The sun is shining, you’ve picked out your chic summer outfit and all you need now is the perfect pair of stylish women’s sandals. Will you opt for super-comfortable walking sandals or something more trendy and fashion-forward? Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be one or the other.
“The two biggest priorities for a summer sandal are comfort and versatility,” says celebrity stylist Andrew Gelwicks. “You want to be able to wear your sandal from the pool to a restaurant, mix it with different outfits and not have to worry about them getting wet, going in sand or walking for extended periods of time in them.”
This versatility doesn’t just apply to different occasions or events but also to how they’ll function within your wardrobe. “Sandals are essential for summer,” personal stylist Alex Lamb says. “So when looking for the perfect pair, I like to find options that work with multiple outfits.”
Ahead, we consulted a handful of professional stylists on the sandals they’re eyeing this summer — all of which don’t just look great but will also support you throughout any and all summer adventures. Looking for more women’s shoes or men’s sandals? Not to worry, we’ve got you covered there too.
Flat sandals
If you’re looking for an everyday sandal that’s a bit more elevated than your go-to pair of Birkenstocks, stylist and fashion editor Roberto Johnson recommends this option. “With its minimal lines and supportive sole, you can wear these for walking around the city, without compromising sophistication and style,” he says.
Described by Johnson as one of his favorite “remixes” on thong sandals, the wraparound style of these shoes helps to keep your foot secure while still looking chic and minimalistic. “The sleek lines elongate and refine the foot,” he says.
“I like to look for elements in a shoe that will dress up even the most basic looks,” fashion stylist Julie Kraus says. “A metallic sandal is a perfect way to upgrade your everyday sandal.” And it can be paired with just about any summer outfit.
“I always recommend a sandal style that’s sturdy and can be worn all day for walking and beach-going,” stylist Allison Koehler says. “In general, a sandal with a sturdy footbed is very popular right now.” One of our long-time favorites is this option from Alohas, which is designed with molded footbeds and available in tons of chic color options.
This elevated fisherman sandal from Everlane is “comfortable enough for walking around while stylish enough for a social gathering,” Johnson says. The refined silhouette and smooth leather makes them a particularly sophisticated take on a more traditionally masculine style.
Gelwicks describes this slide as “elevated and timeless while also being functional and practical.” It’s the best of both worlds.
Available in tons of colors, “These are such a summer staple,” Lamb says. “[They're] casual for the pool but cool enough for running around. I love to throw on a flip-flop for that effortless, chic vibe.”
“For a fun summer vibe, you can opt for a dad sandal,” Lamb says, “which I find to be cool for an edgier look. The chunky straps pair well with a short outfit, jeans or a minidress.”
“A slide is a summer essential for sure,” Koehler says. “I love André Assous’ slides because they’re chic but so comfortable and super packable.”
When it comes to a neutral slide, “a raffia option is great to pair with white and monochromatic looks,” Lamb says. They’re super convenient and easy to slide on and off, making for a versatile travel shoe option as well.
Strappy sandals
“What I love about this sandal is that it’s a great neutral,” Kraus says. “Easy to throw on and go.” But its simplicity also gives it a timeless feel, perfect for lasting beyond just one season. “It’ll be a great go-to in your wardrobe with a lot of versatility,” she adds.
“These are my favorite go-to summer sandals,” Lamb says. Dress them up or pair them with a casual outfit, either way “they’re elevated, comfortable and so versatile.” Koehler also loves “the simplicity of this style,” which is available in a nostalgic yet modern jelly material or a slightly more dressy leather option.
Koehler recommends this simple yet stunning strappy sandal option that, as she explains, features the same elegant simplicity of high-end brands without the price tag. “They’re low enough that you can walk around in them and still be comfortable,” adds Lamb, who recommends sizing up if you’re between sizes.
“In the summer heat, you need a comfortable sandal,” says celebrity stylist Orlee Winer, who recommends this classic option from Boden. “I think every woman should have a simple strap sandal because it goes with everything.”
“This sandal offers a mixture of textures, which will add interest to a simple look, giving equal parts dimension and style,” Kraus says.
“Available in a variety of colors and at a price point you can’t beat, this strappy lace-up sandal is equal parts fun and modern,” Kraus says. “And it’s appropriate for both day and night.”
“This is a delicate sandal option that you can wear casually during the day or for an easy dinner,” Lamb says. They’ll look chic with nearly any outfit, though pairing with a matching linen set will make for that perfect effortless summer look, she adds.
Heel sandals
“This neutral knot-tied strappy kitten heel is one of my favorites,” Johnson says. “It’s so versatile and can be worn with almost everything, making anything look chic.”
Our beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw loves these strappy heels, which are one of the most comfortable pairs she owns. The padded nappa leather straps feel extra soft, while adding support.
When it comes to the types of sandals every woman should have, Kraus recommends “an open-toe heel to give you lift” that’s also dressy enough for dinners and nights out. This timeless option from Sézane is made in Italy and is perfect for pairing with summer dresses and skirts of any length.
“I love a wedge for summer, and André Assous' version is super lightweight and comfortable,” Koehler says. This espadrille option is handcrafted in Spain, comes in several woven colors and is perfect for both daytime and evening looks.
Both Gelwicks and Winer recommend this strappy sandal from Inez, which blends both style and comfort. “The straps feel sexy and elevated,” Gelwicks says, while “the blocked heel adds a more casual feel,” Winer adds. These sandals are a particularly perfect option for summer weddings and soirees — especially ones that might be taking place on grass or uneven terrain.
“This heel has a retro feel with a touch of classic in the pearl detail, making for a combination that feels unique, yet on-trend,” Kraus says.
“Thong sandals are a classic silhouette that have become extremely trendy,” Johnson says. And it has a heel, it “elevates it from casual to stylish,” he adds.
“Large floral appliqués have been everywhere,” Johnson says. This monochromatic, low-heeled sandals feature a stunning crocheted flower on each shoe that achieves a fashion-forward yet effortless look, he explains.
“This is the perfect staple heeled sandal for the summer,” Gelwicks says. “It's sleek, minimal, lightweight and comfortable. The braided twist on the side adds that extra element of gorgeous design that really amplifies every look.”
“I love that this sandal has a simple heel,” Kraus says. It’s elegant, sophisticated and the simplicity of the straps makes it a versatile yet “sexy shoe for a night out,” she adds.