Summer Shoe Trends We’re Loving
What would summer be without fun shoes? If you spend most of the winter in boots designed to insulate your feet (like we do in Wisconsin), a new pair of summer shoes is the best! Let’s look at the summer shoe trends we’re loving this season.
Slides
For everyday ease, slides are one of the comfiest choices. Whether you are puttering around the house, heading to the beach, or going out to a casual lunch, slides will get you there in style and comfort.
Black or white are great choices for slides because they’ll go with almost everything. When choosing slides, think about how much walking you are likely to do and whether they will give you the support you need. Some slides are built for all-day wear, and others are “cute by the pool with your swimsuit or beach cover-up only” kind of footwear. If you are driving out and about, make sure that your feet are secure in your slides or keep a separate pair of driving shoes handy to stay safe.
Walking Sandals
Birkenstocks and other great walking sandals stand the test of time because they are cute, comfy, and oh so practical. If you have a pair near your mudroom or entryway in the summer, chances are you are slipping them on constantly as you head out the door. If you plan to walk far, make sure to break them in first. The footbed should provide good support, and your foot shouldn’t slip around in them. For added stability, consider a walking sandal with an ankle strap.
Neutral colors, like black, tan, and white, are always nice in walking sandals, but you may also want to consider playing with different textures. You can find fun options like snakeskin or leopard print or metallic touches that change up the classic look of this sandal. If you have a favorite pop color, walking sandals can be a fun way to bring that into your summer wardrobe for casual outfits, too.
Mules (Low, High, and In Between)
Mules are all the rage right now. Flat mules are fabulous because they are comfy while looking pulled together (and even dressy, depending upon the color, material, and embellishments). Flat mules can work for everything from a casual lunch out to a business meeting (unless you have conservative definitions of “business casual”) to an evening out with dress pants and a women’s linen shirt. A completely flat mule is likely to be comfy but not provide much arch support, so plan accordingly if you anticipate a lot of walking.
Heeled mules (especially those with block heels) are a great trend this summer, too. Block heels give you a wider base on which to walk (no teetering like with stilettos), which can make wearing them throughout the day or into the evening a stylish and practical idea.
Sneakers
Sneakers, oh, how we love you! From basic bright white to all the fun styles and colors that are out now, make sure to have a pair of cute and comfy sneakers in your summer wardrobe. If you only buy one pair of sneakers, make them a classic white pair. These days, you can wear white sneakers with not only jeans, chinos, or shorts, but casual skirts and dresses, too. If you are tempted to wear your sneakers sans socks, keep in mind that they will last longer (and be more comfortable) if you pair them with no-show socks. Cotton is always a comfy option for summer socks.
Strappy Sandals (Low, High, and In Between)
Strappy sandals are one of those summer footwear options that cycle back year after year in slightly different iterations. They are fun and pretty and so lightweight looking compared to winter footwear! A pair of flat strappy sandals can look great with everything from women’s jeans to shirt dresses.
Platform Heels
Hear us out on this one. Platform heels have been spotted on the red carpet and will no doubt be at a mall near you before too long (and be sporting more economical names than Valentino or Versace). If you like high heels, platform heels can give you the feeling of wearing a lower heel because the platform itself is part of the shoe height. If you like the idea of platform heels, opt for a pair with an ankle strap for added stability. Platform wedges are also popular (and a bit easier to walk in).
When it comes to fashion trends, always pick and choose what feels right for you. If a trend makes you smile, try it out. If you are afraid that you will break your ankle if you try a given trend, skip that one and find something else that is both beautiful and comfy.
Have fun looking and feeling great in your summer shoes!