When the sun is high and the temperatures soar, our first instinct is to reach for our favorite pair of sandals. But for too long, these summer staples have been mentally relegated to beach trips and poolside lounging. We’re here to set the record straight: sandals are the most versatile footwear in your summer arsenal, ready for almost any occasion you throw at them.
Forget the sandy stereotypes. It’s time to unlock the full potential of your open-toed footwear. Here is your ultimate guide on how to style sandals for every summer move that doesn’t involve a single grain of sand.
The Chic Weekend Brunch
The goal for a weekend brunch or a casual coffee run is ‘effortlessly put-together.’ You want to look stylish without seeming like you tried too hard. This is where minimalist sandals shine.
- The Sandal: Opt for a flat leather slide in a neutral tone like tan, black, or white. A minimalist thong sandal or a simple single-strap style also works beautifully.
- The Outfit: Pair them with high-waisted, straight-leg jeans and a classic white t-shirt. Elevate the look by throwing a lightweight linen button-down over the top, worn open like a jacket. Alternatively, a breezy floral midi dress and your simple slides are a match made in heaven.
The Polished Office Look
Yes, you can wear sandals to the office (dress code permitting, of course). The key is to choose a pair that is structured, sophisticated, and polished. Think less ‘vacation’ and more ‘vogue.’
- The Sandal: A low block-heel sandal or an elegant heeled mule in a high-quality material like leather or suede is your best bet. Look for clean lines and avoid anything too flashy or casual.
- The Outfit: Style them with tailored wide-leg trousers and a silk camisole, topped with a lightweight blazer. Another winning combination is a pleated midi skirt paired with a simple, tucked-in knit top. A neat pedicure is non-negotiable for this look!
The Dazzling Date Night
For an evening out, your sandals can be the star of the show. This is your chance to play with height, texture, and embellishments to add a touch of glamour to your outfit.
- The Sandal: Bring on the drama with a strappy stiletto sandal. Metallic finishes, delicate ankle ties, and subtle embellishments can instantly elevate your entire look.
- The Outfit: Let your shoes shine by pairing them with a sleek satin slip dress or a chic black jumpsuit. The simplicity of the outfit will provide the perfect canvas for your statement sandals.
The Effortless Errand Run
Running errands requires comfort, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. The rise of the ‘ugly’ sandal trend is a blessing for days filled with walking and ticking off your to-do list.
- The Sandal: Embrace the comfort of a sporty ‘dad’ sandal or a classic Birkenstock-style pair. Platform versions can add a bit of height and fashion-forward edge.
- The Outfit: These chunky sandals pair surprisingly well with a variety of casual looks. Try them with a matching athleisure set, a simple t-shirt dress, or loose-fitting linen pants and a tank top. The juxtaposition of the utilitarian sandal with a softer outfit creates a perfectly modern and cool vibe.
This summer, step up your style by stepping out in sandals for every occasion. With the right pairing, they can take you from a casual coffee to a corporate meeting and everywhere in between, proving that the best footwear isn’t just for the beach.