My non-fashion friends just asked me what the best leather sandals of the season were and I had a lot to say about it.
There's always that shoe. The one that quietly dominates every wardrobe for a season, popping up on pavements, in front-row photos, and on all the best dressed people you pass in cafés. Autumn has its loafers, winter gets all snug and booted up—but when spring hits, sandals step in (quite literally) to remind us that style doesn't have to be heavy-handed. And this year, the best leather sandals are doing more than just filling the seasonal slot—they're setting the tone for the entire outfit.
There's something deliciously optimistic about sandal weather. It means we've survived the long slog of winter and we're slowly edging back into our social selves. Dinners that start in daylight, weekends spent outside (ideally with wine), and a sense that getting dressed doesn't have to be about shielding yourself from the elements. And while you might be tempted to dig out last year's worn-in favourites, the 2025 runways have quietly made the case for a refresh—with a few leather sandals emerging as some of the most wearable and genuinely cool trends of the season.
But here's the catch. Finding the best leather sandals can be a bit of a minefield. Between the toe-post styles that are almost too minimal, the chunky pairs that err on practical, and the heeled options that look great but rarely survive more than two hours, the sweet spot isn't always obvious. Add to that the overwhelming number of options, from designer labels to high-street gems, and it's understandable if your 'Add to Basket' confidence is wavering.
Luckily, spring 2025 has made it easier. The runways were peppered with sandals in every iteration—from Ferragamo's sleek ankle straps (styled with sharp tailoring and low-slung skirts) to the elevated takes on fisherman styles at Gabriela Hearst and JW Anderson. And off the catwalk, the street style set has been quick to follow suit. We've spotted A.Emery's Jalen sandals everywhere from Sydney to Shoreditch, and The Row's cultish Ginza sandals continue to earn their spot as a quiet favourite among editors, stylists and anyone who's ever flirted with a Phoebe Philo-era wardrobe. Even the more nostalgic Y2K thong styles have returned—but reimagined in premium leathers and smart, adult-friendly colourways.
Leather, whether buttery soft or textured like suede, always adds that something extra. It wears in beautifully, lasts for years, and brings a polish to even the most low-effort look. Of course, not everyone's budget stretches to designer, and that's where the high street really delivers. Brands like Arket, COS and Mango are offering genuinely well-made options that mirror the mood of the season—clean, unfussy, and quietly directional. Think less Instagram bait, more "I just have great taste".
So, where to begin? I've narrowed it down to five of the most relevant sandal styles this season—all of which tick the boxes of comfort, style and wearability. From suede textures to slide-on ease, these are the best leather sandals to know about now.
Shop The Best Leather Sandals:
1. Suede Leather Sandals
Style Notes: Suede sandals bring a tactile softness to spring outfits, offering a subtle contrast to crisp cottons and linens. They're ideal for those transitional days when the weather can't quite make up its mind. The A.Emery Jalen sandal, with its criss-cross straps and moulded footbed, is a prime example of this trend.
Shop Suede Leather Sandals:
Crafted from premium suede, these sandals feature a toe hold and criss-cross straps, providing both comfort and style.
A bohemian take on the suede sandal—this olive colour is also trending for spring 2025.
Elevate your look with these suede sandals, combining the softness of suede with a touch of sophistication.
With a natural leather sole and suede straps, these sandals offer a rustic charm that's hard to resist.
2. Leather Thong Sandals
Style Notes: The minimalist thong sandal has made a strong comeback, shedding its early-2000s beachwear image for a more refined, urban appeal. Think sleek lines, quality leather, and a barely-there silhouette that pairs effortlessly with everything from tailored trousers to flowing dresses.
Shop Leather Thong Sandals:
A luxurious take on the thong sandal, featuring a Japanese-inspired design with a calfskin strap and footbed.
These heeled thong sandals are high on my wish-list.
These sandals look far more expensive than their price tag.
This par is tapping into the powder pink colour trend of the seaoson.
3. Leather Fisherman Sandals
Style Notes: Once considered purely utilitarian, the fisherman sandal has been reimagined for the fashion-forward crowd. Its closed-toe design offers more coverage, making it a versatile choice for unpredictable spring weather. Pair with cropped trousers or midi skirts to balance its sturdy silhouette.
Shop Leather Fisherman Sandals:
Crafted from soft leather with a cushioned insole, these sandals provide comfort without compromising on style.
A classic design from a heritage brand, offering impeccable craftsmanship and timeless appeal.
Simply stunning.
These Fisherman slides are the best of both worlds.
4. Leather Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: Leather heeled sandals are the closest thing to a wardrobe cheat code. Whether you're dressing up denim or giving a structured skirt a softer finish, they do the heavy lifting in the outfit without looking like they're trying too hard. On the runways, we saw them styled with everything from sheer socks (Miu Miu and Molly Goddard made a surprisingly strong case) to barely-there slip dresses. Day or night, they just work.
Shop Leather Heeled Sandals:
These have been a go-to among fashion insiders for years—and for good reason. The sturdy heel and thong toe are quietly directional, and they go with everything.
Reiss's offering hits that sweet spot between elevated and everyday. The barely-there strap and block heel make them wearable from AM to PM—no emergency flats required.
A minimal strappy silhouette that nods to '90s styling (Rachel Green would've worn these with a silk midi and fitted cardigan).
If you like your sandals sleek and simple, this one's for you.
5. Leather Slide Sandals
Style Notes: Slide sandals have come a long way from poolside territory. In high-quality leather, they feel intentional and grown-up—especially when worn with wide-leg trousers or a crisp poplin shirt dress. Bottega Veneta's chunky versions set the tone a few seasons back, and since then, brands from Arket to Ancient Greek Sandals have run with it.
Shop Leather Slide Sandals:
These are equal parts Scandi minimalism and Riviera holiday energy. Add a linen co-ord and you're done.
A high-street hero. The wide straps give them a designer feel, minus the designer price. Ideal for airport dressing too.
Handmade and subtly unique, these are the kind of slides that only get better with time. The natural leather will patina beautifully with wear.
I mean, come on!
-
Everyone Will Copy J.Law and Wear This "Ugly" Shoe Trend With Jeans and TrousersStarting at just $20.
-
If You Run Into Me This Summer, There's a Good Chance I'll Be Wearing One of These 7 Incredibly Cool Sneaker OutfitsBalancing comfort and style.
-
I Just Wore Those Viral Jelly Shoes That Are Selling Out Everywhere for 9 Hours—This Is What Shocked MeHere's my firsthand review.
-
Not to Be Dramatic, But These Are the Only 35 Summer Sandals That MatterTo me, at least.
-
Stylish Women in L.A., London, and Lisbon Agree: This Is How to Wear Sandals With Trousers in 2025Free your toes.
-
These Are *the* 14 It Shoes of Summer 2025Ask any fashion person.
-
A Guide to Summer's Big 4: Sunglasses, Shorts, Sandals, and SwimwearFrom timeless staples to right-now buys.
-
Hold Up—31 Classy Nordstrom Shoes That Dropped Just in Time for SummerNeed a shoe update? Look no further.
