No, not ballet flats or sneakers—fashion enthusiasts are opting for this flat-shoe trend to pair with their leggings instead.
As the seasons transition from spring to summer and the temperatures rise daily, I find myself gravitating towards an outfit combination I’ve always deemed reliable: sandals and leggings. Even as I read that back, I can almost sense your collective cringe. For many, this pairing likely brings to mind a very distinct image (think shiny, brightly colored spandex reminiscent of the VHS era, clashed rather aggressively with a painfully practical, chunky two-strapped clog). It’s a look that seems straight out of the ‘80s, an outdated relic that should be left untouched. However, the issue was never with the combination itself, but rather the way it was executed.
With its casual, laid-back appeal, the sandals-and-leggings pairing is actually one of the most stylish and resilient styling tricks around. Leggings are unparalleled in their comfort level, and a well-chosen sandal (particularly a trendy thong or classic strappy design) does the work necessary to ensure the outfit remains suitable for the season, banishing the discomfort of sweaty feet. This combo is as flexible as it is comfortable, complementing everything from flowing blouses to trendy raglan tops, which is why it continues to be a personal favorite year after year.
During this transitional phase, I've been seeing off-duty icons like Kendall Jenner and the most fashionable individuals on my social media feeds donning outfits featuring sandals and leggings. Whether topped with a leather jacket or a relaxed trench coat, they’ve offered a wealth of outfit inspiration this season. After sifting through numerous options, I’ve generated a list of 5 sandals and leggings outfits worthy of saving for a summer day, with shopping links included as well.
**1. Cropped Trenchcoat + Tank Top + Jelly Sandals**
**Style Notes:** This look combines a classic, polished trench coat with capri leggings and thong sandals, making it an easy-to-copy sandals-and-leggings outfit I consistently return to. It’s simple, elegant, and has a cool-girl vibe thanks to the rubber flip-flops; the neutral colors are perfect for the upcoming season.
**Shop the Look:**
- **HUGO BOSS**: Short Trench Jacket - A cotton-linen blend that will keep you cool throughout the summer.
- **lululemon**: Align™ High-Rise Crop 17" - Black - I wear these capri leggings at least once a week.
- **ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS**: Sayonara Jelly Rubber Flip Flops - Last summer's best-selling sandals are back in five different shades.
For spring and summer, we all crave fresh updates to our wardrobes, easily achieved with this eggshell shoulder bag.
**2. Tank Top + Flared Leggings + Suede Bag**
**Style Notes:** Flared leggings, endorsed by It-girl Kendall Jenner, pair perfectly with sandals. This look is undeniably elevated with a matching set and a brown suede tote bag, balancing the leggings' slim silhouette.
**Shop the Look:**
- **Alo Yoga**: Airbrush High-Waist Bootcut Legging - I recently tried these on, and they are as comfortable and versatile as they appear.
- Many It-girls, including Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber, favor The Row city flip-flop as their chosen sandal.
**3. Leather Jacket + Capri Leggings + Clutch Bag**
**Style Notes:** While black is always classic, adding color is a simple way to refresh your leggings-and-sandals look. For instance, Amaka Hamelijnck’s outfit matches brown leggings with subtly wedged sandals, exuding the 'IYKYK' ease we're all aiming for. Pair it with a grey sleeveless top, leather jacket, and a (faux) furry cow print bag for a look I'm eager to replicate.
**Shop the Look:**
- **Free People**: Vinny Vegan Leather Bomber - Made from vegan leather, this bomber jacket is a great blend of classic and modern and would work well layered over a blouse and skirt this spring/summer.
- **Entire Studios**: Chute Tube Top - I own this top and wore it frequently last summer; I recommend sizing up for added comfort if needed.
- **House of Sunny**: Knitted Capri Pants - The delicate lace adds a nice detail.
- **Miu Miu**: Printed Leather Pouch - If I won the lottery, this bag would be the first sign.
- **MANGO**: Wedge Leather Sandals - The slight wedge allows for dressing this sandal up or down easily.
**4. Red Jacket + Wedge Heels + Belt Buckle Bag**
**Style Notes:** Red bomber jackets have gained popularity, and an effortless way to style them is by pairing them with leggings and sandals. This is the epitome of dopamine dressing, allowing the jacket to take center stage.
**Shop the Look:**
- **Massimo Dutti**
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No, not ballet flats or sneakers—fashion enthusiasts are opting for this flat-shoe trend to pair with their leggings instead.
A combination of It-girls.