When the temperatures rise, the sandals come out—and this summer, shoe trends are all about balance: comfort meets polish, minimalism meets detail, and nostalgia meets modern updates. Whether you’re headed to brunch, the beach, or just running errands in style, these 12 summer shoe trends for 2025 will keep your feet cool and your outfits even cooler.
I was going to include a few in the summer trends post, but summer shoe trends are so numerous and fun, that I dedicated a separate post to them.
Here’s what to slip into this season:
1. Thong Sandals
These aren’t the flip-flops of our beach days past—2025’s thong sandals are refined and fashion-forward. Think sleek leather straps, cushioned footbeds, and elevated neutrals. Perfect with everything from linen trousers to flowy dresses.
You can also dress up your looks with a thong kitten heel sandal. These work with dresses, skirts, trousers and jeans alike.
Style Tip: Choose a pair in a luxe material like leather or with a slight heel for a grown-up take on this breezy classic.
2. Toe Ring Sandals
This delicate detail adds just enough interest to a simple sandal. The toe loop offers a secure fit while adding an elegant touch to minimalist designs.
Reasons to Love It: It’s a subtle nod to boho style without going full festival mode. Ideal for vacation or weekend wear.
3. Buckle Sandals
Chunky or slim, buckle details are everywhere. Not only are they functional, but they also add edge and structure to otherwise soft summer outfits.
Pair With: Cropped wide-leg pants, cotton midi dresses, or tailored shorts.
4. Strappy Sandals
Skinny straps continue to dominate. Whether you love a gladiator-inspired wrap or a barely-there ankle strap, these sandals elongate the leg and add visual interest.
Comfort Hack: Look for styles with padded soles or a block heel for extra wearability.
5. Minimalist Sandals
Clean lines, neutral tones, and barely-there silhouettes make minimalist sandals an instant wardrobe staple. They’re the “go with everything” shoe of the season. These tend to cross over into the toe ring sandal but not all minimalist sandals have the toe loop. Clear strap sandals are a good choice in this category too.
Perfect For: Capsule wardrobes, travel, or simply keeping your look effortlessly chic.
6. Jelly Shoes
Yes, jelly shoes are back—but with grown-up appeal. Today’s versions are translucent, colorful, and surprisingly comfortable, offering a nostalgic twist with modern sensibility.
Try It: In a soft pastel or clear hue for a playful, unexpected pop. Wear them in a mature way in black or clear with tailored trousers or shorts.
7. Espadrilles
A summer classic, espadrilles are back in full swing. Whether you prefer a slip-on or wedge style, their breathable canvas and rope soles scream coastal chic. The “in” new twist is the espadrille flat, and make it a Mary Jane flat.
Wear With: Linen pants, cotton sundresses, skorts, or denim skirts.
8. Slingback Sandals
The slingback gets a summer makeover in flat, block heel, or kitten heel styles. They’re easy to walk in and add polish to casual outfits.
Bonus: The strap helps keep your heel secure without sacrificing ventilation.
9. Sandals with Hardware
Metal accents, chains, and studs are giving sandals a bold edge. This trend brings just the right amount of shine and structure to casual looks.
Styling Idea: Let the hardware do the talking and keep the rest of your outfit simple.
10. Square Toe Sandals
Modern and architectural, square toe sandals are flattering and fashion-forward. The geometric shape works especially well with wide-leg pants or midi dresses.
Tip: A low block heel version adds sophistication without sacrificing comfort.
11. Slide and Crisscross Sandals
Crisscross straps add support, style, and structure to flat or heeled sandals alike. They’re universally flattering and help visually balance wider feet. Other slide sandals come in h-band or strap styles and are both a classic and a trend for this summer.
Great For: Everyday errands, casual lunches, or pairing with summer maxi dresses.
12. Slim Sneakers
Sneakers – Belk
If sandals aren’t your go-to, slim sneakers are the summer shoe MVP. Lightweight, breathable, and low-profile, these shoes work with dresses, shorts, or joggers.
Look For: Canvas, mesh, or light leather options in neutral or soft hues.
Summer 2025 is all about wearable trends that blend comfort and style. Whether you’re into sleek minimalist looks or want to dip into something playful like jelly sandals or hardware accents, there’s a trend here to elevate your warm-weather wardrobe.
So tell me—what’s your go-to summer shoe?
Let me know in the comments or shop my curated favorites from each category.
