I’m Refreshing My Flat Shoe Collection—Here Are the Only 5 Styles I’ll Choose for Summer.

      If you know me, you’re aware that I have a slightly unhealthy obsession with shoes. I’ll attend designer sample sales and purchase pairs that I realize will become decorative items instead of comfortable all-day wear. I tend to buy the same style in various colors if available, and I own more heels than my nights out (or lack thereof) necessitate. However, after dealing with a moisture issue in a previous home, I had to say goodbye to some of my cherished footwear. The upside? There’s now space for a few more pairs this season.

      That said, I'm a bit tired of hauling around shoes that I no longer wear, so I’m searching for flat options that I can actually incorporate into my everyday wardrobe. Thus, I hunted for the essential flat summer shoes and discovered that caged jellies are making a major comeback (my 7-year-old self is thrilled), slipper mules are as comfortable as they sound, and for flip flops, two-tone styles are set to stick around. Adding hassle-free ballerinas and pinched-toe loafers gives me the five flat shoes to purchase for summer 2026.

      1. **Caged Jellies**

      Style Notes: While traditional flip flops have their place, caged jellies are emerging as a stylish alternative to the toddler-style buckle shoes of past years. I admire how Chloe has styled hers within the 'unexpected red theory' alongside a monochrome shorts and t-shirt combo that distinguishes her from the crowd.

      Shop the Trend:

      - **ASOS DESIGN**: Asos Design Luminous Jelly Caged Ballets in Red

       These have sold out multiple times on Asos and are now back in stock.

      - **Tory Burch**: Mellow Flat Mules

       I knew I needed these as soon as I received the email about them this week.

      - **COS**: Cut-Out Jelly Ballet Flats

       My younger self would have loved these.

      - **Ancient Greek Sandals**: Sandals Jelly Iro Ballet Flats

       Clear styles work with just about any outfit. The burgundy shade feels more sophisticated.

      2. **Pasty Loafers**

      Style Notes: After referring to these as 'pasty loafers,' I can’t help but see the resemblance between the ruched, pinched toe and the crust of a pasty—though, of course, they are far more chic. Made famous by Saint Laurent, I often opt for these on days when neither sandals nor traditional loafers are appropriate—meaning when the UK weather is uncooperative.

      Shop the Trend:

      - **M&S**: Suede Ruched Block Heel Loafers

       I can picture pairing these with dusty pink linen trousers.

      - **Massimo Dutti**: Embossed Leather Loafers

       I adore the crackled finish on this pair.

      - **Mango**: 100% Suede Leather Loafer in Sand

       Hello, new summer office shoes.

      - **SAINT LAURENT**: Le Loafer Logo-Embellished Leather Loafers

       Had to include the originals.

      3. **Boring Ballets**

      Style Notes: To clarify what I mean by 'boring,' these ballets are timeless, classic, and incredibly chic, but compared to the various ballet flats we’ve seen lately—mesh, buckled, ruched, and satin—these pairs lean more towards the traditional. However, that doesn't diminish their charm when styled with a sleek outfit, like Hannah's [above].

      Shop the Trend:

      - **COS**: Minimal Leather Ballet Flats

      - **JIL SANDER**: Ballerina Prince Leather Flats

       This is the ideal pair from Jil Sander.

      - **ZARA**: Flat Leather Ballet Flats

       They’d look great with balloon pants and a Broderie top.

      4. **Split Personality Sandals**

      Style Notes: Two-tone flip flops are here to stay, largely thanks to The Row, and there are now various color combinations available. Monikh selects blue and black, but you can find yellow and black, clear and green, among other combinations. These indecisive pairs are versatile for styling.

      Shop the Trend:

      - **Reformation**: Amelia Flat Thong

       They come in half sizes, which is appreciated by many.

      - **A.Emery**: Kinto leather thong sandals

       The kind of chic you’ll keep forever.

      - **ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS**: Jelly Flip Flops

       Green and clear is my new favorite mix.

      - **Massimo Dutti**: Mid-Heel Sandals With Toe Divider

       These have a slight wedge, which I’m okay with.

      5. **Nan's Slippers**

      Style