Put Your Best Foot Forward With This Ultimate Guide to Summer Shoes

Credit: Stuart Weitzman

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Step into summer with the perfect shoe lineup. Whether traveling to Europe, heading to the pool, or grabbing lunch with friends, find the ideal summer shoe for every outfit and any occasion. We’ve come up with the ultimate guide to all the trendiest shoes for 2024 to help you put your best foot forward this summer.

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Flip Flops

We’re starting this list with everyone’s go-to summer shoe: the flip flop. In summer 2024, this expands outside the trusty rubber-soled styles, even though they’ll always be a pool necessity. Current flip-flop trends include the classic black thong, metallic coloring, platforms, and shoe jewelry. These elevated styles are easy to dress up or down whether you’re running to the grocery store or catching lunch with an old friend.

Free People

Seychelles Miley Bow Sandals

$40
$40
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Credit: Free People

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Tory Burch

Patos Flip Flop

$238
$238
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Credit: Tory Burch

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Nordstrom

Coconut by Matisse Owen Platform Flip Flop

$78
$78
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Credit: Nordstrom

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Wedge

Wedges are finally making their comeback, and I’m so here for it! The rise in popularity shot up almost immediately following the Chloé show in March. However, this trend is not one traced back to the runway. Celebrities, Sienna Miller, Liya Kebede, Pat Cleveland, and Georgia May Jagger all sat front row at the show and were photographed wearing the same Maxime Wedge Sandal ($1,190). Since then, we’ve seen wedges everywhere so if this Chloé pair isn’t in your budget opt for one of the styles below.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Castañer Fortuna Raffia Wedge Sandal

$420
$420
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Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue

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Saks Fifth Avenue

Stuart Weitzman Canvas Espadrille Wedge

$350
$350
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Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue

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Revolve

Free People Mila Wedge

$148
$148
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Credit: Revolve

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Summer Sneakers

Just because it’s hot out, doesn’t mean you need to give up your closed-toed shoes. Some outfits or events just work better with sneakers! When choosing a summer sneaker specifically, try to steer clear of overly chunky or high-top styles as well as dark, autumnal colors or fabrics. Opting for a crisp white shoe seen on celebrities like Emily Ratakowski or a bright staple piece that Bella Hadid loves will brighten and liven the overall outfit making it perfect for the season.

Dolce Vita

Notice Sneakers

$139
$139
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Credit: Dolce Vita

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Neiman Marcus

Vince Oasis Retro Sneakers

$250
$250
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Credit: Neiman Marcus

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All Saints

Thelma Suede Low Top Sneaker

$199
$199
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Credit: All Saints

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All Saints
Dolce Vita
$139
$139
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$250
$250
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Slides

After the rise in popularity of the Hérmes Oran Sandal among celebrities and fashion influencers, slides with like silhouettes grew in popularity due to their versatility and simplicity. These shoes are the perfect combination of comfort and style. Throw them on to easily elevate any outfit!

Tuckernuck

Cognac Leather Alibi Sandal

$155
$155
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Credit: Tuckernuck

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Reformation

Peridot Mignon Knot Flat Sandal

$148
$148
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Credit: Reformation

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Anine Bing

Lizzie Slides

$450
$450
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Credit: Anine Bing

I already have these slides in black, but the Taupe would be another amazing addition to my outfit rotation. Anine Bing makes up a decent majority of my wardrobe in general because her clothes are so comfortable, classic, and well-made. These slides in particular because they can seamlessly go from day to night—comfortable enough to pick up my kids, but also refined enough for me to wear on a date with my hot husband.

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Anine Bing
Anine Bing
$450
$450
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Heeled Sandals

No matter the social occasion, I always need a little height which is why the heeled sandal is one of my summer favorites. Style a colorful strappy sandal with a flowy white dress or a mini kitten heel with a pair of linen pants. These styles can be worn with a range of outfits and are a perfect opportunity to have fun with accessorizing.

Nordstrom

Jeffrey Campbell Cinnamon Sandal

$149.95
$149.95
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Credit: Nordstrom

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Tory Burch

Capri Low-Heeled Sandal

$248
$248
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Credit: Tory Burch

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Dolce Vita

Elodie Heel

$220
$220
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Credit: Dolce Vita

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Dolce Vita
Nordstrom
$149.95
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$248
$248
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$220
$220
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“Wear” To:

What shoes do I wear on a trip to Europe?

Whether you’re island hopping in Greece or sightseeing in France, comfortable shoes are an absolute must. With trips like this, 30k steps a day is totally normal. For those big walking days, I’d recommend a summer sneaker or espadrille for increased support while beach or boat days may call for a chic sandal or slide. The key to any vacation shoe, however, is to wear them in before your big trip. Pack two or three pairs of shoes that will go with every outfit to save space. My top picks include this Sam Edelman Dina Fisherman Mule, a J. Crew, Mary Jane Espadrille and this Alo, Recovery Mode Sneaker ($185).

What shoes do I wear to the beach or pool?

Laying out in the summer sun is supposed to be fun and relaxing so wear shoes that accompany that. Lighter colors may be the way to go as they reflect the heat. Plus, make sure they’re waterproof so they can last all season. Go for these Lululemon Slides, a Jeffrey Campbell, Elemental Sandal, or opt for these go-to Havianas Red Flip Flops.

What shoes do I wear to work in the summer?

With the UV high and coworkers on PTO, working during the summer can feel draining at times. Wearing a good outfit is one way to make it a bit more exciting. At most jobs, closed-toed shoes are a must so espadrilles and Mary Janes are great options. Play with material and color for a fun summer touch to any work outfit. My top picks include Anthropologie’s Mary Jane Slides, these adorable Hilly Leather Pumps from Schutz, and Bibi Lou’s Pink Woven Mule.

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