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Time to book that pedi appointment!
Book those pedi appointments, people—it’s almost sandal season! As we approach that magical transition period just before spring, the urge to shed our winter layers is undeniable. We’re ready to say goodbye to thick knits, heavy coats, and, of course, chunky boots. So, as we head into spring, let’s dive into all things sandals.
From strappy to mules, platforms, and wedges, there are so many types of sandals for a variety of occasions. We’re here to break down everything from the classics—the essential styles that never go out of fashion—to on-trend items—highlighting which shoe trends are worth your investment. Whether you're dressing for a fancy occasion or a casual outing, we’ll help you find the perfect pair.
Stay tuned as we explore the 13 must-have sandal types that will define this season.
Strappy
You can’t go wrong with a sexy strappy sandal. With so many styles available, you control the drama of your look. For an evening affair, choose a pair that laces up the leg to complement a dress. Or, for a subtler but still sexy vibe, opt for a flat pair. They maintain the allure without the added drama.
Wedges
Justice for wedges! They are so much more than just a Y2K mainstay— i.e., the iconic cork pairs. Wedges can truly be a chic moment when styled correctly, as they add a ladylike touch to any look. Move beyond natural fabrics and opt for a sleek leather pair or something metallic.
Flip Flops
Highlighting another polarizing pair—it’s time to talk about the flip flop. Love them or hate them, they have officially received the high-fashion seal of approval. The Row offers an amazing leather version that feels like your Havianas’ older, chicer sister. They're a great way to dress down a summer look that might otherwise feel too fussy, giving it a more relaxed vibe.
Kitten Heel
Sometimes, you don’t want to wear flats, but teetering in sky-high heels all day isn’t appealing either. The solution? Try a kitten heel. These sandals provide just the right amount of lift, offering a more polished look than flat sandals, yet they are low enough to remain daytime-appropriate and comfortable.
Mules
When it comes to finding a great pair of mules, there are tons of options to choose from. Take a page out of influencer Emili Sindlev’s book and channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw; Sindlev opted for vintage Louis Vuitton mules styled with a mini skirt—truly a Carrie-inspired look. For something a bit less sweet and more edgy, opt for a pair with a thick block heel and a square toe. Style them with jeans for a comfortable yet cool look.
Platforms
The higher the heel, the closer to heaven—or so they say, right? Platforms are a great choice for dressier occasions. They’re handy if your gown is too long and you haven’t had time to get it hemmed. But they’re more than just a wardrobe quick fix. Platform sandals don’t need to hide under layers of fabric; they can be the star of the show. Styled with tea-length dresses, they shine brightly. Opt for an ultra-chic shiny satin pair, or choose something in megawatt metallics to elevate the look, making it cocktail attire appropriate.
Slides
Some days, comfort is key, and we understand that not every day can be spent in five-inch platforms. Who doesn't love a comfortable slide? Perfect for everything from running errands to attending Pilates, they are the go-to shoes for slipping on and heading out. Fortunately fashion has embraced this style, brands are now offering slides in a variety of styles, fabrics, and colors.
Sporty Styles
Sporty-looking sandals like Tevas have been around forever, and recently, designers have been putting their unique spin on this classically “ugly” footwear. This season, Miu Miu introduced their own take on the sporty sandal with the Riviere sandals, characterized by their use of athletic cords. So, if the dad-inspired chunky sport sandals aren't quite your style, the Riviere offers a chic and sleek alternative.
Flatforms
We’ve already discussed platform sandals, so now it's time to explore their more casual counterpart: the flatform sandal. Unlike platforms, which feature a thicker heel and a slightly thinner front sole creating a height difference, flatforms have a uniformly thick sole across the entire length of the shoe, keeping the toe and heel at the same height. This design provides a modern and edgy look, offering comfort and height without the steep angle of heels. While platforms are often preferred for more formal looks due to their classic heel-like appearance, flatforms are ideal for those seeking a casual, comfortable feel with added height.
Fuzzy Feet
All things fur are having a moment, the FW24 runways were full of (faux) fur coats, bags, and shoes. So the furry feet trend is perfect for out avant-garde fashion aficionados who aren’t afraid to experiment. While it may not be the most classic style, it's a fun way to partake in the trend without going overboard.
Block Heel
The block heel has risen up the ranks due to its comfort and versatility. As far as summertime shoes go, they don’t get more adaptable than this. Wear them to work, happy hour, or a night out—the thick heel is perfect for summer weddings as it prevents sinking into the grass. Defined by their chunky, square-shaped heel, block heels come in both high and mid-height options, catering to various preferences and occasions.
Embellished
A little embellishment goes a long way. Consider this pair, for instance: the heel is quite low, making them suitable for daytime wear, yet the embellishments elevate the shoe, so they feel dressy enough for nighttime and fancy occasions.
Fisherman
Another style once dubbed “ugly” that has surged in popularity is the fisherman sandal. The chic and sensible androgynous style pairs perfectly with billowy linen, lending a sophisticated touch to the breezy fabric. These sandals also complement sleek, tailored trousers and crisp blouses, enhancing the overall elegance of the look. Thanks to their semi-closed-toe design, they are seasonless—ideal for wearing through fall and winter with thick socks and jeans.