Summer fashion is getting a major upgrade this year with sandals taking center stage. From runways to street style, certain sandal designs are making waves without much fanfare.
Fashion insiders have noticed these quietly influential styles becoming the must-have footwear of 2025, combining comfort with cutting-edge design.
1. Flat Strappy Sandals

Minimalist designs with delicate straps have captured everyone’s attention this season. The beauty lies in their versatility – easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Neutral tones like black, caramel, and off-white dominate the color palette, though metallic finishes are gaining popularity for evening wear. The barely-there aesthetic creates an elongating effect for the legs while providing surprising comfort.
Fashion houses have embraced sustainable materials for these designs, with vegan leather options becoming increasingly sophisticated. Pair them with flowing dresses or cropped jeans for an effortlessly chic look that works from beach to dinner.
2. Suede Sandals

Luxurious texture meets practical design in 2025’s suede sandal revolution. The rich, velvety material adds depth to even the simplest outfit, creating an instant sophistication that’s hard to match.
Designers have solved the traditional weather concerns with new treatments that make suede more resistant to moisture and staining. Earth tones remain the most popular choices, with olive green and terracotta emerging as surprising favorites this season.
The tactile quality of suede creates a striking contrast against summer’s lightweight fabrics. Many brands are incorporating subtle platform soles for added height without sacrificing the walkability that makes these sandals so beloved.
3. Jelly Sandals

Remember those plastic shoes from your childhood? They’re back with serious upgrades! The new generation of jelly sandals features biodegradable materials that maintain the signature translucent look while being environmentally conscious.
Comfort has been reimagined with cushioned footbeds and ergonomic designs that prevent the sweaty discomfort of their predecessors. Bold colors dominate this trend – electric blue, lime green, and sunset orange offer playful pops against summer wardrobes.
Fashion-forward individuals are layering these with colorful socks for an unexpected twist. The waterproof nature makes them practical for unpredictable summer weather, while their affordable price point has helped them spread across diverse style communities.
4. T-Bar Sandals

Architectural elegance defines the T-bar sandal revival of 2025. The distinctive vertical strap creates visual interest while providing stability that many open designs lack, making them practical for all-day wear.
Heritage brands have reintroduced vintage patterns from their archives, while newer labels experiment with asymmetrical variations on the classic T-shape. The retro silhouette pairs surprisingly well with futuristic materials like holographic leather and metallic finishes.
Celebrity stylists have embraced these for red carpet events, proving their versatility beyond casual settings. The design works equally well with ankle-length trousers for work or flowing maxi dresses for evening, making them a true wardrobe workhorse.
5. Raffia Sandals

Natural materials reign supreme in this eco-conscious trend. Raffia, derived from palm leaves, creates lightweight sandals with distinctive texture that instantly evokes vacation vibes regardless of your location.
Artisanal craftsmanship shines through intricate weaving patterns that transform simple designs into wearable art. The natural variations in color and texture ensure no two pairs are exactly alike, appealing to those seeking individuality in their wardrobe.
Designers are combining raffia with leather trim for durability and structure, creating pieces that last beyond a single season. The neutral palette of these sandals makes them incredibly versatile, while their breathable nature keeps feet cool during summer heat waves.
6. Minimalist Flip-Flops

Gone are the days of rubber flip-flops reserved for beach outings. The 2025 version features elevated materials like butter-soft leather and precision engineering that transforms this casual staple into a sophisticated wardrobe essential.
Ultra-thin straps create an almost invisible profile from above, while carefully contoured footbeds provide support that was missing from earlier iterations. Muted tones predominate, with barely-there nudes matched precisely to skin tones becoming particularly sought-after.
High-fashion houses have embraced this humble silhouette, adding subtle logo embossing rather than flashy hardware. The minimalist aesthetic aligns perfectly with the current movement toward capsule wardrobes and investment pieces designed to transcend seasonal trends.