Summer is here, and that means it’s time to refresh our footwear collection with the season’s hottest styles. I’ve been scouring the shelves at Nordstrom and Saks to find the perfect pairs that combine comfort, style, and versatility for the warm months ahead.
From classic revivals to bold new designs, these 15 summer shoe trends will keep your feet happy and your outfits on point all season long.
1. Boat Shoes
Remember those boat shoes your dad wore on every family vacation? They’re back and better than ever! The nautical-inspired staple has sailed into 2023 with sleeker silhouettes and fashion-forward details.
Designers have reimagined this preppy classic with buttery-soft leathers, unexpected colors, and refined details that work just as well with sundresses as they do with shorts. The non-marking rubber soles still provide that legendary grip on slippery surfaces.
The best part? Unlike many trendy shoes, boat shoes actually get more comfortable with wear, molding to your feet for a custom fit that feels like they were made just for you.
Dolce Vita Doris Boat Shoes
Dolce Vita’s take on the boat shoe brings a feminine flair to this traditionally masculine style. The Doris model features a slightly elevated sole and delicate hardware that adds just the right amount of polish.
Available in several gorgeous neutral shades, these shoes pair effortlessly with everything from cropped jeans to flowy summer dresses. The cushioned footbed makes them comfortable enough for all-day wear, whether you’re actually on a boat or just running errands around town.
I’m particularly drawn to the soft suede versions that add textural interest to simple summer outfits while maintaining that classic boat shoe silhouette we all love.
Rag & Bone Carter Suede Boat Shoes
Rag & Bone elevates the humble boat shoe to new heights with their Carter model. Crafted from premium suede, these shoes offer that perfect blend of casual cool and understated luxury that the brand is known for.
The rich texture of the suede adds visual interest, while the classic boat shoe silhouette keeps them versatile enough for nearly any summer occasion. I love how the contrast stitching highlights the impeccable craftsmanship.
Though they come with a higher price tag than some options, the quality construction means they’ll last for many summers to come, developing a beautiful patina that makes them uniquely yours.
2. Jelly Shoes
The jelly shoes that defined so many childhood summers are experiencing a major fashion revival! These transparent, glittery footwear options bring a playful dose of Y2K nostalgia to your summer wardrobe.
Today’s versions come in sophisticated silhouettes that feel grown-up while still maintaining that fun, whimsical spirit we love. The waterproof material makes them perfect for pool parties, beach days, or unexpected summer showers.
Fashion houses have reimagined jellies with architectural shapes and unexpected details, transforming what was once purely casual footwear into statement pieces that can dress up or down depending on your styling.
Vince Barcelona Jelly Cage Mules
Vince has taken the humble jelly shoe and transformed it into something utterly sophisticated with their Barcelona Cage Mules. The minimalist cage design offers a contemporary twist on the nostalgic style we all remember from childhood.
These sleek slides come in neutral, translucent hues that complement any summer outfit. The slight heel provides just enough elevation to make them appropriate for casual dinners or upscale beach clubs, not just poolside lounging.
What makes these jellies special is their versatility – they’re waterproof enough for practical summer wear but stylish enough to pair with a breezy linen dress for evening cocktails.
Jeffrey Campbell Gummy Ankle Strap Sandals
Jeffrey Campbell never shies away from making a statement, and their Gummy Ankle Strap Sandals are no exception. These jellies feature chunky straps, bold hardware, and eye-catching colors that demand attention with every step.
The ankle strap provides secure support while the jelly material molds to your foot for surprising comfort. Many shoppers report these are far more wearable than the jellies of their youth, with thoughtful design elements that prevent blisters and discomfort.
I’m particularly drawn to the versions with embedded glitter or the two-tone options that add an extra layer of visual interest to an already fun summer shoe.
3. Slingback Heels
Slingback heels strike that perfect balance between professional polish and warm-weather practicality. The open back allows for ventilation during hot summer days while maintaining a sophisticated silhouette appropriate for office wear or special occasions.
This season’s standout styles feature architectural heels, pointed toes, and unexpected textures like raffia or woven materials. Many designers are playing with bold colors and prints that add personality to otherwise classic shapes.
The beauty of slingbacks lies in their versatility – they work seamlessly with cropped trousers for work, flowy dresses for weddings, or even elevated denim for dinner dates, making them a true summer wardrobe workhorse.
Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pumps
Sam Edelman’s Bianka Slingback Pumps have quickly become a bestseller for good reason. The manageable kitten heel provides just enough elevation without sacrificing comfort, making these a practical choice for long summer days.
Available in an array of colors from neutrals to brights, there’s a Bianka for every outfit and occasion. The pointed toe elongates the leg while the adjustable slingback strap ensures a secure fit that won’t slip as you walk.
What makes these pumps stand out is their accessible price point combined with thoughtful details like padded insoles and flexible construction – proof that stylish summer shoes don’t have to break the bank or hurt your feet.
22élevé Slingback 85MM Leather Sandals
For those seeking investment-worthy summer footwear, 22élevé’s Slingback 85MM Leather Sandals represent the pinnacle of luxury craftsmanship. Handmade in Italy from buttery-soft leather, these slingbacks feature a perfectly balanced 85mm heel that’s both striking and walkable.
The minimalist design showcases the exceptional materials and construction, with clean lines and subtle branding that whisper rather than shout. The leather footbed molds to your foot over time, creating a custom-feeling fit that only improves with wear.
While the price point is higher than some options, the timeless design ensures these sandals will remain stylish for many summers to come, making them a worthy addition to any shoe collection.
4. Fisherman Sandals
Fisherman sandals have made a surprising leap from practical footwear to fashion must-have this season. These woven leather sandals feature cage-like straps that provide support and style in equal measure.
Fashion editors and influencers have been styling them with everything from flowy maxi dresses to tailored shorts, proving their incredible versatility. The closed toe makes them office-appropriate in more casual workplaces, while the breathable design keeps feet cool.
Modern updates include sleeker silhouettes, premium materials, and unexpected color options that elevate this formerly humble style to new heights of chicness while maintaining the comfort that made them popular in the first place.
Franco Sarto Tavana Fisherman Sandal
Franco Sarto’s Tavana Fisherman Sandal offers a refined take on the trending style, with slimmer straps and a more delicate silhouette than traditional versions. The subtle lug sole adds a contemporary edge without overwhelming the clean design.
Available in versatile neutrals like black, white, and cognac, these sandals work effortlessly with virtually any summer outfit. The cushioned footbed provides all-day comfort, while the ankle strap ensures a secure fit during city explorations.
I especially appreciate how these sandals strike that perfect balance between fashion-forward and practical – they’re substantial enough to provide support but sleek enough to wear with dressier outfits.
Free People Libby Slingback Sandals
Free People infuses their signature bohemian aesthetic into the fisherman sandal trend with their Libby Slingback model. The woven leather upper maintains the classic fisherman look, while the slingback design adds a feminine touch that sets them apart.
The slightly weathered finish gives these sandals a lived-in, artisanal quality that pairs perfectly with flowy summer dresses and distressed denim. Unlike some fisherman styles that can feel clunky, these maintain a relatively low profile on the foot.
The neutral color options ensure versatility, while the leather construction means they’ll develop a beautiful patina over time, making each pair uniquely yours by season’s end.
5. Espadrilles
Espadrilles bring an instant touch of European vacation vibes to any summer outfit. Characterized by their jute rope soles and typically canvas or fabric uppers, these Spanish-originated shoes have been summer staples for centuries for good reason.
Today’s versions range from traditional flat styles to wedges and platforms that offer height without sacrificing stability. The natural materials make them breathable choices for hot days, while the typically neutral palette ensures they work with virtually everything in your summer wardrobe.
Beyond their style appeal, espadrilles offer ecological advantages over many summer shoes, with biodegradable soles and often sustainable upper materials making them a more planet-friendly footwear choice.
Staud Calla Espadrille Mary Janes
Staud brilliantly combines two beloved shoe styles – the espadrille and the Mary Jane – in their Calla design. This unexpected hybrid features the traditional jute sole of an espadrille with the secure strap and rounded toe of a Mary Jane, creating something entirely fresh.
The canvas upper comes in several eye-catching colors and patterns that add a pop to simple summer outfits. The adjustable strap ensures a secure fit, making these more practical for all-day wear than many slip-on espadrille styles.
Fashion insiders are pairing these with everything from casual denim to dressy midi skirts, proving their remarkable versatility despite their distinctive design.
Castañer Bromelia Espadrille Wedge Sandals
When it comes to authentic espadrilles, few brands can match the heritage and craftsmanship of Castañer. Their Bromelia Wedge Sandals represent over 200 years of Spanish shoemaking tradition, elevated for today’s fashion-conscious consumer.
The modest wedge provides height without sacrificing stability, while the ankle ties create a secure fit and add a touch of feminine detail. The canvas upper comes in a range of sophisticated neutrals and brights that complement summer wardrobes.
Kate Middleton has been spotted in Castañer wedges numerous times, cementing their status as a royal-approved summer shoe that blends comfort with polished style.