tamara Mellon's mule sandals have rave reviews in the comfort department.
Why choose between buying black and white mules when you can get the best of both worlds?
You'll wear these for years to come.
The angled heel gives these minimalist mules a little edge.
Can you tell we're suckers for sandals with buckles?
Buying a pair of black mules is never a bad idea.
Just think of all the ways you can wear these chocolate-brown mules.
Slide Sandals
For settings outside the office, you'll likely want an effortless option that you can throw on without thinking; slides can do just that for you. What's great about this footwear is that it's incredibly easy to move around in compared to heeled sandals—meaning you can wear them to your local farmers market or on a trip in the South of France. However, if you want to ensure they're as elegant as they are effortless, opt for minimalist versions of slides (i.e., non-chunky pairs made from more quality materials in neutral colors with very little hardware).
Shop Minimalist Slide Sandals
These slides have rave reviews among Nordstrom shoppers, so you know they're good.
Another great pair of two-toned sandals!
If you thought slides were too casual, let this chocolate-brown pair convince you otherwise.
You can also shop these slides in black, cream, and dark brown.
Consider this the perfect excuse to buy a pair Bottega Veneta sandals.
Pro tip: Look for slides with subtle details to make them stand out more—such as the pair above with its prominent knot.
We'd style these with a white dress and woven handbag.
Wedge Sandals
The final sandal style you can rely on to look good season after season is the wedge sandal. But we're not talking about the woven espadrilles we've come to associate with spring; instead, we're talking about contemporary iterations. In order to tap into a more minimalist aesthetic this spring, look for a version of this footwear made from leather featuring barely there straps, sculptural heels, and muted color palettes. Doing so will ensure that you look stylish throughout this season (and beyond).
Shop Minimalist Wedge Sandals
Sublime. No notes.
It's the sculptural heel that sold us on these sandals, TBH.
You can wear these to that upcoming baby shower or simply for a beautiful spring day.
Trust us, how much you'll end up wearing these wedges will make the price tag well worth it.
The wrap-up ankle strap is a nice touch.
No one will guess these wedges aren't designer.
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