Now that we’re being treated to some nice spells of sunny weather, many of us are starting the search for the perfect pair of summer sandals. If you are just starting out on your mission, or have been searching for years but are constantly left disappointed, we’re here to cut out hours of trawling the internet to find you the perfect pair.
We’ve put together the ultimate shortlist of the sandals that will see you through the entire season and many more summers to come. After a debate in the Who What Wear office, our fashion editors decided that there are five styles of sandals that will see you through every warm-weather occasion coming up this year.
First up, we have the flat, slip-on sandals that have been favourites for many seasons, followed by the archival appeal of fisherman sandals, which will work for coastal walks or a day of window shopping. Then, on the other end of the sandal spectrum, we have the ultimate dress-up-dress-down shoes—kitten heels—and heeled platforms, both ideal for any weddings you have coming up this year. Last but not least, we have chunky flip-flops, which perfectly bridge the gap between smart and casual.
Scroll below to shop our edit of the five sandals that will see you through the entire summer.
Style Notes: When you’re not stepping out in easy flats, elevate your look with a pair of platform sandals. Right now, fashion people are particularly fond of styles with cork soles and clog details.
An ode to raffia.
Cream and off-white sandals are key.
Platform clogs are a winner this season.
Use these to elevate any denim.
Espadrille heritage brand Castañer has also adopted platforms as its own this season.
Style Notes: Love it or hate it, the fisherman sandal is here to stay. I’m in the ‘love’ camp, mostly because they go with literally every outfit I put together.
This pair has been a favourite for a few seasons now.
The genuine article.
Pair with your floatiest floral dresses.
Khaki green makes for an interesting but no-less versatile choice.
Dear Frances definitely knows how to make a covetable shoe.
Style Notes: If you’re looking for a shoe you can slip on and off with minimal effort (and still look chic), consider slide-on sandals. These are best reserved for days outings involving minimal walking, as they’re admittedly not the most supportive style out there.
Holiday ready.
These look really expensive, don’t you agree?
So fun!
I’m always drawn to contrast stitching, and these sliders are no exception.
Can you tell we’re seriously impressed by & Other Stories’ sandal offering?
Style Notes: Scared of stilettos but seeking a dressy footwear option? Enter the kitten heel. This dainty design is unlikely to make you wobble when you walk, but is just as elegant as a high heel.
My dream shoes. Period.
These go with pretty much everything.
Hands down the sweetest kitten heels out there right now.
Guaranteed to be a popular style.
The perfect pop of colour to liven up jeans and a tee.
Style Notes: Unless you spend zero time on Instagram, you’re likely already aware of the ‘elevated flip-flop’ trend. This casual shoe now comes in leather and suede, featuring details such as buckles and espadrille-style soles. We’re here for it.
Perhaps my favourite high street pair.
Let’s all raise a glass to the design that reignited our love of flip-flops.
