Summer is all about easy and comfortable outfits.
And the right sandals can make a big difference. They can make a simple outfit look better, while still keeping you comfortable all day.
You do not need to follow every sandal trend. The best sandals are the ones that fit your style, your wardrobe, and your daily plans.
Some are perfect for the beach, some are great for walking, and some are nice enough for dinner or casual events.
If you want to refresh your summer wardrobe, here are 15 sandal styles that are easy to wear, comfortable, and always useful.
Contents
- 1. Braided Slides
- 2. Espadrille Wedges
- 3. Beaded Sandals
- 4. Strappy Heels
- 5. Studded Slides
- 6. Buckle Slides
- 7. Leather Slides
- 8. Rope Sandals
- 9. Sporty Sandals
- 10. Gladiator Sandals
- 11. Metallic Slides
- 12. Platform Sandals
- 13. Elevated Flip Flops
- 14. Cutout Slides
- 15. Thong Sandals
- How I Choose the Right Summer Sandals?
- The Summer Sandal Mistakes I Try to Avoid
1. Braided Slides
Whenever I want something simple that still looks stylish, braided slides are often my first choice. They have a relaxed appearance while adding texture and visual interest to an outfit.
What makes them so appealing is their versatility. They pair beautifully with jeans, shorts, linen pants, and casual summer dresses.
Why They Work?
Braided slides work because they look simple but still feel stylish. The woven detail adds texture, so the shoes don’t look too plain, even with a basic outfit.
They are easy to wear, comfortable for daily use, and perfect for casual summer looks. You can pair them with jeans, linen pants, skirts, or dresses, and they instantly make the outfit feel more relaxed, fresh, and effortless.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose braided slides in neutral colors like beige, tan, cream, or black because they are easier to match with many outfits. For a more polished look, wear them with linen pants, a flowy dress, or wide-leg jeans.
If you want your feet to look more elegant, pick a pair with a slightly square or pointed front.
They may be simple, but the braided detail makes your outfit look more stylish without trying too hard.
2. Espadrille Wedges
There are days when I want a little extra height but do not want to deal with uncomfortable heels.
Espadrille wedges solve that problem perfectly. They offer the lift of heels while distributing weight more evenly across the foot.
The woven texture also instantly creates a vacation-inspired summer feel.
Why They Work?
Espadrille wedges work because they give you height without feeling too formal or uncomfortable. The wedge design supports your feet better than thin heels, so they are easier to walk in for longer days.
The woven sole adds a relaxed summer touch, making them perfect for dresses, skirts, linen pants, or jeans.
They instantly make an outfit look feminine, fresh, and polished while still feeling casual and effortless.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose espadrille wedges in natural colors like beige, tan, cream, or light brown because they match easily with summer outfits.
If you want them to feel more comfortable, pick a pair with ankle straps for better support.
They look beautiful with midi dresses, flowy skirts, or wide-leg pants. For a simple but stylish look, wear them when you want extra height without making the outfit feel too dressy.
3. Beaded Sandals
Sometimes an outfit needs just a small decorative detail to feel complete. Beaded sandals can provide exactly that.
The embellishments add elegance without overwhelming the outfit, making them perfect for daytime events and summer celebrations.
Why They Work?
Beaded sandals work because they add a pretty detail without making the outfit feel too heavy. The beads give a simple look more personality, so even a basic dress, shorts, or linen set can feel more special.
They are perfect for warm days because they feel light, relaxed, and easy to wear.
Whether the beads are colorful, pearl-like, or neutral, they bring a fun summer touch while still looking feminine and stylish.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to let beaded sandals become the small statement piece in your outfit. If your clothes are simple, like a white dress, denim shorts, or a plain linen set, beaded sandals can make the whole look feel more fun and stylish.
For everyday wear, choose neutral or pearl-style beads because they are easier to match.
If you want a playful summer vibe, go for colorful beads and keep the rest of the outfit simple.
4. Strappy Heels
When summer events call for something dressier, strappy heels are often my go-to option.
Whether attending a wedding, dinner party, or special occasion, they instantly create a more refined appearance. The delicate straps also feel lighter and more seasonal than closed-toe shoes.
Why They Work?
Strappy heels work because they instantly make an outfit look more elegant and feminine. The thin straps create a light, delicate look on the feet, so they don’t feel too heavy or bulky.
They are perfect for dresses, skirts, tailored pants, or even simple jeans when you want to look more polished.
Whether for dinner, a party, or a casual chic outfit, strappy heels add just the right touch of confidence and style.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose strappy heels with thin, simple straps because they make the legs look longer and the outfit feel more refined.
Nude, beige, black, or metallic colors are the easiest to style because they work with many looks.
If you want comfort, pick a lower heel or block heel instead of a very high stiletto. They are perfect when you want to turn a simple outfit into something more elegant without adding too much.
5. Studded Slides
Not every summer outfit has to feel soft and delicate. Studded slides add a little personality and boldness without becoming overly dramatic.
They are especially useful when I want to make a basic outfit feel more interesting.
Why They Work?
Studded slides work because they bring a little edge to a simple summer outfit. The studs add shine and detail, so the sandals look stylish without needing extra accessories.
They are easy to slip on, comfortable for casual days, and perfect when you want your outfit to feel relaxed but not boring.
You can wear them with jeans, shorts, dresses, or linen pants, and they instantly make the look feel more modern, confident, and put together.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to keep the rest of your outfit simple when wearing studded slides. Because the studs already add detail, they look best with clean pieces like a plain dress, denim shorts, white jeans, or a linen set.
Choose black or tan studded slides if you want something easy to match.
For a softer look, go for gold or silver studs with neutral outfits, so the sandals feel stylish without looking too bold.
6. Buckle Slides
Some footwear trends come and go, but buckle slides continue to remain popular for good reason.
They prioritize comfort while still looking stylish enough for everyday wear. I often choose them when I know I will be walking for several hours.
Why They Work?
Buckle slides work because they are simple, comfortable, and easy to style, but the buckle detail makes them look more polished than regular sandals.
They give a relaxed everyday feel while still adding structure to the outfit.
You can wear them with jeans, shorts, linen pants, or casual dresses, and they instantly make the look feel effortless and put together. They are perfect for days when you want comfort without losing style.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose buckle slides in classic colors like black, brown, beige, or white because they can match almost anything in your wardrobe.
If you want them to look more stylish, pair them with relaxed pieces like linen pants, denim shorts, or a simple summer dress.
For extra comfort, look for soft straps and a cushioned sole. The buckle already adds detail, so keep the outfit clean and easy for a fresh everyday look.
7. Leather Slides
Leather slides are one of the most versatile summer shoes I own. They feel refined, mature, and easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion.
Whether paired with linen trousers or denim shorts, they rarely look out of place.
Why They Work?
Leather slides work because they make a simple outfit look more clean, classic, and expensive.
The leather texture gives a polished feel, so they look more elevated than basic flip-flops or casual sandals.
They are easy to wear for everyday outfits, but still stylish enough for lunch, travel, or a relaxed summer day out. You can pair them with jeans, linen pants, shorts, or dresses, and they instantly make the look feel effortless, timeless, and put together.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose leather slides in neutral shades like tan, brown, black, or cream because they look timeless and match almost everything.
If you want a more polished outfit, wear them with linen trousers, a white shirt, or a simple midi dress.
For everyday comfort, pick soft leather and a clean design without too many details. They are perfect when you want your summer outfit to look simple, classy, and effortless.
8. Rope Sandals
Rope sandals instantly remind me of beach vacations and coastal destinations.
Their lightweight appearance creates a casual, laid-back feel that works perfectly during warmer months.
Why They Work?
Rope sandals work because they bring a natural, beachy feel to any summer outfit. The rope detail adds texture, so the sandals look more interesting than plain flats but still feel relaxed and easy to wear.
They are perfect with linen dresses, shorts, flowy skirts, or wide-leg pants.
The style feels light, casual, and effortless, making it a great choice for holidays, warm days, or simple everyday outfits that need a fresh summer touch.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to wear rope sandals when you want your outfit to feel relaxed but still stylish.
Choose natural colors like beige, cream, tan, or soft brown because they match beautifully with summer pieces.
They look especially good with linen dresses, denim shorts, white pants, or flowy skirts. For a clean look, keep the outfit light and simple so the rope texture can add that easy beach-inspired charm.
9. Sporty Sandals
There are certain days when style alone is not enough.
Whether exploring a new city, visiting outdoor attractions, or spending a full day on my feet, sporty sandals become incredibly valuable.
Why They Work?
Sporty sandals work because they are comfortable, practical, and still stylish for casual summer outfits.
The supportive straps make them easy to wear for walking, travelling, or busy days, while the modern design keeps the look fresh and effortless.
They pair well with shorts, denim, relaxed dresses, or athleisure outfits. They are perfect when you want your outfit to feel cool, relaxed, and ready for anything without sacrificing comfort.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to style sporty sandals with casual pieces that still look clean, like denim shorts, relaxed trousers, a simple tank top, or a basic summer dress.
Choose neutral colors like black, white, beige, or olive if you want them to feel easy to match.
For a more modern look, wear them with socks or an oversized shirt. They are best for days when comfort is the priority, but you still want the outfit to look cool and intentional.
10. Gladiator Sandals
Gladiator sandals have remained popular for years because they create a distinctive look while staying surprisingly versatile.
They can add character to otherwise simple outfits.
Why They Work?
Gladiator sandals work because they add a bold and stylish touch to a simple summer outfit. The multiple straps make the shoes look more interesting, while still feeling light and easy to wear.
They look great with mini dresses, shorts, skirts, or relaxed linen outfits because they bring a little boho and confident vibe.
Whether flat or slightly heeled, gladiator sandals can make your outfit feel more fashionable, playful, and ready for sunny days.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose gladiator sandals with slim straps if you want them to look more flattering and easier to style.
Neutral colors like tan, brown, black, or gold work best because they match many summer outfits.
Pair them with a simple dress, denim shorts, or a flowy skirt so the straps can stand out without making the look too busy. For petite looks, avoid straps that go too high on the leg because they can make the legs look shorter.
11. Metallic Slides
Sometimes I want a little glamour without wearing something overly flashy. Metallic slides offer exactly that balance.
They catch light beautifully while remaining practical enough for daytime wear.
Why They Work?
Metallic slides work because they add instant shine without making the outfit feel too dressed up.
The metallic finish acts like a simple accessory, so even basic outfits can look more stylish and fresh.
They are easy to wear with dresses, jeans, shorts, or linen pants, and they bring a modern summer touch to the whole look. Whether in gold, silver, or rose gold, metallic slides make an outfit feel bright, chic, and effortless.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to treat metallic slides like jewelry for your feet. Gold works beautifully with warm colors like beige, brown, cream, or coral, while silver looks fresh with white, grey, blue, or black.
If your outfit feels too simple, metallic slides can make it look more polished in seconds. Keep the rest of the look clean, so the shine feels chic, not too busy.
12. Platform Sandals
Platform sandals have become increasingly popular because they provide extra height without placing excessive pressure on the foot.
I often find them easier to walk in compared to traditional heels.
Why They Work?
Platform sandals work because they give you extra height while still feeling more comfortable than regular heels.
The thicker sole adds support, so they are easier to walk in and perfect for long summer days.
They also make an outfit look more fun, trendy, and confident without too much effort. You can wear them with wide-leg jeans, maxi dresses, shorts, or skirts, and they instantly give the whole look a fresh, stylish lift.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose platform sandals with a comfortable sole and secure straps, so they give height without feeling hard to walk in.
Neutral colors like beige, black, white, or tan are easy to style with many summer outfits.
They look great with wide-leg pants, maxi dresses, denim shorts, or flowy skirts. If the platform is chunky, keep the outfit simple and balanced so the sandals look trendy, not too heavy.
13. Elevated Flip Flops
Flip flops are a summer staple, but elevated versions offer a more polished appearance. They maintain the convenience everyone loves while looking more intentional.
Why They Work?
Elevated flip flops work because they keep the easy comfort of regular flip flops but look more stylish and polished.
The slightly thicker sole or cleaner design makes them feel less casual, so they can be worn beyond the beach or pool.
They pair well with summer dresses, wide-leg pants, shorts, or linen outfits. They are perfect when you want something simple, relaxed, and comfortable, but still chic enough for everyday styling.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose elevated flip flops with a clean shape and better material, like leather, cushioned soles, or a slightly platform design.
Neutral colors such as black, tan, cream, or white will make them easier to style with many outfits.
They look best with relaxed but polished pieces like linen pants, a simple dress, or tailored shorts. Avoid overly sporty styles if you want them to feel chic and more put together.
14. Cutout Slides
For those who love clean aesthetics, cutout slides are an excellent option. Their streamlined appearance works particularly well with modern wardrobes.
Why They Work?
Cutout slides work because they make a simple sandal look more modern and stylish. The cutout detail adds shape and interest without feeling too bold, so they are easy to wear with many summer outfits.
They look great with linen pants, jeans, dresses, or shorts, and they give the outfit a clean, effortless feel.
They are perfect when you want comfortable sandals that still look chic, fresh, and a little more elevated than basic slides.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose cutout slides in neutral colors like tan, cream, black, or white so they feel easy to style with different outfits.
The cutout design already gives the sandals a stylish shape, so pair them with simple pieces like linen trousers, denim shorts, or a relaxed summer dress.
For a cleaner look, avoid too many bold accessories and let the slides add that subtle modern detail to your outfit.
15. Thong Sandals
Few sandal styles are as iconic as thong sandals. They remain popular because they are lightweight, practical, and incredibly easy to wear.
Why They Work
Thong sandals work because they are simple, light, and easy to wear with almost any summer outfit.
Their minimal design keeps the feet looking clean and effortless, while still giving a relaxed and stylish feel.
They pair well with dresses, shorts, jeans, linen pants, or beach outfits without making the look feel too heavy. They are perfect for warm days when you want something comfortable, casual, and timeless, but still chic enough for everyday styling.
Personal Tip
My personal tip is to choose thong sandals with a clean design and soft straps so they feel comfortable for daily wear.
Neutral colors like black, tan, white, or nude are the easiest to style and can make the outfit look more polished.
They look best with simple summer pieces like linen pants, flowy dresses, denim shorts, or relaxed skirts. For a more elegant look, pick leather or slightly padded styles instead of basic rubber ones.
How I Choose the Right Summer Sandals?
Before buying any new sandals, I always ask myself a few practical questions.
- Will I actually wear them often?
- Are they comfortable enough for my lifestyle?
- Do they match most of my summer wardrobe?
- Can they work for multiple occasions?
- Do they offer adequate support?
These questions help prevent impulse purchases and ensure every pair serves a real purpose.
The Summer Sandal Mistakes I Try to Avoid
Over the years, I have learned a few lessons the hard way.
One common mistake is choosing appearance over comfort. Beautiful sandals quickly lose their appeal when they cause discomfort after an hour of walking.
Another mistake is buying overly trendy styles that only work with one specific outfit.
I have found that versatile, timeless designs provide much better value and get significantly more wear throughout the season.