It might technically be spring for a few more weeks, but my wardrobe and I are fully engaged in summer mode, and nothing feels quite as good as putting away my knee-high boots for another year and breaking out my warm-weather shoes in celebration of sandal season. In the Who What Wear office each of our editors have their own impeccable sense of individual style that spans everything from refined minimalists to experimental maximalists, but one thing we can all agree on is the power of a good sandal to transform an outfit, and whether you’re sitting in the park, dressing up for dinner or running errands, as soon as the sun is out, a summer sandal is the reliable foundation that we can build the rest of our look around.
It is now widely known that I’m the team’s self-appointed shoe correspondent given the amount of time I spend trying on, buying, and reviewing shoes, and with an overflowing wardrobe holding everything from high-street heels to Prada loafers, I’ve got a well-trained shoe-trend radar. But when it comes to finding the right summer sandal, there’s one designer brand that crops up time and time again on every “best shoe” list.
I have a working theory that spotting a piece once is a statement, twice is a “moment”, and anything more than three times is a certified trend, so it would appear from a cursory tally on Bond Street this week that Gucci sandals are everywhere this summer. You know them from the moment you spot them, either a green and red stripe, a monogram logo print or interlocking GG hardware–Gucci sandals are undoubtedly designed to be seen.
From the original horsebit adorned pumps of the 1950s to the ubiquitous mule-meets-loafer that sent everyone into a tailspin in 2015, Gucci have given us a whole host of iconic shoes that would change the way we dress forever. Thanks in part to the recent tenure of Alessandro Michele, the Gucci shoe went from a retro throwback to one of the most sought after pieces on the market, shaking things up with brand new artistic flair and all of the pattern-clashing appeal of a Wes Anderson movie. What’s not to love?
While we wait with bated breath to see where Michele’s successor Sabato De Sarno will take Gucci next after Alessandro’s departure in February 2023, it’s clear that he has the same eye for design that makes Gucci accessories quite so covetable, and the stars of his first Cruise show in Seoul were undoubtedly the lacquered and embellished bags and chunky logo boots not designed for wallflowers.
But, it isn’t all logomania, and those looking for “quiet luxury“, there’s something for you too. This season there are neutral leathers, minimalist flat sandals and just the slightest hint of sparkle for evening. And fans of a shoe that prioritises comfort will love the chunky, low block-heels that are equally as special for evening, but will last all day too. In short, there is something for everyone.
So, should you be ready to trade in your flip flops for a luxury sandal worth investing in, I’ve put together an edit of the very best Gucci sandals on the market now. Wear them with dresses, skirts and wide leg trousers, or take notes from the street style set and wear with tailoring, pops of colour and artisan detailing, the perfect uniform for la dolce vita. So, pour yourself an Aperol spritz and keep scrolling to see the Gucci sandals we’re currently obsessed with and how the fashion set are style theirs. Bonus points if you spot a Jackie bag.
Style Notes: No matter the outfit, a pair of metallic shoes and a matching bag always look party-ready.
Style Notes: Whoever said socks and sandals were exclusively for grandads clearly hadn’t seen this look.
Style Notes: Make your sandals the star of the show by wearing head-to-toe block colour and contrasting your shoes.
Style Notes: I feel at least 50% happier just by looking at this mix of colour, texture, and print clashing.
Style Notes: Keeping it simple? Gucci’s instantly recognisable logo print makes for a point of interest.
Style Notes: Just about every great Gucci sandal comes in multiple colourways, so you can switch up your entire look with just the change of a shoe.
Simple, chic, stylish.
Brown or black, brown or black.. they’re both so good. (But there’s also cream and pistachio green too.)
Elegant with no hardware required.
If you’re going to go all out, you can’t ignore the classic Gucci logo print.
Brand new for this summer, a fresh take on the raffia trend.
Just add shorts and an oversized shirt.
These are just so cute!
You had me at the crystals.
The colour clash is just so clever.
An Instagram and influencer favourite.
Perfect for those with an aversion to platforms.
Perfect with everything from midi dresses to wide-leg flares.
I’m mule obsessed, and these are part of the reason why.
LOOK. AT. THAT. GOLD. HEEL.
These are a guaranteed conversation starter.
Such a pretty shade of powder blue, but the white are just as cool.
