A truly great pair of sandals should carry you from early spring through late summer without missing a step. The right pair balances style, comfort, and versatility—and can elevate everything from denim to dresses.
Whether you’re strolling city streets, heading to dinner al fresco, or packing light for a weekend away, these sandal styles are seasonless staples worth investing in.
The minimalist leather slide
Clean lines and premium leather make the minimalist slide a forever favorite. It’s the kind of sandal that works with literally everything, from flowy skirts to tailored shorts.
Look for quality craftsmanship and a molded footbed if you plan on living in them. Bonus: they pack flat and still look polished, even with no effort at all.
The modern fisherman sandal
Fisherman sandals have made a sleek comeback—and they’re surprisingly wearable. The caged design offers structure, breathability, and a bit of edge without going too far.
Opt for a neutral tone in soft leather to keep them timeless. They’re perfect with cropped trousers or breezy linens when you want more coverage without sacrificing summer ease.
The barely-there strappy sandal
Thin straps, minimal design, and just enough heel—this is your go-to for dinners, dates, and dressier summer plans. Think of it as the sandal equivalent of a silk slip dress.
Go for metallics or soft neutrals to maximize wearability. It’s the kind of shoe that disappears in the best way, letting the rest of your outfit shine.
The sporty-chic comfort sandal
Once reserved for hikes and tourists, comfort sandals have had a major style glow-up. Now they’re fashion-forward, supportive, and surprisingly cool.
Look for versions with bold straps, platform soles, or textured details. They pair surprisingly well with elevated basics and give your feet a much-needed break on high-activity days.
The elevated thong sandal
Forget the rubber flip-flops of the past—today’s thong sandals are sculptural, sleek, and anything but sloppy. Think leather, molded footbeds, and unexpected silhouettes.
They slip on with ease but look thoughtful, especially with tailored summer separates or beachy maxi dresses. It’s an understated choice that feels fresh and effortless.
The platform sandal
A platform gives you height without sacrificing stability, making it a smart pick for all-day wear. Plus, it adds a fun ’70s vibe to any summer look.
Choose a cork or espadrille-style sole for a more relaxed aesthetic, or go bold with a chunky rubber base for an urban edge. Either way, they elongate without the ache.
The woven or braided sandal
Woven textures add instant interest to even the simplest sandal silhouette. Whether it’s raffia, leather, or fabric, the handwoven detail makes it feel artisan and intentional.
These sandals look especially great with flowy, natural fabrics and monochrome outfits. It’s a small detail that gives your look a crafted, curated vibe.
The versatile ankle-strap sandal
A classic ankle-strap sandal hits that sweet spot between secure and sexy. The strap adds support and structure while still keeping things open and airy.
Look for block heels or flat versions depending on your needs. This is the sandal that goes from city to coast with ease—and might just live in your suitcase all summer long.