It’s true—for years, flip-flops have been synonymous with easy summer dressing. They’re the shoes we instinctively reach for when the temperatures rise, and whether we’re heading to the beach, running weekend errands or packing for a holiday abroad, they’re the throw-on-and-go wonder that we’ve come to rely on. But this season, fashion’s most stylish dressers are proving there’s a whole host of chic alternatives that deserve a place in your warm-weather wardrobe too. Offering the same effortless appeal, but with a noticeably more elevated finish, this summer’s biggest anti-flip-flop trends strike the perfect balance between comfort, versatility and polish.
From nostalgic colour trends and elegant flats, to timeless woven sandals and refined loafers, the shoes dominating both the streets and the runways feel considered yet incredibly easy to wear. They pair just as effortlessly with linen trousers as they do floaty dresses, Bermuda shorts and tailored separates, making them the kind of hardworking investments you’ll reach for time and time again. And, better still, these styles transition seamlessly from casual daytime to your evening plans too, proving that practical footwear doesn’t have to compromise on style.
So, f you’re looking to refresh your summer wardrobe or simply want an alternative to the ubiquitous flip-flop, you’ve come to the right place dear reader. Keep scrolling to see the key summer shoe trends fashion editors, influencers and industry insiders are embracing this season—styles that feel modern, timeless and destined to become the hardest-working pairs in your collection (and not a flip flop in sight).
1. Cage Shoes
Style Notes: One of my favourite things about flip-flops is how breathable they are. On the hottest days you won’t want to commit to full coverage, leather shoe, and for that reason, caged sandals should be high on your agenda. Just as easy to slip on and go, but with a little more directional detailing, from jellies to leather, cages sandals are proving popular during heatwaves when you need a shoe smarter than a flip-flop .
Shop Cages Sandals:
It’s hard to believe that these are from the high street.
Perhaps my dream sandals.
These come in a8 equally strong colours.
The suede has a sumptuous feel, no?
How to wear caged sandals for evening.
2. Gold Sandals
Style Notes: Eat your heart out, Carrie Bradshaw—statement gold sandals have skyrocketed almost overnight, an expected colour choice for sunny summers. It makes perfect sense though, once the sun catches this metallic, it really comes alive, so whether you’re wearing an equally dressy slip, or styling up a white tee and jeans, these shoes are the focal point that are sure to earn you compliments.
Shop Gold Sandals:
I’ve had my eye on these for so long, I think it’s finally time to commit.
A French classic.
Yes, gold flats are just as impactful.
Just try and keep these away from a dancefloor.
There’s something so noughties-coded about these fun wedges.
3. Boat Shoes
Style Notes: We can’t discuss summer shoes without preparing for every eventuality (this is British weather after all), and once the hot spells have subsided you’re going to need something a little more substantial—enter the boat shoe. These may be considered divisive, but the truth is, they aren’t too far removed from the classic penny loafer, just with some extra detailing. All of my favourite pairs right now are in buttery soft suede that pairs well with white dresses and voluminous trousers, but did I mention how good bold pops of colour look too?
Shop Boat Shoes:
Nicole’s exact pair [pictured above].
Free People were the first, and the best, to get this trend right on the high street.
Okay, this chocolate suede and blue denim combo is seriously good.
Such a sweet, butterscotch shade.
4. Rope Sandals
Style Notes: Windbreakers, Bermuda shorts, bucket hats and visor sunnies, fashion is experimenting with another Gorpcore summer, and if it looks like it could have stepped straight off a hike and onto a runway, it’s going to score major points. Inspired by trekky-chic (can we call it that?), rope sandals have the same trail-following energy as the laces of a hiking boot, albeit with more elevated execution. Take notes from Alexis [pictured above] and keep your look simple, allowing the sandals to take centre stage.
Shop Rope Sandals:
SUCH a good price.
I just spotted these in the sale, you can thank me later.
That pop of cobalt blue is so fun.
These are selling through quickly in every colourway, so act fast if you want to secure a pair.
These will mould to fit to feet your feet.
5. Ladylike Shoes
Style Notes: As much as minimalist flip-flops feel like they go with everything, they aren’t quite right for every dress code. Sometimes when you need a little extra polish, only the smartest shoes will do, and this summer instead of severe courts and angular heels, you can trust ballet flats, slingbacks, and to get the job done. Take it from the best dressed French girls who are rarely seen in flop-flops away from the beach.
Shop Ladylike Shoes:
A comfortable slingback flat? Sign me up.
Le Monde Beryl are the first place I go for elegant flats of every style.
Another great find in the ARKET sale.
Alohas always manage to make flats feel dressy.
6. Wedges
Style Notes: We’ve had a lot of trends (both bad and good) make a reappearance off of the back of the Y2K revival, and one of the most recent is wedges. Peep toes, flatforms, boho wood—the elevated sole is highly favoured again (pun intended), and they make for more comfortable and longer wear than most skinny heels. Exactly what you need on a hot summers day.
Shop Wedges:
The perfect day to night wedges, in my humble opinion.
Such a conversation starting pair. Just add a white babydoll mini dress and a basket bag.
These look so much more expensive than their price tag.
Suddenly a mesh wedge makes so much sense.
Topshop have occasion dressing sorted.
