Death to Sandals: Add These Summer Shoes to Your Rotation

By: Aubrey Schwartz & Jordan McClendon

Lately, all we can think about is shoes. Especially shoes for the warmer months. There’s something about a summer shoe that reflects how you want to move through the season. Summer is the ultimate time to be on the go, and a simple sandal just won’t cut it anymore. This season’s footwear trends feel centered around personality, ease and having fun with fashion again.

Moving through the city with a shoe that can get you from the farmers market to late-night drinks is at the top of our priority list. And for those who are not always pedicure-ready (guilty), a transitional shoe, no matter the situation, will allow you to feel stylish while beating the heat.

We are all about versatility, so whether you are clinging to your closed-toed shoes or you’re dying to let the dogs out, we’ve compiled a list of breathable, comfy and stylish selections you can wear all season long.

Gone are the days of the boring white sneaker. While they had their heyday in 2020, and admittedly can go with anything, this season’s sneaker trends are all about color, slim silhouettes and breathable textures. Rocking an understated sporty shoe makes any outfit look and feel effortless. Styled with vintage denim, linen or slip dresses, these low-profile trainers will keep you cool in the summer, while also transitioning with you into fall.

Clogs

Clogs are making a strong return, but in a way that feels elevated rather than overly bohemian. Chunky platforms add texture and personality to airy dresses, oversized shorts, and relaxed pants, bringing even the simplest summer outfits to life. We would argue that clogs are among the most thoughtfully crafted shoes, as they offer stability and cushioning and are typically made with premium materials like leather and solid wood. Investing in a timeless and carefully crafted clog will last you multiple seasons for years to come.

Jellies

The jelly craze is notably one of our favorite textured shoes this summer. Seeing jelly shoes transition from toddlers to twenty-something fashionistas is proof that everything does indeed swing back. This soft and flexible textile brings a Y2K and nostalgic essence to any outfit while offering a sense of elevated play. A bright colored jelly shoe will upgrade any relaxed summer outfit, like a simple pair of shorts and a T-shirt, to an all-white linen look.

Wedge

Wedge sandals with or without a delicate slingback bring an easy elegance to summer dressing. Their soft textures and feminine shapes feel polished without sacrificing comfort, pairing just as easily with flowy dresses or everyday denim. Opting for a wedge with an out-of-the-box pattern, texture, or unique sculptural shape will easily become the heel alternative you’ll be reaching for all summer long.

Investing in reliable footwear to complement you during the long summer days is a must. Looking and feeling good head to toe, really does start with the shoe. It should complete the look, not just fill in the gaps. A reliable summer shoe can often feel like you need to opt for something minimal, yet in the end, you sacrifice your personal style. However, this season’s shoe trends are saying yes to both, investing in practicality and style.

Because at the end of the day, you’ll stand a little taller with a great pair of shoes.