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Book those pedicure appointments, friends, it’s almost sandal season! As we approach that magical transition period just before spring, the urge to shed our winter layers is undeniable. We’re ready to say goodbye to chunky knits, chunky coats and, of course, chunky boots. So, as spring approaches, let’s dive into all things sandals.
From strappy to mules, platforms and wedges, there are many types of sandals for various occasions. We’re here to break down everything from classics (the essential styles that never go out of style) to trendy items, highlighting which shoe trends are worth your investment. Whether you’re dressing for a chic occasion or a casual outing, we’ll help you find the perfect pair.
Stay tuned as we explore the 13 must-have sandal types that will define this season.
Strappy
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You can’t go wrong with a sexy strappy sandal. With so many styles available, you control the drama of your look. For an evening, choose a pair that laces the leg to complement a dress. Or, for a more subtle but still sexy vibe, opt for a flat pair. They retain their appeal without the added drama.
Corners
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Justice for the corners! They’re more than just a Y2K mainstay, that is, the iconic cork pairs. Wedges can really be a chic moment when styled correctly, as they add a feminine touch to any look. Go beyond natural fabrics and opt for a sleek leather pair or something metallic.
Flip flops
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Highlighting another polarizing pair: It’s time to talk about the seesaw. Love them or hate them, they have officially received the haute couture label. The Row has a stunning leather version that looks like the older, fancier sister to your Havianas. It’s a great way to dress up a summer look that might otherwise seem too fussy, giving it a more casual vibe.
Kitten heel
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Sometimes you don’t want to wear flat shoes, but staying in sky-high heels all day isn’t attractive either. The solution? Try a kitten heel. These sandals offer just the right amount of lift, offering a more refined look than flat sandals, but they’re low enough to still be suitable and comfortable during the day.
Mules
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When it comes to finding a great pair of mules, you have tons of options to choose from. Take inspiration from influencer Emili Sindlev’s book and channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw; Sindlev opted for vintage Louis Vuitton mules paired with a mini skirt, a truly Carrie-inspired look. For something a little less sweet and more bold, opt for a pair with a chunky block heel and square toe. Wear them with jeans for a comfortable yet cool look.
Platforms
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The higher the heel, the closer the sky, or so they say, right? Platforms are a great choice for dressier occasions. They are handy if your dress is too long and you haven’t had time to hem it. But they’re more than just a quick fix for your wardrobe. Platform sandals don’t need to hide under layers of fabric; they can be the star of the show. Worn with mid-length dresses, they shine brightly. Opt for an ultra-chic shiny satin pair, or choose something in megawatt metal to elevate the look, making it cocktail attire appropriate.
Slides
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Some days comfort is essential and we understand that you can’t spend every day on five-inch platforms. Who doesn’t love a comfortable slide? Perfect for everything from runs to Pilates, these are the go-to shoes to slip in and out of. Fortunately, fashion has embraced this style and brands now offer slides in a variety of styles, fabrics and colors.
Sports styles
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Sporty-looking sandals like Tevas have been around forever, and recently, designers have been putting their own unique spin on these classically “ugly” shoes. This season, Miu Miu presented its own version of the sporty sandal with the Riviere sandals, characterized by their use of athletic cords. So if chunky, dad-inspired sports sandals aren’t quite your style, the Riviere offers a chic and stylish alternative.
Platforms
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We’ve already talked about platform sandals, so now it’s time to explore their more casual counterpart: the platform sandal. Unlike platforms, which feature a thicker heel and a slightly thinner front sole creating a height difference, platforms have a uniformly thick sole along the entire length of the shoe, keeping the toe and heel at the same height. This design offers a modern, fashion-forward look, providing comfort and height without the steep angle of heels. While platforms are often preferred for more formal looks due to their classic heel-like appearance, platforms are ideal for those looking for a casual, comfortable feel with added height.
Fuzzy feet
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Everything fur-related has its moment, the fall-winter 2024 shows were filled with (faux) fur coats, bags and shoes. The hairy feet trend is therefore perfect for avant-garde fashion aficionados who aren’t afraid to experiment. While it may not be the most classic style, it’s a fun way to participate in the trend without going overboard.
Block heel
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The block heel has risen through the ranks due to its comfort and versatility. When it comes to summer shoes, they don’t get any more adaptable than this. Wear them to work, to happy hour or on a night out: the chunky heel is perfect for summer weddings because it avoids sinking into the grass. Defined by their chunky block heel, block heels come in high and mid-height options, catering to various preferences and occasions.
Embellished
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A little embellishment goes a long way. Consider this pair, for example: The heel is fairly low, making them suitable for daytime wear, but the embellishments elevate the shoe, so they feel dressy enough for nighttime and chic occasions.
Fisherman
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Another style once labeled “ugly” that has gained popularity is the fisherman sandal. The chic and sensible androgynous style pairs perfectly with billowy linen, lending a sophisticated touch to the airy fabric. These sandals also complement sleek, fitted pants and crisp blouses, enhancing the overall elegance of the look. Thanks to their semi-closed toe design, they are timeless, ideal for wearing throughout the fall and winter with thick socks and jeans.
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