This summer, footwear fashion is pulling off something rare: it's making comfort and elegance feel like the same thing. Whether you live in flat sandals or can't resist a heel, 2026 has a trend with your name on it. Here are the 7 sandal trends set to dominate the streets this summer — and exactly how to wear each one.
1. Elevated leather flip-flops
The classic flip-flop has officially outgrown the beach. This season, it's become a genuine style statement — and the secret lies in quality materials and clean design. Think thick leather soles, minimalist silhouettes, and modern square toes. These are the quiet luxury basics of summer 2026.
How to wear them: Forget casual beach looks. This year, sleek leather flip-flops are being paired with crisp linen trousers, structured summer suits, or silky midi skirts. The effect is effortlessly polished — relaxed without trying too hard.
2. Chic heeled mules
The slide-on heeled mule is having a full-on renaissance this summer, drawing straight from the late '90s and early 2000s aesthetic. Designers are leaning into minimalist straps and standout heels — often transparent or geometric — for a look that feels both nostalgic and completely fresh.
How to wear them: This silhouette instantly lengthens the leg. Try them with wide-leg jeans and a simple white shirt for effortless daytime chic, or pair with a fitted summer dress for evening cocktails.
3. Statement embellished sandals
If you love it when your shoes double as jewellery, this is your trend. Runways this season were flooded with sandals adorned with pearls, glittering stones, metallic hardware, and oversized fabric florals. Bold, beautiful, and completely unapologetic.
How to wear them: These pieces are designed to be the star of the show — so let them. Pair with a simple monochrome outfit (all white or all black works perfectly) and let the sandals do all the talking. Instant occasion-ready glamour, zero effort.
Looking for more ways to make a statement this summer? Explore our full summer fashion guide for outfit ideas that go beyond the basics.
4. Nostalgic jelly sandals
Get ready for a trip down memory lane. The flexible plastic jelly sandal — a childhood icon — is back, and this time it's been claimed by the most fashion-forward crowd. Modern versions come in smoky translucents, clear finishes, and vibrant neons, and they're surprisingly comfortable.
How to wear them: The key is contrast. Skip the sporty pairings — instead, style them with textured pieces like crochet tops, relaxed linen shorts, or a feminine ruffled sundress. The playful, eclectic result feels very now.
5. Wide-strap comfort sandals
Good news for comfort lovers: the chunky, ergonomic sandal is firmly holding its throne. This season's versions lean into cleaner, more structured designs with wide soft leather straps and bold buckle details — practical and polished at the same time.
How to wear them: This is your perfect all-day summer shoe. They look great with relaxed jumpsuits, shirt dresses, or the season's favourite: wide-leg linen trousers. If a long day of sightseeing is on the agenda, these are the ones you'll thank yourself for choosing.
6. Kitten heel sandals
The kitten heel is the ultimate sweet spot between flat comfort and high-heel glamour. At just a few centimetres tall, these delicate, feminine sandals add instant elegance without punishing your feet — you can wear them for hours and feel as fresh as when you started.
How to wear them: Kitten heels love romantic and retro silhouettes. Try them with a soft A-line skirt, a nipped-waist cotton dress, or a fine-knit top and tailored trousers for effortless Parisian chic.
7. Rope-strap sandals
The outdoorsy, utilitarian aesthetic has made its way from hiking boots to sandals — and it looks surprisingly good. Rope or cord straps give sandals a laid-back, adventurous edge, and they're a subtle way to add texture and colour to your summer looks.
How to wear them: These sandals were made for holiday dressing. Style them with a breezy embroidered kaftan for a resort-ready look, or keep it simple with denim shorts and a linen top for everyday summer ease.
