Every season, there's a handful of sandal styles that supersedes the rest. Shoppers are looking for pairs that strike a balance between practical and over-the-top, something cool with a manageable heel.
Between the never-ending scroll of Instagram and the globe-spanning array of runway reports, it can be difficult to keep up with the must-try trends of the season—especially those you’re hoping will last beyond sale season. Before shopping, answer this question: Do you want kicks you can wear every day or a pair that you reach for every once in a while? If you’re on the hunt for a statement shoe, The Attico’s Devon sandals have already amassed a cult following. More practical styles include anything of the slip-on variation, but with a luxe twist, like JW Anderson’s Chain Slides.
This article first appeared in Harper’s BAZAAR US
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Thanks to styles like Daniel Lee’s netted sandals for Bottega Veneta, the mesh design is having a major moment right now. With an emphasis on the open-knit pattern for summer 2021, many brands have added details like ankle ties and anklet chains to set theirs apart from the bunch.
From the bright-green colour to the open-net design, Bottega Veneta’s sandals are on track to becoming one of the most-coveted styles for summer 2021.
Designed with a classic buckle strap across the ankle, Gianvito Rossi’s peep-toe sandals put a traditional spin on the netted-mesh trend.
For shoppers looking to embrace the netted trend in a more casual way, Miista’s Stephanie sandal comes in an array of colours with a manageable heel that looks great with jeans.
Add a little drama to your lineup of classic heels by investing in streamlined styles with anklet detailing. Per some of the most well-known names on the market (think, Amina Muaddi and Jimmy Choo), it’s bound to be the only shoe you’ll want to wear out this summer.
Made in collaboration with creative agency AWGE, Amina Muaddi’s embellished Flacko sandal is named after founder A$AP Rocky’s nickname.
The Sae sandal by Jimmy Choo has the makings to be your new go-to heel for both the office and a night out. Plus, the chain-link anklet detail will highlight any skin-baring ensemble.
Saint Laurent’s sandal offers a more discreet take on the trend with a thin gold chain draped from the ankle strap.
One of the best parts of having a pair of sky-high heels on hand is their undeniable ability to have a leg-lengthening effect and create a streamlined silhouette. It’s one of the reasons why brands like The Attico and Nodaleto have gravitated toward the design for summer 2021. Pro tip: Opt for a style in a candy-coloured shade to fully commit to the trend.
With famous fans like Hailey Bieber and the Kardashian-Jenner crew, The Attico’s Devon sandal is a certified hit among the style set.
Those with an affinity for chunky footwear will love the retro feel of Nodaleto’s Bulla mules.
Designed in a shade of mint green dubbed the must-try colour of the season, Ferragamo’s sandal allows you to embrace two trends in one with its steep, sculpture-like heel.
Keeping in line with the trend of practicality for 2020, summer 2021 is all about the comfortable shoe with a chic twist. Fan favourites include the sandal version of JW Anderson’s coveted chain loafers and any leather slides from household names like The Row. The best part is that the footwear trend can be worn with biker shorts running errands or free-flowing sundresses alike.
If you weren’t able to get your hands on a pair of the chain-detailed mules, then now’s your chance to snag the cult design in sandal form.
You can’t go wrong with a platform slide that’s bound to give every outfit a lift.
For a more modern spin, Khaite’s Venice slide has a sunken-in design that cradles your foot for ample comfort.
If you keep up with the latest shoe trends, then you know that thong heel sandals made a brief but noticeable appearance last year. So it makes sense that they would come back for summer 2021.
Inspired by the house’s sportier styles from the ’90s and early aughts, Prada’s logo-plaque thong sandal has a slight kitten heel that’s well sized for the everyday.
Leave it to The Row to put a classic spin on an unconventional silhouette. This slingback ankle strap sandal features an adjustable buckle for a flexible fit.
Simon Miller re-created its Beep sandal from past collections for summer 2021 with padded straps and rich but practical colourways.
Caged sandals may be reminiscent of something your grandfather or uncle would wear to a family gathering, but it’s a style worth adding to your transitional wardrobe. The interlocked design comes highly approved by brands like The Row and Marni, and is great for spring and summer days when the weather may be unpredictable.
Made with canvas straps, Marni’s buckled sandal is a great alternative to the more commonly found leather styles.
Church’s heeled Kelsey sandal is designed with a comfortable stacked block heel that sets it apart from other styles on the market.