If there’s one thing my friends can count on me for, it’s knowing which trends are about to hit the mainstream. "Soph," they say, "what's in fashion, and what should I be buying?" Right now, I’m advising my nearest and dearest to invest in their summer footwear. It’s the quickest way to upgrade your spring outfits and take them one step closer to summer (pun fully intended). Open-toe season is officially here, and it's time to book in that pedi.
In terms of what's trending, I’m calling it: flat shoes will rule summer 2025, so I'm eschewing trainers and heels in favour of comfy styles that feel elegant and put-together for both day and evening. There's a plethora of flats on offer for summer, which are equally as chic (and sometimes even chicer) than their heeled counterparts. With the sun high in the sky and the mercury rising, there's no better time to experiment a little, and footwear is my favourite way to give a look real intention and style.
Whilst researching summer’s strongest shoe trends, a few things became clear. Strappy sandals are so back, in leather and suede variations, pared-back neutrals and head-turning colours. There are also some closed-toe options coming to the fore, with barely-there mesh flats and jelly styles which have been given luxe updates (don’t be deceived; you still may want to have your toes done for these two). And finally, of course, there's the humble flip-flop. Traditionally banished to the poolside, the oft-misunderstood sandal is going through a renaissance period, and fashion people can't get enough.
Scroll on for my pick of the best flat-shoe trends for summer 2025.
1. Colour-Pop Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: If you're typically a minimalist dresser but fancy a little flourish of artful colour to ring in the sunshine, look no further. I've noticed fashion people who tend to dress in neutral, pared-back tones choosing colour-pop sandals with skinny straps and simple profiles. Choose a bright primary tone to give your simple looks a dopamine hit.
SHOP THE TREND:
I love the mix of leather and suede with the deep jade green. These look so expensive.
These would team beautifully with a nude or bright-red pedicure.
I'm always drawn to this shade of blue. The square toe is also a nice modern touch.
The perfect holiday sandals! I love the knotted details.
2. '90s-Style Flip-Flops
Style Notes: There's no denying that flip-flops are bang on trend. The V-shape thong silhouette gives a leg-lengthening effect, which is great for petite people, and not only that, but the sheer ease of slipping them on allows you to simply go about your day. If you're looking for a dose of Olsen energy in your daily 'fits (The Row pioneered luxury flip-flops), this is the summer shoe for you. It's so '90s and yet so very now.
SHOP THE TREND:
Ancient Greek Sandals has combined two summer 2025 flats trends in one with these jelly numbers (more on that later).
Chocolate-brown suede just looks so expensive. I'll be purchasing these.
An option designed with comfort in mind for happy, healthy feet—great for daily wear.
These look so sleek and classy.
3. Mesh Ballet Flats
Style Notes: We at Who What Wear UK have been singing the praises of mesh ballet flats for a while now, but this summer, you really will see them everywhere. Keep it simple with a sheer or nude hue, or spice up your look with a solid block colour.
SHOP THE TREND:
The unexpected red theory is still going strong. These pretty ballerinas will have people double-taking.
Take it back to black with this cult-favourite pair from The Row.
This pop of blue is so cute, and very Sofia Richie Grainge-coded.
These will show off your summer pedi in all its glory. Thank you, Le Monde Béryl!
4. Suede Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: I know, suede sandals are nothing new. However, this summer, they've become more luxurious and polished than ever. Retire your dusty Birkenstocks and invest in a style which is more unique, grown-up and considered. Your feet (and your 'fit pics) will thank you for it.
SHOP THE TREND:
There's a reason A.Emery's Jalen sandals just keep selling out. They're a fashion-person favourite.
COS does expensive-looking high-street accessories like no other. I just know I'll live in these all summer long.
I can't believe how high-end these look. Hush is so good right now!
I love a little Western touch. The buckle detail takes these simple, supple suede sandals to the next level.
5. Netted Jelly Shoes
Style Notes: The Row sent the internet into a frenzy when it launched its netted jelly flats last summer. The rest of the world is finally catching on and falling (back, if you were a kid in the '90s) in love with jelly sandals in 2025, hook, line and sinker. Mary-Jane shapes and ballet-flat updates make the trend feel contemporary and tasteful.
SHOP THE TREND:
These are a must for me this summer. They're unexpected but so cute.
A purse-friendly price for those wanting to try out the trend.
Everyone will be talking about your shoes.
The slightly smaller netting makes these a little more refined. The turquoise is so pretty, but they also come in four other colours.
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