You’ve planned the outfits, curated the itinerary, and booked the dream destinations — but one wrong pair of shoes can wreck both your comfort and your vacation photos. Whether you’re snapping chic café shots in Paris or barefoot glam by the beach, your footwear plays a bigger role than you think.
The right shoes not only complete your look — they elevate it, adding polish, personality, and style that comes through in every frame.
In this guide, we’re spotlighting five shoes that make vacation photos pop (and pack a punch in style) — along with five shoes you’ll wish you left at home. If you’re aiming for Instagram-worthy moments and effortless elegance, this list will help you pack smart — and photogenically.
1. Woven Espadrille Wedges
Romantic, beachy, and flattering, woven espadrille wedges instantly provide an Amalfi Coast meets Pinterest board vibe. The design elongates the legs, lending an elegant touch to any outfit.
Whether paired with dresses, wide-leg pants, or resort wear, these shoes effortlessly enhance your vacation photos. The natural woven texture adds a rustic charm that complements beach landscapes.
Espadrilles are also comfortable enough for evening strolls, ensuring you look stylish from sunrise to sunset. Their distinct style and practical elegance make them a must-pack for any fashion-conscious traveler.
2. Minimalist Leather Sandals
Sleek and strappy, minimalist leather sandals in neutral tones offer a timeless elegance that enhances any vacation wardrobe. Their versatile nature ensures they match with everything, from cobblestone alleys to rooftop dinners.
These sandals lend a polished look in travel photos, capturing the essence of effortless sophistication. Lightweight and easy to pack, they save space while maximizing style.
Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or enjoying a city night out, these sandals provide chic comfort. Their understated design speaks volumes, making them an essential choice for modern travelers.
3. White Low-Profile Sneakers
Clean and slim, white low-profile sneakers offer a fresh, modern appeal for city explorations. Brands like Veja, Common Projects, or Adidas Stan Smiths capture the essence of laid-back style.
These sneakers complement every snapshot, unlike bulkier athletic shoes, making them ideal for travel photos. Their simplicity and charm make them a favorite among fashion-forward travelers.
Perfect for long urban walks, these shoes provide comfort without sacrificing style. Whether paired with casual or dressy outfits, they keep you looking put-together, ensuring your travel photos are picture-perfect.
4. Statement Mules or Slides
A splash of color or unique texture, statement mules or slides instantly elevate basic outfits. Their bold design can turn a simple look into something extraordinary in photographs.
Easy to slip on and off, they make packing a breeze and add that extra flair to your vacation wardrobe. Whether exploring a bustling market or enjoying a relaxed afternoon, these shoes stand out.
Their playful nature and vivid appearance make them a delightful addition to any travel ensemble. If you’re seeking to make a bold statement, these are the shoes for you.
5. Chic Ankle Strap Sandals
Delicate with a touch of elegance, chic ankle strap sandals are perfect for evening vacation looks. Their low-to-mid heels add sophistication without being too fussy.
Ideal for sunset shots and romantic dinners, these sandals offer a touch of glamour to your wardrobe. The ankle strap adds a hint of allure, ensuring you capture those perfect travel moments.
Elegant yet comfortable, these sandals are designed for leisurely evenings and memorable photos. For those seeking understated grace, these shoes are a top pick for any vacation.
6. Bulky Running Shoes
Functional but not photogenic, bulky running shoes are best left at home unless you’re planning a jog. Their clunky appearance can ruin the vibe of any outfit in photos.
These shoes often clash with stylish vacation attire, making them an unwise choice for travel photos. Instead of sleek and modern, they convey a less polished look.
While comfortable, their space-consuming nature makes them impractical for travel. To maintain a cohesive and stylish travel wardrobe, consider more versatile footwear options.
7. Heavy Hiking Sandals
Great for nature trails but awkward elsewhere, heavy hiking sandals project a “function over fashion” energy. They clash with urban and stylish settings, making them less than ideal for travel photos.
When paired with flowy outfits, they undermine the aesthetic appeal, highlighting practicality over style. Despite their comfort, they don’t blend well in fashionable environments.
Their robust design and bulky appearance make travel photography less appealing. If you’re aiming for a stylish vacation, it’s best to opt for more versatile footwear.
8. Ultra High Heels
While eye-catching, ultra high heels often take up valuable suitcase space and rarely suit the laid-back vibe of vacation dressing. Their impracticality is evident when navigating cobblestone streets or sandy beaches.
These heels can feel out of place in casual vacation environments, making travel photos look awkward. Despite their glamorous appearance, comfort is sacrificed, leading to regrets.
For a more relaxed and enjoyable vacation, consider packing shoes that balance style with practicality. High heels may shine on special occasions, but for travel, they’re best left behind.
9. Cheap Flip-Flops
Convenient for the pool, but rubber flip-flops fall short when paired with casual vacation outfits. They offer a rushed and unstyled appearance, flattening both your look and your photos.
In travel snapshots, these flip-flops can detract from an otherwise stylish ensemble, conveying a lack of attention to detail. While easy to pack, they don’t contribute to a polished vacation wardrobe.
For those aiming for chic and cohesive travel photos, consider more stylish alternatives. Flip-flops may offer comfort, but they miss the mark on fashion-forward aesthetics.
10. Loud Logo Sneakers or Slides
Overly branded sneakers or slides can distract from your outfit and pull focus in photos. They often cheapen the overall look, clashing with picturesque surroundings.
While they scream tourist, they lack the subtlety of a well-curated travel wardrobe. Logos that dominate can overshadow the beauty of your travel destinations, creating an imbalance.
For those seeking timeless elegance in their travel photos, opt for more understated footwear. Loud logos may serve well in casual settings, but for scenic adventures, they’re best avoided.