Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki
Over the years, I've found that sandals, like swimwear or It dresses, wait for no stylish person. The best styles sell out fast, particularly when they’re chic and at the lower end of the price spectrum—the sweet spot for any savvy person buying sandals.
You may know by now that we're big advocates of buying quality over quantity, and well-made shoes do last longer, generally look better and are likely to be more comfortable. However, because sandals get so battered so quickly (not to mention they become dirty when you’re walking around a city like London every day), I would say this is one shoe category that you can legitimately spend less on and not feel like you’re compromising on style.
Like always, make sure you are purchasing wisely. Are your chosen sandals versatile, stylish, comfortable and likely to look just as current next year? All of these boxes need to be ticked if you want longevity from your more affordable footwear.
A few brands, in particular, have really impressed me with their summer sandal offerings (& Other Stories and Mango included), producing chic, grown-up and elevated styles that I feel have staying power and look like they are made to be sturdier than some cheaper footwear.
Keep scrolling to see the high-street sandals on my radar right now.
1. H&M
Style Notes: When it comes to refreshing my warm-weather shoe collection, H&M remains my reliable go-to. Season after season, the brand delivers an impressive array of on-trend styles and classic silhouettes, all at an accessible price point. From sleek sandals to easy slip-ons, their designs offer the perfect balance of affordability and sophistication.
We predict these leather flip-flops will sell out fast. Available in sophisticated brown and classic black, they look far more expensive than their price tag.
If, like all of us at Who What Wear UK, you're already a fan of this contemporary design, then you’ll love this contrast croc-print version—a playful twist on a classic.
Another H&M classic, this is the pair I find myself returning to year after year when refreshing my summer shoe collection.
2. ZARA
Style Notes: If in doubt, you can always rely on Zara's shoe department to serve up designer-looking styles on a budget, and this season's lineup is no exception.
This silhouette takes the ever-popular metallic toe-ring design and elevates it with a strappy construction, resulting in something truly special.
Also available in a medium brown and playful gold, this is the perfect pair to help you reimagine your summer styling.
The cross design paired with brown suede not only looks incredibly chic on the foot, but I have it on good authority that these offer all-day comfort.
3. M&S
Style Notes: Marks and Spencer knocks it out of the ballpark every year with its brilliant sandals. The brand's penchant for comfortable yet stylish pieces makes them one of my first destinations for timeless shoe shopping, always.
These block-heel sandals pair functionality with style, and I love the toe-ring detail.
Aren’t these just darling? With a sophisticated sprinkle of colour, this baby-blue-and-brown pairing delivers a striking contrast combined with an elegant silhouette.
Subtle stud embellishment and soft suede make for a bold yet versatile option.
4. COS
Style Notes: A personal favourite of mine, COS is known for high-quality contemporary minimalism and is the go-to destination if you're in the market for pared-back designs that hold their value. Its pieces are a worthy investment because they last.
A perfect blend between the ever-popular thong sandal and a kitten heel with contemporary COS edge. These are poised to become your new go-to.
I’ve already spotted so many people wearing sandals in this exact style and colour on the streets of London.
Fisherman sandals are one of the best choices you can make when creating a chic and sophisticated summer outfit. I love how this pair incorporates a dark chocolate-brown shade, adding a rich, modern twist to this design.
5. MANGO
Style Notes: I had a sneak preview of Mango's summer sandals, and boy, are they good. From minimalist flatform flip-flops to wedding-guest–ready strappy styles, there's a lot to love here.
Dripping with clean minimalism and with an undeniably cool edge, these leather-strapped platform sandals perfectly embody the essence of Scandinavian style.
Gold strappy sandals elevate any outfit with their subtle gleam. Whether paired with a breezy dress or tailored trousers, they'll add a touch of luxury to your warm-weather dressing.
The perfect choice for a laid-back yet polished look. I’d pair them with a white linen co-ord for a relaxed afternoon in the sunshine.
6. & Other Stories
Style Notes: Whether you're looking for a chunky everyday style or a strappy heel, & Other Stories has some of the best sandals on the high street this year, and it seems many fashion people agree.
Re-released each year, we scramble to get our hands on a pair every time. Effortless, versatile and endlessly wearable, it's no surprise these sell out time and again.
I’m in love with this suede block-heel pair—the perfect combination of comfort and style. I’d pair them with a white A-line skirt and a matching waistcoat for an elevated summer look that’s both fresh and sophisticated.
Thong leather sandals pretty much always look chic. I’d style these with a pair of blue barrel-leg jeans and an off-white tank.
7. ARKET
Style Notes: Arket's edit of shoes may be small, but it's perfectly formed. With a mini edit of sleek and chic flat sandals, if you're a minimalist, you're going to love them.
Simply slide on and look cool.
I adore the tiny kitten heel and the covered ankle on these—support and comfort without sacrificing style will always be my kind of shoe.
Nothing says summer style like a pair of simple brown suede sandals.
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