The only 5 summer shoe styles you need in your wardrobe
We’ve outlined the five key styles every woman should have in her wardrobe come the sunnier months because, these days, summer footwear isn’t all flip flops and sandals. The options are endless: from espadrille wedges and heeled mules to ergonomic flip flops and comfortable canvas trainers.
As the weather warms up, our feet can breathe a sigh of relief. Open toes and flat soles are not only more comfortable, they’re easier to walk in than stiff leather loafers and court shoes.
The best bit is, most of our five key shoe styles are real multitaskers; easily dressed up or down and very much practical and pretty at the same time. A carefree summer shouldn’t mean stressing over your morning shoe choice, or shoving so many in your weekend bag that they’re spilling out by the time you reach the car.
Invest in a few of these staple footwear options and you’ll be prepared for everything from garden parties and alfresco dinners to long country walks and business meetings.
Espadrilles
This timeless shoe has gone from beachwear to summer staple in recent years. It’s mainly thanks to Spanish brand Castaner (loved by the Princess of Wales), whose good quality canvas and jute wedges are sturdy enough to walk miles in while still elongating your legs (we’ve seen a real rise in women wearing them to work with dresses, jeans and blazers).
If you don’t have £80 plus to spend though, there are plenty of similar iterations on the high street. Those who need more support should go for buckles rather than tie straps and opt for flat soles instead – they’re still just as chic.
Summer trainers
Just because the weather is warm doesn’t mean you have to pack away your go-to trainers. To keep your feet cool though, it’s wise to opt for lightweight canvas styles.
The Princess of Wales has frequently been spotted wearing eco-friendly Vejas so, naturally, the French footwear brand has taken off in recent years. Trimmed with suede for structure and longevity, its canvas styles are well worth the investment. Superga’s plimsolls are another royal favourite, too.
The high street stores like Boden has plenty of similar plimsoll styles – look for platform soles, striped trims and metallic accents for a playful twist.
Mules
This trend has been creeping in for the past few years with much resistance – so many of us are reluctant to bear our heels to the world.
Still, there’s no denying the power of a mule in the summer: the smart silhouette of a leather shoe becomes less stuffy because the backless detail lets your skin breath.
To bring your look up to date, opt for 1990s square-toed shapes. And if even block heels aren’t sturdy enough for you, go for a slight platform sole to add height.
Strappy Sandals
In recent years, we've witnessed a 1990s strappy sandal renaissance – the kind with barely-there straps in supple comfortable leather.
You don’t need to fear breaking an ankle at vertiginous heights to tap into this trend though, as there are plenty of flat options with naked straps and simple silhouettes that look just as delicate. If you don't do delicate, however, COS' pretty sandals are the perfect compromise.
Flip Flops
Ok, so we couldn’t do a summer shoe edit without mentioning the humble flip flop (although it’s not so humble anymore).
If you need more than a basic rubber style, we suggest heading straight to Birkenstock – the legendary footwear brand keeps things simple with a mainstay of styles and that’s why it’s still reigning supreme. On the other hand, Fitflop’s ergonomic models could work wonders for your back and feet, so it’s worth spending a little more to add a spring into your step this summer.
Like something a little prettier? Look for crystal embellishments or braided suede for spring/summer 2024.
No matter your summer footwear style, this guide has got you covered. Happy Shopping!
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