Ready to give your summer looks a refresh? Sandals are the quickest way to update your wardrobe, and this season’s styles make it easy to step out in something fresh—without sacrificing comfort or personal style.
Think effortless flip-flops, creamy tones, or even a playful braided strap; there’s a trend for every mood and occasion. In this blog post, we’ve rounded up seven sandal trends you won’t want to miss, each one editor-approved and perfect for hanging out, running errands, or dressing up for summer nights.
Ready to find your new go-to pair? Let’s get started.
Chic Fashion Flip-Flops
Chic Fashion Flip-Flops are the go-to for effortless summer style. Think sleek, leather flats for an easy everyday look or a subtle heeled flip-flop for a bit of polish—both are having a moment.
As Vogue mentions, “Flip-flops have made a fashionable return thanks to a number of labels (notably, The Row and Alaïa) who elevated the humble silhouette into a sophisticated staple.” Other leading fashion magazines like Marie Claire and Who What Wear are also spotlighting both flat and heeled versions as this summer’s coolest picks.
The New Jelly Sandals
Jelly sandals are officially back—and cuter and cooler than ever. From glossy flats to kitten‑heeled mules, they pair 1990s nostalgia with a modern twist.
Vogue highlighted how a trend sparked by The Row’s netted jelly sandals has turned the once‑childhood favorite into a “warm‑weather wardrobe essential.” Who What Wear scooped up the trend too, noting that “jelly sandals are back, but now, in much more wearable, clear iterations that lend themselves to easy styling.”
Barely-There Strappy Sandals
Barely-there strappy sandals are still going strong, proving that less really can be more. Thin, delicate straps create a subtle, barely-there effect that goes with almost everything—from summer dresses to easy jeans.
According to Harper’s Bazaar, “Celine, Alaïa, Stell, and Ulla Johnson are taking strappy sandals to a new level of minimalism.” With this kind of designer influence, it’s no wonder these simple, elegant styles are topping trend lists everywhere this summer.
Milky, Creamy Tones
Soft, milky shades are everywhere this summer, instantly refreshing your sandal lineup. Designers like Gabriela Hearst, Stuart Weitzman, and Toteme are all embracing Pantone-inspired creamy off-white hues.
As Harper’s Bazaar points out, “modernist slides and heeled sandals in milky off-white shades open up all sorts of new styling possibilities for white denim, tees, and knits.” These subtle hues are chic, easy to style, and a definite must-try this season.
Low-Profile Clogs
Clogs are back for summer, but this time around, they’re all about a slimmer, easygoing shape—so much lighter than the chunky styles of the past.
These low-profile clogs slip right into any look, from floaty dresses to casual jeans, and add just the right crafted touch without trying too hard. No surprise they’re popping up everywhere in major fashion mags, including Woman & Home, Vogue, and more.
Bold Hardware & Buckle Details
Sandals with stand-out hardware details are everywhere this summer, turning the simplest styles into instant statement pieces.
Think chunky buckles, metallic accents, and bold floral embellishments that instantly dress up even the most laid-back silhouettes.
From brushed silver buckles to decorative studs and modern grommets, these creative touches are stealing the spotlight. It’s a look fashion editors are loving right now, with Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Who What Wear all calling out hardware-heavy sandals as one of summer’s boldest trends.
Braided & Knotted Straps
If you’re after sandals that feel a little more interesting, braided and knotted straps are the way to go. These textured styles first caught everyone’s eye last year at Bottega Veneta and Jil Sander’s spring shows, and now they’re popping up in new collections from Fendi, Ralph Lauren, and Sézane.
Woven leather makes any pair feel instantly fresh, and this easy, artisan look is set to stick around all summer.
Ready to Finally Love Your Style (and Your Closet)?
Want to create a wardrobe you’ll love this season? My ebook, Capsule Chic: A Step-by-Step Guide + 100 Summer Looks, is the ultimate resource for creating a chic, effortless wardrobe. This 78-page guide is packed with tools to help you simplify your closet and perfect your look for the season—and beyond! Here’s what’s inside:
Here’s what you’ll find inside:
✔ Timeless advice on accessorizing, layering, and mixing and matching to make every piece work harder for you.
✔ Four comprehensive chapters on building an elegant, year-round wardrobe, so you can enjoy effortless style beyond just one season.
✔ And much more.
Wrapping Up
Whichever trend you pick, 2026 is all about sandals that feel just right for you. Maybe you’ll reach for something bold and fun one day or keep it low-key the next—there’s no wrong move.
The best part? These styles make it easy to slip into summer and feel great from morning to night. After all, it’s the little things—like the perfect pair—that make summer days even better.
Stay inspired daily! Follow us on Instagram for the latest trends, stylish outfit ideas, and creative style inspiration!
Hi, it’s Judy!