Stylish dressers are combining their summer dresses and denim shorts with these popular sandal colors.
It doesn't take a trend forecaster or fashion expert to recognize the dominant shoe style this season—sandals. The real value of their insights, however, lies in discussing the top summer sandal color trends for 2026. This era is characterized by intense vibrancy, from the dazzling teals and turquoises of Costa Smeralda—Italy's “Emerald Coast”—to the bright orange cocktails that fill East London's pub gardens and the vivid hues that crowd the beaches of the South of France. It’s a season imbued with warmth and richness, and this applies equally to the footwear chosen during these months.
Until now, much of the attention has been focused on the specific sandal types trending this summer. We have enthusiastically discussed the rise of jelly thongs, the increasing popularity of red-and-black flip-flops, and the newfound appreciation for beaded sandals, which were once seen as tacky. However, specific summer sandal colors that are emerging have received relatively little focus—that’s where we join the conversation. In recent weeks, we have noticed a significant move away from subtle neutrals such as tans, moles, and blacks in favor of sweet, vibrant shades that better reflect the season's mood. If your plans include enjoying lush greenery, lounging at a beautiful cove, or soaking up the blue skies, why not let your sandals reflect those vivid colors? Without further delay, here are the 5 main summer sandal colors trending in 2026, according to fashion editors.
1. **Muted Gold**
**Style Notes:** The rise of the "casual tiara" shows that fashion is taking on a royal flair. The best example is Chloé’s striking jelly mules, aptly described as an adult version of the dress-up shoes children wear while pretending to be their favorite Disney princesses. Thus, the increase in popularity of muted gold sandals comes as no surprise. Imagine if Belle from Beauty and the Beast wore Amina Muaddi flats; these sandals exude glamour, royalty, and accessibility.
**Shop the Trend:**
- Emme Parsons Susan Metallic-Leather Sandals: A shade and style even minimalists can appreciate.
- Mango Metallic Funnel-Heel Sandal: A design approved by Hailey Bieber.
2. **Crisp White**
**Style Notes:** Though it is a universal color, white often faces criticism when it appears in footwear. Terms like “cheap,” “tacky,” and “dated” are frequently applied to white pumps, heels, and loafers. However, this summer, white confidently stands out as one of the favored sandal colors. Given that Pantone named this shade color of the year, can there be any doubt about the return of the chic white sandal? While it may require more care to keep clean, polished options from Toteme, Christen, and The Row prove they are a worthy investment.
**Shop the Trend:**
- A.EMERY Nolan Leather Sandals
- Reformation Pina Flat Sandal: Delightfully charming and polished.
- M&S Kitten Heel Toe Post Sandals: Mark my words—white heeled flip-flops are going to be highly sought after until September.
3. **Chocolate Brown**
**Style Notes:** There’s a rebellious trend of wearing colors that run counter to the season. We've seen this with the popularity of khaki jeans, burgundy bags, and cobalt trousers, and now, chocolate brown sandals are making an appearance this summer. This softer yet still deep shade provides a gentle brightness and contrasts well with darker black tones. You can find this look in A.Emery Jalen sandals, Le Monde Beryl Valetta suede sandals, and Saint Laurent Babylone lace-up suede sandals embellished with logos.
**Shop the Trend:**
- A.EMERY Jalen Suede Sandals: Quite possibly the most comfortable sandals you'll ever wear.
- Sezane Gloria Low Sandals
- TOTEME T-Strap Leather Flats
4. **Capri Blue**
**Style Notes:** Blue in summer is akin to Matthieu Blazy’s connection to Chanel—a perfect match. This season, cobalt blue has emerged as a standout color, featured in the French maison’s 2026 Métiers d'art collection, Lucy Williams’ recent line with With Nothing Underneath, and the debut collection from new swimwear brand Rashi World. However, in the realm of sandals, we’re seeing a lighter hue, with Capri blue already making waves at Versace, Alaia, and Tory Burch. Look for it in Ancient Greek Sandals’ Iro sandals and Jimmy Choo’s new jelly flip-flops.
**Shop the Trend:**
- ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS Saionara Jelly Rubber Flip Flops: We are declaring these Jimmy Choo jellies the must-have shoes of the summer.
- Reformation Zoe Sage Sandal: This vibrant teal shade is
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Stylish dressers are combining their summer dresses and denim shorts with these popular sandal colors.
Neither black nor tan.
