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Looking for a summer shoe that isn’t a sandal? We’ve found 9 perfect pairs to shop now
2 years ago
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2 min read
Espadrilles, Mary Janes, slingbacks and more – allow us to introduce you to some other warm-weather options.
While the idea of summer dressing may at first sound easy – breezy dresses, denim shorts and linen trousers are all classic options – but when it comes to footwear, things can get a bit fiddly. Sandals are dubbed the summer shoe; flip-flops bring a laidback look; Birkenstocks offer a cool, comfortable vibe; and wrap-around styles are just a touch more secure, with no sweaty slippage in sight.
For some of us, though, wearing a sandal requires showing off more of our feet than we’re comfortable with. For others, even the softest foam-soled sandals aren’t quite comfy enough, and they certainly don’t offer the same foot support as a closed-toe shoe. Some office dress codes even have an outright ban on sandals in the employee handbook. But before you resign yourself to a summer of trainers or boots, allow us to introduce you to some other warm-weather-friendly footwear finds.
Just keep scrolling to see Stylist’s summer-ready shoe selects.
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Birkenstock Boston suede slippers
Birkenstocks have amassed a huge fan base that includes many fashion experts. The Boston clogs cover the whole of the foot and wick away sweat with a sturdy cork sole.
Shop Birkenstock Boston suede slippers at Net-A-Porter, £125
M&S buckle flat pointed slingback shoes
Slingbacks are a great option to wear to work. Formal in fit but with space to breathe, they’re a less sweaty version of a failsafe pump.
Castañer Carina 80 canvas wedge espadrilles
Loved by royals including Kate Middleton, Castañer has carved out a mid-luxury-level space when it comes to heeled summer footwear.
Shop Castañer Carina 80 canvas wedge espadrilles at Net-A-Porter, £100
Next ankle strap Huarache sandals
Technically, these are sandals. But as they almost completely cover the front of the foot and heel, we think they work as a great alternative.
Allsaints eclipse flatform sliders
Are sliders technically a sandal? Perhaps. But this Allsaints option covers a lot of the foot and comes in a summer-ready shade.
FP Collection surfside Mary Jane espadrilles
Combining two of our favourite summer shoe styles – Mary Janes and espadrilles – these Free People picks are sweet, simple yet incredibly stylish.
Shop FP Collection surfside Mary Jane espadrilles at Free People, £140
Penelope Chilvers low Valenciana Dali espadrille
If bright, bold colours are what you’re after, then this Penelope Chilvers pair could be the perfect pick.
Shop low Valenciana Dali espadrille at Penelope Chilvers, £129
Toms Santiago washed canvas
Toms espadrilles are not only incredibly comfortable, but they also come in almost any colour you could wish for.
Whistles Emerson block heel sandal
For more formal occasions, this kitten-heel shoe will work wonders. Again, it is technically classed as a sandal, but with great toe coverage and a sleek style, it’s a far cry from your everyday flip-flop.
Images: courtesy of brands
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