Summer is coming. Believe it or not, those sunny days and balmy nights are on their way. We’ve had a little taste of it this spring—an appetiser if you will—to get us excited about what’s to come. And if you’re anything like me, at that initial whiff of warm weather, the first thing you did was reach for your sandals.
You could call it an obsession that I have with this summer shoe style, but I like to call it an appreciation. After all, simple sandals can do great things in any wardrobe. When it’s sunny but still a little chilly in spring, you can add them to any and all of your jeans and bring them instantly into the new season. Pair them with your relaxed tailoring on office days, or style a heeled pair with a pretty wedding guest outfit. And then, come summer days, throw them on with dresses for an effortless combination that works every time.
If you ask me, versatility is the key to the perfect sandals, along with great quality. Then, you can wear your chosen pair again and again with everything you already own in your wardrobe. And since you’ll be spending so much time together, your next investment isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. An easily worn-away sole or uncomfortably stiff shape will render your sandals unwearable from the start, and we certainly don’t want that.
That’s why I thought I’d put my infatuation to good use and create an expert edit for you, including only the sandals that, out of the hundreds of pairs I’ve already scrolled through this year for research, have seriously impressed me. Scroll down, and you’ll find the 25 pairs I would recommend, from classic leather slides to this season’s most-wanted fisherman sandals. There are some premium styles from the high street that I’ve tried and tested and some more luxe styles from brands that put quality and craftsmanship first. All of them, though, are under £250, which is still an investment but one that you should easily reap the rewards of thanks to how timeless these styles are.
1. Fisherman
These could so easily pass for designer.
Classic fisherman sandals for wearing with pretty dresses.
I've tried this myself, and they look great with jeans.
A truly timeless pair of sandals that make me think of a chic French woman's wardrobe.
These are a good middle ground if you don't want anything too chunky.
2. Leather Slide
Use the discount code SPRING20 to bring these under £250.
So chic.
Minimalism at its best.
St. Agni is one of my favourite summer brands.
The slight wedge on these make them feel slightly smarter.
3. Flatform
I personally think this chunky flip-flop style is so flattering.
These feel like walking on clouds.
A slight flatform makes these strappy sandals feel really modern.
These have already proven so popular, so be quick to secure your size.
Chunky but still elegant.
4. Simple and Strappy
This is a great summer sandal brand to know.
How good would these look with a white dress?
Simple but effective—you'll wear these for years.
These look so delicate on the foot.
Tan sandals are a holiday classic.
5. Double-Strap
Not only do these look good, but they're super comfy, too.
Birkenstocks, but make them fashion.
I've just added these to my sandal wish list since they look so good with tailored trousers.
These were Arket's best sellers last year.
Truly a classic that goes with everything.
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