Coco Chanel once said that with just four pairs of shoes, she could travel the world. While we all have our go-to styles, a pair of stylish summer sandals is a must-have in my travel bag. Whether strolling through a new city, walking along the boardwalk, or enjoying a fancy afternoon cocktail, sandals are my top choice for warm-weather adventures.
Unfortunately, my current sandal collection is lacking, and to make matters worse, I’m not a fan of the latest shoe trends. On a mission to find delicate, feminine sandals to complement my baby-blue pedicure, I was disappointed by the overwhelming presence of chunky, thick-soled designs. It seems some designers have forgotten about those of us who love a more elegant, girly look.
Determined to go against the chunky shoe trend, I spent way too much time searching for cute, affordable, and timeless sandals. If you’re looking to walk your own way this season, here are ten stylish options to consider.
The Asher sandal features a wide band across the foot, balanced by a slim toe string running down the center. A gold-colored detail where the toe string meets the band adds a touch of shine and sophistication. Priced at $40, this sandal comes in nine colors, but my favorite is the woven multicolored version in orange, pink, and yellow—on-trend shades for the season, even if the style itself isn’t.
Next up is the $45 Carbren sandal by Kelly & Katie, available in black or snakeskin. With its slide design and sturdy block heel, this versatile sandal pairs effortlessly with jeans, shorts, skirts, or dresses. It’s easy to dress up or down, and thanks to its classic styling, it’s a piece you can keep in your wardrobe for years.
For an elegant twist on the classic flip-flop, the $60 Cristal sandal by Franco Sarto is a standout. It reminds me of Ginger from *Gilligan’s Island*—I can just picture her slipping these on with one of her signature evening gowns. The toe loop keeps the sandal secure, while the squared toe and stacked cork heel add a refined touch. Pair these with a floral summer dress or skirt for a polished yet casual look.
The $45 Caela espadrille blends the espadrille and slide styles into a chic, flat-soled sandal perfect for summer outings. The open toe highlights your pedicure, while the quilted vamp strap adds just the right amount of texture. Available in black, white, or bold red, I personally love the black, but the red is a great choice if you’re feeling adventurous.
Crevo’s $30 Saffron knot slide has an organic, laid-back feel, thanks to its woven texture on the heel and vamp strap. Plus, with memory foam padding, these sandals are comfortable enough for a full day of city sightseeing. I love that the multicolored pattern adds a bit of flair while still being neutral enough to match a variety of outfits.
Normally, I’d cringe at the thought of a flat-soled shoe, imagining the discomfort after a few miles of walking. But Zara’s $70 strappy low-heel sandal features an Airfit latex foam insole for extra cushioning. The long ties offer versatility—wrap them low around your ankle for a subtle look or go bold with a gladiator-style wrap up to your knees.
Another Zara pick is a pink sandal with a 3.3-inch heel and a sleek vinyl strap. It’s elegant and feminine without being over-the-top. I’d pair this $50 sandal with an A-line denim skirt and a tank top for a stylish contrast to the bulky, utilitarian shoes dominating the market. Plus, the latex foam insole ensures added comfort.
For a sandal that’s sure to spark conversation, the Cody sandal by Simmi London is a must-have. Featuring a wide, clear strap and two thinner embellished straps, this design takes casual sophistication to the next level. Expect compliments from friends, even when you’re just wearing them with denim shorts. Best of all, they’re a steal at $35 from ASOS.
If you want to acknowledge current trends without fully committing, the $43 Nissa toe sandal is a great option. Orange is everywhere this season, making it easy to match your pedicure to your shoes. With a 3.7-inch heel, it’s on the higher side for a sandal, but I love how the bold heel and color are balanced by minimalist styling. Pair these with a neutral outfit to let them take center stage.
These ten sandals prove that you don’t have to follow every trend to find stylish, comfortable footwear. Whether you prefer classic elegance or a pop of color, there’s a perfect pair waiting for you this summer.