I'm Calling It—Everyone's Going to Be Wearing This Affordable Shoe Brand This Summer

If there's one thing you can count on among Who What Wear editors, it's that we can't say no to a good pair of shoes. Heels, mules, and flats, whether they're expensive or wildly affordable, have stolen out hearts (and closet space) for years. I have to admit, though, there's a special feeling I get when I stumble across a brand that checks all of my sartorial boxes while still coming in well under $200 for my favorite pairs.

Enter Sam Edelman. In the midst of the brand celebrating its anniversary this year and on the tails of a highly celebrated campaign with Kylie Jenner, the brand has drawn me in, and I find myself on its site more and more drooling over a pair or two. Naturally, I decided I'd put some of the internet's most-raved-about pairs from the brand to the test—including the brand's classic silhouettes alongside trendy, editor-approved styles.

Below, read my full review of the best Sam Edelman shoes, and shop some of the brand's chicest pairs. Trust me, you won't want to miss this.

Sam Edelman Michaela Gem Mary Jane Flat

I was more than willing to test-drive Sam Edelman's viral Michaela Gem Mary Jane Flat. While I've collected my fair share of embellished and studded ballet flats over the last few months thanks to the ever-growing trend, I have to admit this pair might take the cake. It's incredibly soft and comfortable, much like the brand's non-studded version. If you have wide feet like I do, I'd recommend sizing up, but other than that, this iconic shoe runs quite true to size.

Sam Edelman Kasey Square Toe Ballet Flat

If this shoe could speak, it would tell you that it has a second vacation home on Lake Como. This pair looks rich—like, trust-fund rich. The understated, minimalist leather silhouette of the shoe looks perfect with a pair of socks (I test-drove the ballet-flats-and-socks trend myself!) or on its own, as shown below. Plus, the baby heel gives you a slight lift, which is always appreciated. I've truly never gotten as many compliments from my co-workers as I did on this pair.

Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pump

When it comes to Sam Edelman shoes, the brand's high heels and kitten-heel styles have been raved about on TikTok for being ultra comfortable while remaining chic and cool. The classic Bianka slingback is no exception. Since it's one of the brand's best sellers, there are a dozen colors to choose from, but naturally, as an edgier soul, I decided to test-drive the silver pair I'd seen on the soles of other editors on my feed. I wasn't disappointed. I walked a full seven miles in these from day to night, and without any blisters straight out of the box, they took me from a morning coffee date and press previews to late-night dinner at Balthazar. If that isn't an impressive feat, I don't know what is.

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