Welcome back to our World’s Best Shoppers series—a monthly feature where we tap into the shopping leaders of the fashion world—from the best fashion buyers to fashion directors—for sartorial insight on what to buy each season. These shopping experts are always two steps ahead of the fashion curve, they’re savvy to every brand under the sun, and they’re on top of all the latest seasonal trends before everyone else. Today we’re gaining insight from our world's best shoppers on the must-have shoes to add to our carts this season. From this season’s trending sporty sandals to staple Birkenstocks with a cool twist and must-have strappy sandals that go with everything in your closet, take a look below for plenty of shoe inspiration to get you excited for the sunny season ahead.
Elizabeth von der Goltz: Global Buying Director, Net-a-Porter
"For this summer, I am shopping from our Jet-a-Porter shop, which includes all must-haves for any occasion. Specifically, the Saint Laurent Paris Minimalist leather sandals in metallic are perfect for a summer night out or can be paired nicely with a dress for a more formal office look."
"I adore the new Alighieri Leone Embellished Grosgrain and Canvas Espadrilles. Alighieri did such an amazing job with its new venture into footwear, which we are carrying exclusively at the moment. Any of the espadrilles are a must for this summer!”
Lisa Aiken: Fashion Director, Moda Operandi
"I'll be reaching for a refined sandal in a clean silhouette from the recently launched Studio Amelia. I love the barely there straps and the brand's practical approach. Each pair could be worn with nearly anything in my closet."
Tiffany Hsu: Fashion Buying Director, MyTheresa
"I love our exclusive yellow heels from Neous, which are the perfect height and go with pretty much everything—pants, skirts, dresses, you name it."
"I also love Wandler's new shoes which launched just two weeks ago. The high-shine fabric and square cut toe are super flattering and make a workwear outfit feel extra special. Opt for this pair in ecru or a daring neon-green, which is the color of the summer."
"Finally, By Far's PVC mules are the perfect finishing touch to every outfit. I love the unusual shape, and they're also incredibly comfortable."
Caroline Maguire: Fashion Director, Shopbop
"I have been eying these Marni sporty sandals. I love the embossed snake detailing in red—it's the perfect neutral for summer."
"I recently purchased these slim naked sandals from Alexander Wang. I think they are the perfect height to dress up for day to night."
Aisling McKeefry: Head of Design, ASOS
"These chunky ASOS Design camping sandals are my go to run-arounds for the summer. Comfortable and stylish! The neon techy material acts as a great accent to a neutral outfit."
"I cannot wait to rock these at many a summer occasion! Animal print with a square toe and of-the-moment splayed heel—these shoes really have got it all!"
Natalie Kingham: Fashion and Buying Director, Matchesfashion.com
"Birkenstocks have long been a summer vacation staple, and I'm very excited about this collaboration with Marie-Louise Scio from Il Pelicano hotels. This raffia style provides an interesting yet relaxed addition to your vacation wardrobe. I'll be sure to be wearing these in my travels this summer."
"Hiking sandals are a key trend for this season, bringing practicality to summer footwear options. We have been seeing some great options from The Row, Marques Almeida and Joseph, and a standout from me is the collaboration between designer Cecilie Bahnsen and Suicoke. I love the mix of the feminine beading with the utility of the sandal shape."
Rebecca Brewer: Senior Buyer, FWRD.com
"I'm really loving the new square-toe trend this season. These heels are simple, classic, fresh, and will be perfect paired with any outfit."
"Paris Texas Knee High Boot—this Italian-made shoe brand won't break the bank. Everyone needs a great snakeprint shoe, and why not get a pair in a fun color? You can pair these boots with ripped jeans and a tee or even a party dress!"
Up next, the world's best shoppers share what we should buy for summer.
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