J.Law! Hailey! Katie! The "Ugly" Sandals Celebs and French Women Firmly Agree On

Let’s be honest: For most of the mid-2010s, fisherman sandals were seen as the ultimate “dad” shoes, and not in a cool way. The woven leather, semi-closed toe silhouette (colloquially known as the “grillmaster 2000s”) wasn’t exactly at the top of my to-buy list, but shockingly, times have changed. After all, fashion is circular, so when I saw some of my favorite style icons wear the best fisherman sandals ahead of spring and summer, I knew I had to get on board with the trend.
Jennifer Lawrence was spotted pairing her fisherman sandals with a breezy chartreuse button-down and simple linen pants in true Hot Girl Summer fashion. Meanwhile, Hailey Bieber took the edge off her otherwise slick street style look with a chunky-soled pair and denim cutoffs, proving that these sandals can go from errands to espresso martinis without missing a beat.
So, yes, the best fisherman sandals are having a moment. And it’s not just a passing tide. Think high-quality leather, fashion-forward silhouettes, and enough comfort to walk a full mile in (without regretting your life choices). Whether you're team classic brown or feeling bold in metallics and on-trend jelly styles, there’s a pair out there ready to make your warm-weather outfits feel 100% more intentional.
Keep scrolling to shop some of the best fisherman sandals on the market—approved by celebs, reformed sandal skeptics, and people who enjoy looking cool and comfortable.
The Best Fisherman Sandals at a Glance
- The Best Designer Sandals: The Row Fisherman Flat Leather Sandals
- The Best White Sandals: Reformation Freya Fisherman Sandals
- The Best Splurge Sandals: Miu Miu Leather Fisherman Sandals
- The Best Black Sandals: Saint G Neive Fisherman Sandals
- The Best Budget-Friendly Sandals: Comfortview Fisherman Sandals
Best Designer Sandals
The fashion industry continues to be obsessed with The Row.
Size range: 6 to 11
Material: Leather
Colors: Two
Best Platform Sandals
These classic sandals come in seven colors.
Size range: 5.5 to 11
Material: Leather
Colors: Seven
Review: “After reading the reviews, I went up a size and they fit perfectly! They are so comfy, soft, and squishy! I can’t wait until the weather warms up so I can wear these every day! In fact, I’m going to order another pair. Get them before they sell out!” — Anthropologie customer
These are bound to sell out.
Size range: 5 to 11
Material: Leather
Colors: Two
Best Lightweight Sandals
Melissa always comes through with great prices.
Size range: 5 to 10
Material: PVC
Colors: Seven
Review: “They are so cute on, and are so comfy. Wore them all day with not one bit of pain!” — Free People customer
Chunky soles never fail.
Size range: 6 to 11
Material: Leather
Colors: Two
I love this pair.
Size range: 6 to 11
Material: Calf leather
Colors: Two
Best Modern Sandals
Don't these look so chic? You also have to see the tan suede iteration.
Size range: 5 to 11
Material: Leather
Colors: Two
Review: “I love these sandals as I really like the casual yet sophisticated style. They are very versatile as they can be worn day to day with a range of things, from jeans and shorts to dresses. They are very comfortable and lightweight, but more sturdy than a thong or other strappy sandals. I found them TTS.” — Madewell customer
Miu Miu has never failed me in the sandal department.
Size range: 5 to 10
Material: Calfskin leather
Colors: One
Mules are also very on-trend right now.
Size range: 36 to 41
Material: Leather
Colors: Three
Review: “So comfortable! I have medium-wide feet and these fit nicely, a slide that is snug enough to stay in when walking. Very soft leather, very flat sole (which I like but not for those that need arch support). Love the look for spring and fall!” — Jenni Kayne customer
Why not try out the heeled version?
Size range: 5 to 11
Material: Pigskin leather
Colors: One
How can I possibly choose a favorite? These come in three colorways.
Size range: 7.5 to 11, including wide widths
Material: Leather
Colors: Three
These are just so cute.
Size range: 6 to 11
Material: Rubber
Colors: Five
So classic.
Size range: 6 to 12
Material: Leather
Colors: One
These have the luxe look at a quarter of the price.
Size range: 5 to 11
Material: Suede
Colors: Four
Review: “This is what I was looking for. I love that they have a more feminine feel as opposed to the chunkier, heavier versions. The small heel helps to elevate the shoe (literally and figuratively). The suede is icing on the top.”— Everlane customer
The kind of shoes that will last you decades.
Size range: 6 to 12
Material: Leather
Colors: Two
The Spain-based footwear and handbag brand Hereu is known for its classic designs with a modern edge.
Size range: 6 to 11
Material: Leather
Colors: One
Best Chunky Fisherman Sandals
These are begging to be worn with a white dress.
Size range: 5 to 11
Material: Leather
Colors: Three
This pair has to be some of the cheapest pairs on this list. Leave it to Zara to give the people what they want!
Size range: 5 to 11
Material: Polyeutherane
Colors: One
What should you look for in a pair of fisherman sandals?
The most important thing to look for in fisherman sandals is comfort. With an interwoven, interlocking toe-box design, it’s best to prioritize soft leathers and quality materials to make sure that you aren’t giving yourself unnecessary blisters. Don’t count out rubber fisherman sandals, though—some of the best fisherman sandals follow the nostalgic jelly look.
Where can I buy fisherman sandals?
You can buy fisherman sandals at every price-point from nearly every brand—Nordstrom, Zara, and The Row all carry the style.
How do you wear fisherman sandals?
There are endless styling options when it comes to making fisherman sandals feel elevated and cool. Pair the leather shoes with your favorite denim midi shorts and a simple white tee, like Hailey Bieber, or instead follow Katie Holmes and opt for a breezy, linen shirt and lightweight drawstring pants. The options are endless.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
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