Apologies, Flip Flops—6 Summer Shoe Trends Once Considered "Dated" That the Fashion Set Has Just Revived for…

      I can't help it; I'm a classicist, and when it comes to shoes, I often prefer to stick with timeless styles to allow the rest of my outfit to stand out. As soon as summer arrives, I instinctively reach for one choice—a simple black flip-flop, which I wear repeatedly with nearly every ensemble until the weather turns too cold for exposed feet. Imagine my surprise, then, when the newest shoe trends of 2026 not only included styles we’ve seen previously but also those we had officially dismissed as 'outdated'. If you need any more evidence that fashion is cyclical, the comeback of the 'outdated shoe' should make it clear. However, in the interest of maximizing the utility of the pieces in our wardrobes, I might have discovered a reason to retire my black flip-flops (at least for this summer) and embrace the nostalgic shoe trend.

      While browsing through the feeds of some of social media's most stylish people, I noticed the same summer footwear appearing repeatedly, so I compiled a list of the most popular options. From practical flats to updated classics, none of the shoes I’ve listed are brand new, but the way they’ve been reimagined for 2026 gives them a completely fresh vibe. Interested in seeing which styles made the list? Keep scrolling to discover the 6 summer shoe trends returning in 2026. You might be just as surprised as I was.

      1. Leather Clogs

      Style Notes: After noticing Iris Law, Kendall Jenner, and Zoe Kravitz sporting shiny, smooth, round-toed leather clogs over the past eight months, I’m reconsidering this bulky trend. These shoes remind me of gardening clogs, yet their 'anti-fashion' demeanor ironically makes them quite trendy. I usually see this refined version of the Boston clog styled with loose trousers and an equally oversized top, but in summer, they can look incredibly stylish paired with a white linen shirt and an ankle-length maxi skirt.

      Shop Leather Clogs:

      - BIRKENSTOCK 1774

      + Sftm Amsterdam Leather Clogs

      These are currently filling my 'For You' page.

      The suede finish adds a chic touch.

      - Chocolate Brown Forever Comfort® Leather Clean Footbed Clogs

      Chocolate brown pairs well with almost anything.

      These would look great with a plaid shirt and relaxed jeans.

      - FitFlop

      Women's Shuv Leather Clogs

      If you haven't tried them yet, FitFlop shoes are guaranteed to be among the comfiest you’ve ever worn.

      2. Derby Shoes

      Style Notes: Could Celine have already given us the viral shoe of the year? It’s quite possible, as I’ve lost track of how often I’ve seen their lace-up ballet shoes featured by influencers and editors over the last month. A 'smart shoe' has always been a staple in our collections, whether it’s a loafer, slingback, or court shoe, but this season, the focus is on glove-like lace-ups with minimal details, paying homage to Celine's elegant Derby style.

      Shop Derby Pumps:

      - CELINE

      Ballet Lace-Up Shoe in Lambskin

      This shoe initiated a certified trend.

      - ARKET

      Soft Leather Lace-Up Shoes

      Almost entirely sold out!

      Deep cocoa brown is sure to elevate your wardrobe again.

      - LEMAIRE

      Souris Flat Classic Derbies in Leather

      The slight point adds a dressier touch.

      This entire look is worth recreating for spring.

      3. White Shoes

      Style Notes: As a nod to the '80s, white shoes once had a reputation for being reserved for the ultra-conservative and slightly outdated dresser. In 2026, however, white shoes have transformed into sharp, clean pops that often take center stage in an outfit. And the charm of such a minimalist shoe? White complements just about everything, from vibrant colors to an all-white ensemble. I’m confident that fresh white shoes are essential for your warm-weather wardrobe.

      Shop White Shoes:

      - BOTTEGA VENETA

      Vesta Leather Mules

      Bottega can do so much with such a simple shoe.

      With features like caged leather and an almond toe, these look quite designer.

      - EMME PARSONS

      Delice Leather Flat Sandals

      If you’re not familiar with Emme Parsons' sandals, these are a fantastic introduction.

      - COS

      Strap-Detail Leather Pumps

      - Veronica Beard

      Clea Leather-Trimmed Wedge Thong Sandals

      Y2K wedges are making a comeback, and in white, these are the ultimate nostalgic shoes.

      4. Gorpcore Shoes

      Style Notes: Easily the most divisive trend on this list, gorpcore shoes stand in stark contrast to the polished 'ladylike' footwear that has dominated runways over the past year. This category includes hiking boots, toe shoes, climbing trainers, and utility sandals, describing functional outdoor gear (essentially,