Summer 2025 is just around the corner, and your shoe collection needs a serious upgrade! These must-have heels will elevate your warm-weather outfits from basic to breathtaking.
From floral designs to ’90s throwbacks, we’ve rounded up the styles that fashion insiders are already buzzing about for next summer.
1. Flower Sandals
Blooming beautiful and perfect for garden parties, flower sandals add a touch of whimsy to any summer outfit. The delicate floral embellishments create a feminine look that pairs wonderfully with flowy dresses or cropped jeans.
Many designers are using sustainable materials for these botanical beauties, making them eco-friendly as well as stylish. Look for options with adjustable ankle straps for all-day comfort.
Fun fact: Flower-adorned footwear has roots in ancient Greek celebrations, where brides wore sandals decorated with real blossoms to symbolize fertility and new beginnings.
Stuart Weitzman Paradise Sandals
Luxury meets comfort in Stuart Weitzman’s Paradise Sandals, the statement piece your summer wardrobe craves. These beautifully crafted heels feature buttery-soft leather and the brand’s signature cushioned footbed that makes walking on sunshine feel like walking on clouds.
Available in an array of tropical-inspired colors, from coral reef to azure blue, they’re versatile enough for both beachside weddings and rooftop cocktail parties. The moderate 2.5-inch heel provides just enough lift without sacrificing stability.
Celebrity stylists have already been requesting these for their A-list clients’ summer 2025 appearances.
Sam Edelman Carla Sandals
Walking the perfect line between casual and dressed-up, Sam Edelman’s Carla Sandals deserve prime real estate in your closet. The block heel provides stability while the minimalist straps offer that barely-there feel that’s ideal for hot summer days.
Fashion editors love how these versatile beauties transition seamlessly from office to oceanside. Available in both neutral tones and bold pops of color, you might find yourself wanting multiple pairs to match different outfits.
Made with Sam Edelman’s commitment to quality, these sandals feature padded insoles that keep your feet happy through long summer evenings of dancing under the stars.
2. Metal Accents
Gleaming in the summer sun, heels with metal accents bring an edgy vibe to warm-weather footwear. Gold, silver, and rose gold embellishments elevate simple designs into statement pieces that catch the light with every step.
Fashion forecasters predict these shimmering details will dominate summer 2025 runways. The contrast between metallic hardware and soft leather or fabric creates a balanced look that works for both day and evening occasions.
Metal-accented heels pair beautifully with monochromatic outfits, allowing your footwear to become the focal point. Consider styles with metal heel caps or decorative buckles for maximum impact.
Cushionaire Maui Strappy Toe-Ring Heels
Comfort meets bohemian flair in the Cushionaire Maui Strappy Toe-Ring Heels. These unique sandals feature a toe ring design that adds an unexpected twist to traditional summer footwear while providing extra stability.
The padded footbed lives up to the brand name, offering cloud-like cushioning that makes these perfect for all-day wear. Available in earthy tones like terracotta, olive, and sand, they complement natural fabrics and summer tans beautifully.
Beach wedding guests and festival-goers alike have embraced these versatile heels for their ability to stay comfortable on various terrains while maintaining an elevated look.
Jeffrey Campbell Capture Sandals
Bold and architectural, Jeffrey Campbell’s Capture Sandals make a dramatic entrance for summer 2025. The avant-garde silhouette features unexpected cutouts and a sculptural heel that transforms these shoes into wearable art.
Despite their statement-making design, these sandals offer surprising comfort thanks to padded straps and balanced weight distribution. Fashion risk-takers will appreciate how these conversation-starting shoes instantly elevate even the simplest outfit.
Available in both vibrant jewel tones and classic neutrals, the Capture Sandals reflect Jeffrey Campbell’s commitment to pushing boundaries while maintaining wearability for everyday fashion enthusiasts.
3. Ballet Heels
Graceful and feminine, ballet heels bring dance-inspired elegance to summer 2025 footwear. These delicate shoes feature the distinctive rounded toe and ribbon-like straps reminiscent of a ballerina’s pointe shoes, but with a wearable heel height.
Fashion historians note that ballet heels cycle back into popularity every few decades, and 2025 marks their triumphant return. The soft silhouette pairs beautifully with both structured and flowing garments, making them incredibly versatile.
Look for versions with ankle ties that can be wrapped in different ways, allowing you to customize your look while channeling your inner dancer throughout the summer season.
Reformation Terry Ballet Pumps
Sustainability meets sophistication in Reformation’s Terry Ballet Pumps, crafted from eco-friendly materials without sacrificing style. The modest heel height (just 2 inches) offers elevation while remaining comfortable enough for city explorations or outdoor gatherings.
What sets these apart is their buttery-soft recycled leather and the distinctive square toe that adds a modern edge to the classic ballet pump silhouette. Reformation’s commitment to ethical production means you can feel good about your fashion choices.
Available in a range of summer-ready hues from blush pink to butter yellow, these pumps have already garnered waitlists among fashion insiders preparing for summer 2025.
Everlane Ballet Slingback Heels
Minimalist perfection defines Everlane’s Ballet Slingback Heels, the understated showstoppers of summer 2025. The clean lines and absence of unnecessary details make these the quintessential capsule wardrobe addition for the discerning fashion lover.
Crafted from Italian leather that molds to your foot with each wear, these slingbacks feature a walkable 2.5-inch heel and elasticized back strap that prevents slipping. The pointed toe elongates the leg while maintaining day-long comfort.
Fashion editors praise these versatile heels for their ability to transition seamlessly between work meetings, dinner dates, and weekend brunches without missing a stylish beat.
4. Pretty Pastels
Soft hues dominate the summer 2025 footwear landscape, with pastel heels emerging as the season’s sweetest trend. Mint green, lavender, baby blue, and pale peach options offer a refreshing alternative to traditional summer brights.
Textile experts note that these gentle colors pair beautifully with both neutrals and other pastels, making them surprisingly versatile additions to your warm-weather wardrobe. The subdued palette creates a sophisticated, dreamy aesthetic that feels especially appropriate for outdoor celebrations.
Designers are presenting these candy-colored creations in various textures, from buttery suede to glossy patent leather, allowing the delicate hues to take center stage.
Coach Runway Kitten Heels
Heritage luxury meets modern sensibility in Coach’s Runway Kitten Heels for summer 2025. These sophisticated shoes feature the brand’s iconic hardware and premium leathers while maintaining a contemporary silhouette that works for diverse occasions.
The modest heel height (just under 2 inches) offers elevation without sacrificing comfort, making these perfect for summer days that stretch into evenings. Many styles incorporate Coach’s signature monogram in subtle, tasteful ways that brand enthusiasts will appreciate.
Fashion forecasters predict these will be particularly popular for summer office wear and upscale casual events where comfort and style must coexist harmoniously.
Steve Madden Cary Heels
Affordability meets trend-forward design in Steve Madden’s Cary Heels, the budget-friendly must-haves of summer 2025. These versatile pumps feature a manageable 3-inch heel and cushioned insole that makes them comfortable enough for all-day wear.
The slightly pointed toe and sleek silhouette create a timeless look that works with everything from sundresses to tailored shorts. Available in an array of colors and materials, from classic black leather to unexpected metallics, there’s a Cary Heel for every summer outfit.
Style influencers appreciate how these accessible shoes deliver high-end looks without the luxury price tag, making fashion-forward summer styling available to everyone.
5. Snakeskin Heels
Exotic texture meets summer sophistication in 2025’s snakeskin heel trend. These reptilian-inspired shoes add instant edge to sundresses and elevate casual denim to night-out status with their distinctive pattern.
Modern versions come in both natural tones and unexpected color combinations like blue-gray or pink-tinged scales. The textural interest creates depth and dimension that flat materials simply can’t match.
Ethical fashionistas will be pleased to know that most designer options now use embossed leather or high-quality synthetic materials rather than actual snakeskin, allowing you to rock this wild trend with a clear conscience.
Inez Alta Pumps
Handcrafted excellence defines the Inez Alta Pumps, where old-world craftsmanship meets contemporary design for summer 2025. These Spanish-made beauties feature hand-stitched details and premium leathers sourced from ethical tanneries.
The anatomically correct footbed sets these pumps apart from competitors, providing exceptional support that prevents the typical end-of-day aches associated with heels. A moderate 2.75-inch heel strikes the perfect balance between elegance and practicality.
Available in rich summer-appropriate shades like terracotta, olive, and cream, these investment pieces are designed to last for years rather than a single season, making them worth every penny.
Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Heels
Retro inspiration meets contemporary comfort in Sam Edelman’s Bianka Slingback Heels. These vintage-inspired shoes feature a distinctive flared heel that provides stability while creating a striking silhouette that turns heads.
The adjustable slingback strap accommodates different ankle sizes and provides a secure fit for walking. Fashion historians note that this style references 1940s footwear but updates it with modern materials and construction techniques.
Perfect for summer weddings and special occasions, the Bianka comes in both solid colors and two-tone combinations that add visual interest. The padded footbed means you can dance all night without regrets.
6. ’90s Thong Heels
Nostalgic fashion lovers rejoice as ’90s thong heels make their triumphant comeback for summer 2025! These minimalist sandals feature the distinctive toe post design that dominated turn-of-the-millennium red carpets and music videos.
Modern versions improve on the original with better arch support and softer materials that prevent the dreaded between-toe discomfort. The sleek, barely-there aesthetic creates a leg-lengthening effect that pairs beautifully with both midi skirts and cropped pants.
Fashion forecasters predict these throwback heels will be especially popular among millennials revisiting their youth and Gen Z discovering ’90s style for the first time.
Reformation Sophie Heeled Sandals
Eco-conscious construction meets timeless design in Reformation’s Sophie Heeled Sandals. These environmentally friendly shoes are crafted from deadstock and recycled materials, reducing fashion waste while creating stunning summer footwear.
The minimalist strappy design features a sturdy block heel that provides stability on various summer surfaces from boardwalks to garden parties. Each pair saves approximately 17 gallons of water compared to conventional shoe production methods.
Available in both neutral tones and seasonal colors like marigold and sage green, these versatile sandals prove that sustainable fashion can be just as stylish as conventional alternatives.
Viugjnex Thong Heels
Social media sensation Viugjnex Thong Heels have skyrocketed from unknown to unmissable for summer 2025. These affordable statement pieces feature a distinctive square toe and slim heel that creates a contemporary silhouette beloved by fashion influencers.
Despite their budget-friendly price point, these heels offer surprising comfort thanks to padded insoles and flexible straps. The rainbow of available colors makes them perfect for creating Instagram-worthy shoe collections that brighten summer outfits.
Savvy shoppers order these early, as previous styles from this viral brand have sold out within days of restocking. Their lightweight construction makes them ideal for packing on summer vacations.