Summer is here, and that means it’s time to refresh your footwear collection with the season’s hottest styles. Fashion editors have already spotted the must-have shoes that will dominate sidewalks, beaches, and patios this year.
From comfortable classics with modern twists to bold statement pieces, these 11 summer shoe trends will keep your feet stylish and ready for whatever warm-weather adventures come your way.
1. Clog Sandals
Comfort meets style in this season’s most versatile footwear option. Clog sandals have evolved from their traditional wooden roots into fashion-forward statements with cushioned footbeds and eye-catching designs.
Fashion insiders are pairing them with everything from flowy dresses to cropped jeans. The open-back design provides breathability for hot days, while sturdy construction offers support that flip-flops simply can’t match.
Look for versions with leather uppers in neutral tones for maximum versatility, or opt for bold colors and patterns if you’re feeling adventurous. Many designers are adding playful studs, embroidery, and platform soles to elevate this practical shoe style.
2. New-School Boat Shoes
Forget everything you thought you knew about boat shoes. The preppy staple has undergone a serious makeover, shedding its country club image for something far more street-ready and fashion-forward.
Designers are reimagining this classic with chunky soles, unexpected materials, and bold color combinations. The traditional leather has been joined by canvas, nylon, and even sustainable alternatives that maintain the shoe’s nautical heritage while pushing it firmly into modern territory.
Styling these updated classics works best with cropped pants or shorts and a simple top. The beauty lies in their versatility – they transition seamlessly from beach outings to casual dinners without missing a beat.
3. Western Buckles
Cowboy-inspired footwear continues its reign with a focus on statement buckles this summer. These eye-catching metal accents transform ordinary sandals and mules into conversation-starting pieces that instantly elevate any outfit.
Silver and gold hardware dominate the trend, often featuring intricate engravings or turquoise embellishments. The western influence doesn’t mean you need to go full rodeo – these buckled beauties pair surprisingly well with minimalist summer dresses and tailored shorts.
Many versions feature low, walkable heels perfect for all-day wear. Fashion editors particularly love how these shoes add unexpected edge to feminine outfits, creating that coveted high-low contrast that makes an outfit look thoughtfully assembled rather than obviously trendy.
4. Jelly Shoes
Nostalgia reigns supreme as jelly shoes make their triumphant return to fashion’s center stage. These translucent plastic wonders have grown up since their playground days, now appearing in sophisticated silhouettes and unexpected color combinations.
Luxury brands have embraced the playful material, creating everything from flat sandals to heeled mules. The waterproof nature makes them perfect for poolside lounging or unexpected summer showers.
Glitter-infused versions add sparkle to casual outfits, while clear jellies create the illusion of a barely-there shoe. Fashion insiders recommend sizing up for comfort, as the plastic material doesn’t stretch like leather or fabric. Pair with simple outfits to let these statement shoes become the focal point.
5. Sneakerinas
Ballet flats and sneakers have merged to create this summer’s most comfortable hybrid trend. Sneakerinas combine the elegant shape of a ballet flat with the cushioned sole and athletic details of a sneaker.
Athletic brands and luxury designers alike have embraced this practical fusion. The result is a shoe that offers unprecedented comfort without sacrificing style – perfect for city explorations or busy days when you’re constantly on your feet.
Canvas versions provide breathability for hot days, while leather options offer a more polished look. Fashion editors particularly love pairing these with ankle-length trousers or midi skirts for a balanced silhouette. The best part? No break-in period required – these shoes are ready for action straight out of the box.
6. T-bar Silhouettes
Vintage-inspired T-strap shoes have made a remarkable comeback, offering timeless elegance with modern comfort. The distinctive T-shaped strap provides more security than typical sandals while creating a leg-lengthening visual effect that fashion editors adore.
Contemporary versions come in every height imaginable – from completely flat sandals to block heels and platforms. The design works beautifully in both casual and formal settings, making it one of summer’s most versatile shoe investments.
Metallic finishes add evening-appropriate glamour, while neutral leathers work for daytime affairs. Many designers have added cushioned footbeds to these retro silhouettes, ensuring you can wear them comfortably all day. Pair with cropped pants to showcase the distinctive strap detail that gives this style its name.
7. Low-key Loafers
Summer loafers have shed their stuffy reputation, emerging as the season’s most versatile flat option. Lightweight materials and breathable designs make these once winter-only shoes perfect for warmer months.
Unlined suede and perforated leather versions provide airflow while maintaining the shoe’s classic appeal. Bright colors and playful details like tassels or woven textures add seasonal flair to this timeless silhouette.
Fashion insiders are wearing them with everything from linen shorts to floral dresses. The backless mule variation offers an especially summer-friendly option that slips on easily for impromptu outings. Unlike traditional loafers, these updated styles require minimal breaking in, making them ideal for immediate summer wear.
8. Woven Shoes
Artisanal craftsmanship takes center stage with this summer’s woven footwear trend. Intricate weaving techniques transform simple silhouettes into textural masterpieces that add interest to even the most basic outfits.
Natural materials like raffia and leather dominate this category, offering breathability and unique texture. The handcrafted appeal connects with our growing appreciation for artisanal goods and sustainable fashion choices.
Closed-toe versions provide an office-appropriate option, while woven sandals offer beachy vibes. Fashion editors particularly love how these shoes add dimension to monochromatic outfits. The neutral color palette of most woven styles ensures they’ll complement everything in your summer wardrobe, making them a practical investment despite their distinctive appearance.
9. Snake-effect Heels
Animal prints continue their fashion dominance, with snake-effect textures slithering to the top of summer shoe trends. The reptilian pattern adds instant edge to sandals, mules, and pumps without overwhelming an outfit.
Modern interpretations feature embossed leathers in unexpected colors like pastel blue or bright coral, moving beyond traditional brown and gray scales. The textural interest creates dimension that elevates even the simplest shoe silhouettes.
Fashion editors recommend treating snake print as a neutral that pairs surprisingly well with florals and other patterns. The most wearable versions feature this striking texture on manageable heel heights – think 2-3 inch blocks or kitten heels rather than towering stilettos. For maximum versatility, look for styles with minimal hardware that won’t compete with the statement-making texture.
10. Extra-slim Sneakers
Bulky dad sneakers are taking a backseat to sleek, streamlined profiles this summer. These svelte athletic shoes offer the comfort of sneakers without the visual weight, creating a more refined silhouette that pairs beautifully with summer dresses and tailored shorts.
Canvas and knit constructions dominate this trend, offering breathability for hot days. Many feature minimalist design elements – think subtle logos, monochromatic color schemes, and refined silhouettes that wouldn’t look out of place in more formal settings.
Fashion insiders are wearing these with everything from slip dresses to linen suits. The versatility makes them perfect travel companions when packing space is limited. Unlike their chunkier counterparts, these slim sneakers actually make legs appear longer, especially when worn with shorter hemlines.
11. Strappy Flats
Delicate straps are transforming ordinary flats into architectural wonders this season. Multiple thin straps crisscross the foot, creating visual interest while providing surprising stability and comfort.
Leather versions in neutral tones offer endless styling possibilities, while metallic finishes add special-occasion flair. The minimalist aesthetic works particularly well with summer’s flowing fabrics and lighter clothing weights.
Fashion editors love how these shoes elongate the leg despite their flat profile – a trick achieved through strategically placed straps that draw the eye vertically. Many designs feature ankle wraps that further enhance this lengthening effect. The best part? Unlike their heeled counterparts, these strappy wonders allow for hours of comfortable walking, making them perfect for summer sightseeing or outdoor events.