So-called "ugly" trends have been reigning supreme for the last couple of years. Sporty trainers, knitted tank tops, tie-dye prints and quilted coats are just some of the trends that may have initially raised eyebrows but are now adored by fashion types. This is also the case when it comes to spring/summer 2023's most prolific shoes.
Chunky sandals started making tracks a few years ago when Teva's double-strap sandals flooded our feeds. Chanel also brought out its own pair of chunky sandals, which, although emblazoned with the iconic double Cs and finished in bouclé, still fell under the "ugly"-but-somehow-chic category. More recently year, The Row's Ginza platform-sole flip-flops became a status symbol.
I watched on, assuming chunky sandals would disappear as quickly as they came. However, as we approach another glorious summer, they're still at the top of the sandal agenda. I'll admit I was sceptical at first, but now, I'm a chunky-sandal convert. Having finally invested in my own pair, I've been looking for inspiration on how to wear them, of which I've found plenty, though the following suggestions are perhaps my favourites. From some of Instagram's best dressers, the below chunky-sandal outfits will earn you countless compliments this summer.
1. WHITE DRESS + GOLD JEWELLERY
Style Notes: For laid-back afternoons in the sun, toughen up a pretty white dress with a pair of strong black sandals.
SHOP THE LOOK:
I predict this dress will quickly become a Uniqlo bestseller.
Gold hoops are an integral part of the fashion-person uniform.
Matte finishes always look so premium.
2. TANK TOP + WIDE-LEG TROUSERS
Style Notes: Balance out the proportions of wide-leg trousers and chunky sandals with a sleek slim-fit tank top.
SHOP THE LOOK
If you hate tucking tops into jeans, this Zara essential is a lifesaver.
I think these look so expensive.
The leather stitching really elevates this pair.
3. BLACK BLAZER + BAGGY JEANS
Style Notes: Baggy jeans are a huge trend this season—keep them from looking too Jesse Pinkman by adding a smart blazer.
SHOP THE LOOK
A black blazer is always worth the investment.
Reformation's denim deserves way more attention than it gets.
Not quite as chunky, but the cleated sole adds some edge.
4. SLOUCHY BLAZER + MATCHING TROUSERS
Style Notes: Give your suiting a downtime spin with the addition of a pair of chunky sandals, just like Monikh Dale.
SHOP THE LOOK
The oversized silhouette of this blazer allows for low-key styling.
I’m always drawn to pleated trousers.
These comfy sandals are responsible for our newfound love of flip-flops.
5. BASIC VEST + DENIM SHORTS
Style Notes: I’m dreaming of the days when I can leave the house in a pair of denim shorts and a vest top and feel comfortable in the temperature. When that day comes, this is the look I’ll be replicating.
SHOP THE LOOK
A staple.
Mom jean shorts are always more comfortable.
I’m here for the moulded sole on these shoes.
6. BLACK DRESS + MINIMAL ACCESSORIES
Style Notes: All-black outfits never fail to look stylish. Here, the simple pairing of black sandals and a cotton minidress is effortless to assemble but impactful on the eye.
SHOP THE LOOK
Between the cut outs and flutter sleeves, this dress is near perfect in my eyes.
A little good hardware never hurt anyone.
Yes, M&S has some excellent sandals this season.
7. RUFFLE BLOUSE + HIGH-WAIST JEANS
Style Notes: A milkmaid blouse and jeans is the outfit I reach for when I don’t know what to wear. And now, I know which shoes to pair with it.
SHOP THE LOOK
Such a cute top.
Dark denim always looks super sophisticated.
Beige sandals present a softer alternative to jet-black but are no less versatile.
8. SHIRT DRESS + SHOULDER BAG
Style Notes: It doesn't get much more effortless than a breezy shirt dress, especially if you team it with slip-on sandals.
SHOP THE LOOK
This shirt dress will prove invaluable to your summer aesthetic.
A handbag big enough for all your essentials without being cumbersome.
These are guaranteed to appeal to minimalists.
9. SLIP SKIRT + T-SHIRT
Style Notes: When I become fatigued of jeans, the first thing I grab is a slip skirt—and I plan on giving my collection of slinky midis structure with some chunky flip-flops like Lucy Williams's.
SHOP THE LOOK
The tee our editors always recommend.
Floral prints will never go out of style.
Another sleek sandal courtesy of the high street.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: I'm on the Hunt for Anti-Trend Sandals—Here Are 20 I've Seen and Loved
-
Sambas Aren't a Trend Anymore—They're a Staple: Here's How to Wear Them in 2025They've become a classic.
-
This Shoe-and-Tights Faux Pas Is the Fashion Rule Stylish People Love to BreakSome rules are made to be broken.
-
5 Winter Basics to Own If You Refuse to Follow TrendsOur forever favourites.
-
So You Bought a Suede Bag—Here Are the Affordable Ways to Keep it Looking Brand NewRestore your prized possession to its former glory.
-
5 Ways I'm Wearing This Classic Jacket Style Now and Well Into SpringThe styling possibilities are endless.
-
European Women Rely on This Elegant Coat Trend to Look Polished in Winter—18 of the Best for Every BudgetA modern classic.
-
6 Winter Outfits That Are Guaranteed to Make You Look RichFrom a designer-loving editor.
-
I Never Thought I'd Wear These "Ugly" Shoes, But I Was Wrong—8 Ways to Style ThemThey're selling out like crazy.
