Ask Any Fashion Girl—She'll Own These 7 Basic Pairs of Sandals

Summer sandal season feels like it's within reach (on certain days), and this year, the lineup of styles on offer is more varied and plentiful than ever.

I used to be a "two or three pairs a summer" girl. Beachy flip flops, everyday leather slides, and then strappy heels for the evening would be sufficient to see me through. But as the plethora of styles has widened and acceptance of super-comfy summer sandals been given the green light by designers, it feels like there are gaps in my summer shoe-drobe that deserve to be filled.

Some classics are still sitting high in the charts and won't be going anywhere (like leather sliders and block-heel sandals). Although, we're pleased to see plenty of updates here in terms of brands and style, like Arket's super-thin strappy block heels and By Far's Brigette cylinder heels. While we've seen "dad" velcro sandals before this summer, they're set to be cooler than ever all thanks to Prada's heavy-duty and heavily documented pair.

Fresh in the mix this season, grown-up thong sandals are must-have because they are so much more fun than simple flip flops. They're coming in just about all forms—from quirky mules (with a very naked foot) to lace-up ankle wedges (á la Chloé's Wave Degradé sandals).

There are more mules without the thong-front arriving in every possible silhouette, heel height and colour. From Brock Collection + Tabitha Simmons's pretty florals to Mango's square-toed leather mules that Instagrammers are backing, you'll easily be able to find your perfect pair.

Scroll and shop all the best summer sandals we've found this season.

Block-Heel Sandals 

We can always rely on a pair of faithful block-heel sandals. Great for weddings, holidays, workwear and just about any other summer event in the diary, they have that dressed-up feel without the pain. Joseph's Farrah sandals will look perfect with knee-length jean shorts whilst & Other Stories' square-toed lace-up sandals are the ideal floral-dress partner.

Strappy Flats 

These super-strappy flat sandals have made a real appearance this year. Consider them like updated gladiator sandals. Just like Lindsey Holland pictured here, we're a real fan of delicate ankle ties (as she has on her H&M sandals), however, if you'll find these too impractical there lots of buckled styles around; starting with Zara's snake-print version.

Mules 

All hail summer mules. A firm favourite since last summer with the fashion set, they're finally everywhere. We couldn't be happier, with plenty of varied sculptural heel shapes like By Far's Sonia cylinder heels to & Other Stories' razor-thin heeled sandals. From Pernille's luxe Chanel slip-ons all the way to Topshop's orange vegan loop sandals, there's a chic option at every price point.

Summer Slides

We'll never tire of our faithful slides, and this season's iterations are keeping us on our toes. Charles & Keith is bringing new shapes with knotted fronts while Loewe proves we're still in love with a good logo.

Chunky Sports Sandal

"Ugly" sport sandals are set to take over this summer (thanks for this one, Prada). We've got a feeling they're going to be a bit like Marmite, but if you're up for comfy and lots of Velcro, then jump on board.

Related: I Have a Theory That Right Now Is The Best Time to Buy a Bikini

Thong Sandals

From classic flip flops to lace-up-the-leg styles and the newest of them all—thong mules—it's safe to say this summer there's a lot of between-toe-action happening when it comes to summer sandals. We've noticed this style in particular feel much more grown-up and elegant than past summers and we're already giving it a try.

Strappy Stiletto's 

Strappy stilettos have undergone a seriously sassy makeover. They're strappier then before with thinner stiletto heels and have the power to make your legs appear a fair few inches longer. Jacquemus, YSL and Attico are among the few we have to thank for these wonderful creations, and we're thrilled there's plenty of these to go around.

Want more summer-style greatness? Check out these 18 dresses we're buying in time for summer.

Opening Image: @carodaur