Perhaps it's that pedicure I've just been for, but at this precise moment, all I can think about are sandals. I've only invested in one pair over the past couple of years (a pair of chunky flip-flops, in case you were wondering), and now that summer is officially upon us, I realise that I'm seriously lacking in the sandal department.
I only buy new sandals every other year (or less often if I can help it), so I can only assume that in 2019, I decided to rid myself of all my tatty sandals come autumn with the view of replenishing them in 2020—and we all know what happened next. Considering that l haven't set foot on a plane in years, I'm only now seeing that I neglected to refresh my sandals.
There's an upside to starting from scratch, though. It means I can invest in versatile styles that will form my core collection, pairs I'll wear summer after summer. And there are a few categories I've set my sights on. From sexy slingbacks to comfy sliders, staple sandals make up the majority of my wish list. Still, there are a few trending pairs tempting me, including pairs with tie ankles, chain details and stacked soles. Scroll on to see what I think are the best sandals for women this summer, and perhaps you'll be able to fill a gap in your own sandal collection as you go.
1. THIN-STRAP
Style Notes: This season can be divided into two sandal camps, one of which is chunky sandals—stacked soles and thick straps. The other? Ultra-thin straps that look sultry, and there are plenty out there to choose from.
These will go with every sundress you own.
Such a great colour.
The trend also works on flat sandals.
2. TOE-POST
Style Notes: I don't know what I would have done without my chunky toe-post sandals this season. I think everyone should have a pair at their disposal.
This white pair will look gorgeous with a bright-red pedicure.
The pair that started it all: The Row's Ginza.
I can confirm this M&S pair is incredibly comfortable.
3. ANKLE-TIE
Style Notes: I'm a sucker for tie details, and while they're reigning supreme on tops and skirts, I've noticed they're cropping up on sandals, too. I think they look their coolest worn with straight-leg jeans, much like Aimee Song's.
The padded footbed on this pair will make you feel as if you're walking on a cloud.
From the hue to the vinyl strap to the ankle tie, this pair feels so 2022.
The colour of the season.
4. CHAIN-DETAIL
Style Notes: While very much a new trend, sandals with delicate chains won't date any time soon. Plus, they take all the effort out of finding an anklet to match. I believe they call that a win-win.
This pair also comes in powder blue.
And this pair comes in silver.
If Bottega Veneta deems it appropriate, then you can bet it's a sandal trend worth considering.
5. SIMPLE SLIDE
Style Notes: No sandal arsenal would be complete without a pair of slides that go with everything. And trust me when I say leather or suede styles go with everything.
Dune's Loupe sandals have been best sellers for years.
So chic.
I love the intertwining straps on this pair.
6. STACKED-SOLE
Style Notes: Chunky soles have begun to crop up all over the footwear scene and are a great way to add height to your silhouette (especially if you're not quite ready to step out in high heels just yet).
These also come in brown and ecru.
If in doubt, go Gucci.
I'm here for any moulded footbed.
7. FISHERMAN
Style Notes: Fisherman sandals are reigning supreme this year, with pairs from The Row all the way to Whistles catching our eye.
These look so high-end.
Another cult sandal courtesy of The Row.
Track soles are handy for traversing uneven terrain. I'd wear this pair to the beach and on country walks.
8. '90S MULE
Style Notes: '90s fashion trends tend to ebb and flow in popularity, but one that's proving to be consistent is minimalistic mules. I prefer mine with midi heels, as they enhance the throwback vibe. I'll always gravitate towards black and tan styles, but there's something tempting about a hot-pink pair.
The angular lines on these mules feel so fresh.
Just wow.
The fastest way to dress up jeans and a basic tee.
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