Perhaps it’s that pedicure I’ve just been for, but at this precise moment, all I can think about are sandals. I’ve only invested in one pair in the past couple of years (a pair of chunky flip-flops, in case you were wondering), and now that summer is officially upon us, I now realise that I’m seriously lacking in the sandal department.
I only buy new sandals every other year, or longer if I can help it, so I can only assume that in 2019, I decided to rid myself of all my tatty sandals come autumn with the view of replenishing them in 2020—and we all know what happened next. Considering that l haven’t set foot on a plane, it’s only now that I see I neglected to refresh my sandals when I should have done.
There’s an upside to starting from scratch, though. It means I can invest in versatile styles that will form my core collection, pairs I’ll wear summer after summer. And there are a few categories I’ve set my sights on. From sexy slingbacks to comfy sliders, staples make up the majority of my sandal wish list. Still, there are a few trending pairs I’m tempted by, including ones with tie ankles, chain details and stacked soles. Scroll on to see what I think are the best sandals for women this summer, and perhaps you’ll be able to fill a gap in your own sandal collection as you go.
Style Notes: This season can be divided into two sandal camps, as this story will go on to prove, one of which is chunky sandals—stacked soles and thick straps. The other? Ultra-thin straps that look sultry, of which there are plenty out there to choose from.
These will go with every sundress you own.
Such a great colour.
The trend also works on flat sandals.
Style Notes: Suffice to say, I don’t know what I would have done without my chunky toe-post sandals this season—so much so that I think everyone should have a pair at their disposal.
This white pair will look gorgeous with a bright-red pedicure.
The pair that started it all: The Row’s Ginza.
I can confirm this M&S pair is incredibly comfortable.
Style Notes: I’m a sucker for tie details, and while they’re reigning supreme on tops and skirts, I’ve noticed they’re cropping up on sandals, too. I think they look their coolest worn with straight-leg jeans, much like Aimee Song’s.
The padded footbed on this pair will make you feel as if you’re walking on a cloud.
From the hue to the vinyl strap to the ankle tie, this pair feels so 2022.
The colour of the season.
Style Notes: While very much a new trend, sandals with delicate chains won’t date any time soon. Plus, it takes all the effort out of finding an anklet to match. I believe they call that a win-win.
This pair also comes in powder blue.
And this pair in silver.
If Bottega Veneta deems it appropriate, then you can bet it’s a sandal trend worth considering.
Style Notes: No sandal arsenal would be complete without a pair of go-with-everything slides. And trust me when I say leather or suede styles go with ev-ery-thing.
Dune’s Loupe sandals have been best sellers for years.
So chic.
I love the intertwining straps on this pair.
Style Notes: Chunky soles have begun to crop up all over the footwear scene and are a great way of adding height to your silhouette (especially if you’re not quite ready to step out in high heels just yet).
These also come in brown and ecru.
If in doubt, go Gucci.
I’m here for any moulded footbed.
Style Notes: Fisherman sandals are reigning supreme this year, with pairs from The Row all the way to Whistles catching our eye.
These look so high-end.
Another cult sandal courtesy of The Row.
Track soles are handy for traversing uneven terrain. I’d wear this pair to the beach and on country walks.
Style Notes: Nineties fashion trends tend to ebb and flow in popularity, but one that’s proving to be consistent is minimal mules. I prefer mine with midi heels, as they enhance the throwback vibe. Black and tan will always be what I gravitate towards, but there is something tempting about this hot-pink pair.
The angular lines on these mules feel so fresh.
Just wow.
The fastest way to dress up jeans and a basic tee.
