Curating the perfect collection of sundresses and linen pants for a stylish and wearable summer wardrobe is important, but this season, it's clear that jewelry and footwear have emerged as the true stars of the show. These accessories hold the transformative power to elevate even the simplest outfits, turning them from meh to must-have and creating looks that every fashion person will be scrambling to replicate.
As a self-proclaimed shoe snob and shopping expert, I'm here to share my thoughts on the summer shoe trends that have reached their expiration date and the fresh and elegant styles insiders are actually wearing. Consider this your guide to ensuring your summer footwear choices feel current and 2025 ready. There are seven key silhouettes making waves, each with an alternative option that feels decidedly dated. Without further ado, keep scrolling to see which summer shoe trends are officially out and which are defining the season.
Out: Rubber Slides
In: Fashion Flip-Flops
Trend Notes: We already know elevated flip-flops from brands like The Row, A.Emery, and Ancient Greek Sandals are the summer's hottest shoe trend. If that wasn't exciting enough, Mary-Kate Olsen, known as the ultimate style icon, just wore a pair in the Hamptons this week, making flip-flops a must-have in any fashion lover's collection. If you still don't own a pair, what are you waiting for? Whether you choose the popular Open Edit Tori Sandals favored by Who What Wear editors or COS's luxurious leather style, you can't go wrong. They're sure to stay in style through 2026—no doubt about it.
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Out: Platform Heels
In: Kitten-Heel Mules
Trend Notes: Undoubtedly, flip-flops are the leading summer shoe trend, but the often-overlooked kitten-heel mules are gaining popularity. Fashion people in Paris, like Sylvie Mus, and celebrities between L.A. and Venice, such as Sydney Sweeney, are embracing this shoe style—and for good reason. These shoes are easy to slip on, add a touch of height, come in various styles, and complement dresses, skirts, and jeans equally well.
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Out: Espadrille Wedges
In: Thong Wedges
Trend Notes: Since discovering Alaïa's Satin Wedge Sandals in April, I anticipated they would impact summer footwear trends, and I was right. These stylish and sophisticated shoes with a comfortable fit inspired brands like Madewell, Reformation, and Source Unknown to create their own versions.
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Out: Platform Sneakers
In: Retro Sneakers
Trend Notes: As a five-foot-tall girl myself, I understand the desire for a little extra height. When it comes to sneakers, however, I'm happy to sacrifice some inches for a stylish look. This means I plan to embrace the retro-runner trend instead of platform sneakers. Specifically, COS's Minimal Leather Sneakers and Jacquemus's new Tennis Sneakers are my top choices for staying comfortable while still looking chic this summer.
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Out: Gladiator Sandals
In: Naked Sandals
Trend Notes: For the past few summers, naked and strappy sandals (done in a tasteful way) have been adorning the feet of seasoned fashion shoppers. They feature clean, minimal lines that create a sleek look and offer versatility when paired with patterned dresses and white pants. The Row's iconic and now-sold-out Bare Sandals perfectly exemplify this trend.
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Out: PVC Pumps
In: Jelly Flats
Trend Notes: I don't know about you, but I'm glad PVC pumps are out of fashion now. Maybe not in Jennifer Lopez's style book, but outside that circle, people are swapping those shoes for jelly flats. Styles such as caged sandals and flip-flops are a hit with the style crowd, and even bold colors like red and blue are making a splash. They're cute and fun and a simple way for minimalists to add some flair and color to their summer wardrobes.
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Out: Combat Boots
In: Cowboy Boots
Trend Notes: If you follow celebrity street style looks like those of Kaia Gerber, Kendall Jenner, and Emily Ratajkowski, then you've probably noticed that these fashion icons have been wearing cowboy boots with everything from minidresses to baggy jeans despite the high temperatures. As with most boot styles, you might normally associate them with winter, but cowboy boots have proven that they're just as relevant for the warmer months, too, making them a year-round staple.
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Keep This Between You and Me: I Just Found a $165 Alt for The Row's Viral and Sold-Out $1300 HeelsYou're welcome.
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If You Want to Look Like a Chic Fashion Person, Wear This Shoe Trend With Cropped PantsSelena Gomez is on board.
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Did Foot-Jewelry Shoes Just Become the Biggest Trend of 2025?Anklets and toe rings are on hiatus.
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This Fall, Say Goodbye to Ballerinas Because This New Flat-Shoe Trend Is Taking Its PlaceAnd it's even more sophisticated.
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The Results Are In: These Are the Designer Shoes Dominating Summer 2025Sneakers, sandals, and more.
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Forget Flip-Flops and Strappy Sandals—This Is the Elegant Shoe Trend Fashion People Are Wearing With Pedal PushersHailey Bieber and EmRata are among the fashion girls.
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All Five Toes Are In—5 "Weird" Shoe Trends to Try This SummerChic foot pics loading here.
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I'm Booking an Emergency Mani-Pedi After Spotting These 5 Pretty Skirt-and-Sandal CombosSeen on Kylie Jenner and Alexa Chung.
