I'm Fed Up with Dull Feet—These 6 Chic Sandal Trends Will Be the Highlight of Your Summer Wardrobe.
We're now at the midpoint of 2026, and we've checked off quite a few items from our spring-to-summer transition list. Spontaneous heatwaves? Check. Unpredictable showers? Check. Misjudged jacket decisions? Double check. However, one thing is clear from the weather fluctuations over the past few weeks: sandal season is definitively upon us. If your feet are not yet pedicure-ready, consider this your early warning. Regardless of whether you're donning a blouse and jeans or shorts and a tank top, sandals are currently the most practical and stylish footwear option. There’s nothing quite like storing away your winter boots in the wardrobe to make room for a hot summer.
With the myriad of sandals available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Should you invest in a smart heel perfect for wedding season? Are flip flops too informal for the office? Is the wedge truly as trendy as everyone is saying? Fortunately, I've done the research for you and compiled some of the standout sandal trends of the season to simplify your choices. Whether you're packing for a trip or gearing up for summer in the city, these sandals will elevate your warm-weather attire.
1. Bare Minimal
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Celine)Style Notes: It's always a breath of fresh air when a fashion trend emerges that requires minimal effort from the wearer, and barely-there, minimalist sandals are set to be a significant hit in 2026. This trend reflects our appreciation for brands like The Row, Khaite, and Jil Sander, emphasizing 'less is more' while allowing your outfit to shine. Standout styles include the classic black flip flop and lightly strapped flats; whatever shape you opt for, aim for a muted color palette of black, white, and cocoa brown for timeless versatility.
Shop Minimalist Sandals:
THE ROW
Beach Leather Flip Flops
These are surprisingly hard to find in a full size range.
Toteme
T-Strap Nappa Sandals in Desert/Dark Brown
Available also in black, red, and white.
It's hard to believe the price on these.
Crocs
Miami Two Strap in Black
Just when you thought Crocs only did maximalism.
FitFlop
Women's Iqushion Ergonomic Rubber Flip-Flops
The comfiest sandals I’ve ever owned are from FitFlop. Thank me later.
2. Beads. Beads, Beads
(Image credit: Laucnhmetrics/Balmain)Style Notes: While you may not be ready to fully embrace the khaki safari trend, you can still nod to it with beaded sandals. These embellished sandals have a free-spirited vibe that can breathe life into even the simplest outfit. Though you may not be able to traverse the Serengeti in Jimmy Choo kitten heels, you can still channel the adventurous spirit while exploring the city.
Shop Beaded and Embellished Sandals:
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Esther Bead-Embellished Jelly Thong Sandals
H&M
Bead-Detail Strappy Sandals
The orange and brown color combo truly stands out.
Jimmy Choo
Lova Mule Flat
Perfect with a tank top and relaxed denim.
Free People
Riviera Beaded Sandals
They pair beautifully with green jeans.
M&S
Suede Beaded Ankle Strap Gladiator Sandals
These are sure to bring a smile just by looking at them.
3. Textural Attraction
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Moschino)Style Notes: Fans of minimalist sandals, look away now. If you thought a basket bag was enough, raffia and woven sandals are making waves this year, and they pair delightfully with your cotton dresses and linen trousers. This summer, you’ll find slippers, espadrilles, and even heels made of raffia, evoking a handwoven quality reminiscent of artisans in an old town. While Moschino's full pom pom sandals shown here may not be the most practical choice, these textured sandals are surprisingly versatile and can spark a great conversation.
Shop Raffia Sandals:
Easy, flexible crochet combined with sturdy leather.
Zimmermann
Carousel Raffia Espadrille Slides
Dune London
Loupe - Natural
Dune's popular Loupe sandal is now available in natural raffia.
These Sézane mules have an unmistakably French flair.
M&S
Leather Woven Flat Open Toe Mules
M&S consistently gets comfy footbeds spot on.
4. Little Bow Peep-Toe
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Missoni)Style Notes: Elegant! Classy! Refined! Peep-toe footwear is the style equivalent of a dry martini—retro yet sophisticated. Brands like Jude are reviving the peep-toe style, leading to a surge in popularity among A-listers and influencers alike. They provide a great option for warmer days in
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I'm Fed Up with Dull Feet—These 6 Chic Sandal Trends Will Be the Highlight of Your Summer Wardrobe.
Sandal season has officially arrived, and if you're looking to stay stylishly ahead of the crowd, here are the summer shoe trends to be aware of right now.
