There’s something about a new pair of shoes that instantly makes even the simplest outfit feel more put together, and summer is when I wear my favorite pairs on repeat. Now that we’re in the heart of the season, it’s clear which summer shoe trends have actually earned a spot in my rotation. While there are plenty of trendy summer shoe styles out there, only a handful have proven versatile enough to pair with everything from linen pants and denim shorts to dresses.
The best part about this year’s summer shoe trends is that they strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. Whether you’re looking for an everyday sandal, an elevated flat, or an easy shoe that instantly updates your wardrobe, these are the six styles that have dominated my summer outfits all season long, and the ones I’d recommend to friends (and readers).
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How I determined these summer shoe trends
When it came to finding the best summer shoes, I wanted to curate this list to reflect not only the current trends, with every budget in mind, but also those that fit everyday mom life. Combining input from what our team is currently loving and cute new styles we’re obsessing over, we came up with this list of summer shoes that we believe will elevate your summer closet.
Flip-Flops
Thanks to 90s minimalism, and our earlier obsession with Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, flip-flops are officially chic again, though did they ever really go away? Personally, I love them styled with dresses, linen pants, or shorts, taking you from beach days to the street with ease. This summer, consider adding a pop of color in the form of a flip-flop, or go with the new kind of neutral—tortoise.
Elevated Flip-Flop
If you’re looking for a bit more flair, an elevated flip-flop is the way to go. They take the ease of a classic slip-on and make it feel a little more special. Whether it’s a gold buckle, or a kitten heel, or other embellishments, still relaxed and unfussy, but with just enough polish to work beyond the beach. Think casual dinners, vacations, summer city days, or anytime you want comfort with a cooler, more styled edge.
Mesh Flats
Mesh flats have become one of those unexpected staples I reach for far more than I thought I would. I actually own a few pairs ( in several colors), and they’ve quietly worked their way into my regular rotation because they’re just so easy. Most styles are cushioned and surprisingly comfortable, making them feel practical, yet they still have a slightly trend-forward look that instantly updates an outfit. They go with everything—dresses, denim, linen pants and somehow manage to feel both effortless and a little elevated at the same time.
Fisherman Sandals
Fisherman sandals weren’t an immediate yes for me. I’ll admit, something about them at first gave a slight “toddler shoe” feeling. But they’ve really grown on me. Styled the right way, especially with elevated neutrals like tailored linen pants or a crisp summer maxi, they start to feel much more intentional and stylish. The structured shape makes them a great alternative when you want a bit more coverage without committing to a closed-toe shoe. They’re especially good for the office or any day you want something polished, breathable, and just a little different from the usual summer sandal rotation.
Jellies
If there’s one shoe having a real moment right now, it’s definitely jelly sandals. They’ve proven themselves as a summer hit all over again, leaning into that playful, nostalgic energy while still feeling surprisingly current. What makes them so appealing is how easily they slip into your existing wardrobe. They instantly update even the most basic outfits with minimal effort. Suddenly, everything feels a little more fun and summery when paired with jelly flats, whether you’re wearing denim shorts, a simple dress, or linen separates.
Strappy Sandals
If there’s one sandal trend that always finds its way back each summer, it’s strappy sandals. They may ebb and flow in popularity, but they never truly go out of style. Delicate straps instantly add a whimsical, effortless feel to any outfit, making even the simplest linen dress or relaxed trousers look more elevated. Strappy sandals just bring that easy, cool-girl vibe that’s perfect for everything from vacation dinners to weekend brunch.
Soft Loafer & Mules
When sneakers feel too casual, and sandals don’t quite fit the occasion, soft loafers or boat shoes, along with easy slip-on mules, are the perfect in-between. They’re polished without feeling stuffy and instantly make linen trousers or tailored shorts look more intentional. This season, look for buttery suede, woven textures, and soft leather finishes that feel relaxed rather than structured. They’re the kind of shoes you’ll reach for on office days, travel days, and anytime you want to look put together with minimal effort. Plus, you’ll be able to walk them right into early fall, and we love that for our shoe budget.
Why You Can Count On Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Alina Orozco, Commerce Editor
Alina Orozco is the Commerce Editor at The Everymom, where she combines her editorial experience with a love for finding products that make everyday life easier, and more stylish. To The Everymom, Alina brings over 10+ years of editorial publishing and digital storytelling experience as well as snippets of her real life mom style, making fashion trends accessible and fun for every mom. She now lives in a cozy beach town in Southern California with her husband and their two boys, but she’ll always be a Philly girl at heart.
Products included in graphics linked within the article. Feature graphic images credited to Free People, Amazon, and J. Crew.
