I Know You’re a Fashion Person If You’re Wearing One of These Sandal Brands This Summer
I've done the research: every it girl's wardrobe will include one of these sandal brands this summer.
We're still in the middle of spring here in the UK, but I already have a personal goal to get the absolute most out of summer this year. So, of course, this means that I'm already thinking about swapping out my heavier loafers and leather flats for sandals. And with looking chic and put together always at the front of my mind, I've spent the last few months paying close attention to which sandal brands were consistently cropping up on my Instagram feed. And after a plethora of stylish sightings from my favourite influencers who either live abroad or were simply on holiday, I've gathered enough research to confidently bring to you what I think will be the best sandal brands of summer 2026.
@rachelle.rowlings wears Miu Miu sandals.
Now, if you're more of a pared-back dresser like me, never fear, as the best sandal brands are not just about incorporating hard-to-style trends or fleeting fads into your summer capsule wardrobe. No, in true Who What Wear fashion, we've narrowed our attention down to those truly stand-out brands, the kind that perfectly balance on-trend appeal with a timeless element that will stand the test of time in your wardrobe. We take sandals very seriously, ensuring that we've only picked the very best of brands that are sure to remain versatile and easy to style for any occasion. And the best part? There's something to suit every aesthetic and budget this season.
@smythsisters wears A.Emery sandals.
From trusty high-street heroes that everyone will mistake for designer to cult classic luxury buys that are well worth the investment, keep scrolling to discover the very best sandal brands to shop in 2026.
The Best Sandal Brands to Shop in 2026
1. A.Emery
Style Notes: If there's one sandal style you'll spot in the Who What Wear UK office on repeat throughout summer, it's A. Emery's viral Jalen sandal. Known for their ability to be styled up or down with a comfortable fit to match, this shoe style was created with form and function at the top of mind. But don't sleep on the lesser-known styles in this brand; they come just as highly recommended by editors and fashion people alike.
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2. Zara
Style Notes: I always rely on high-street hero Zara to serve up designer-looking pieces on a budget, and their chic sandal collection is no different. Already, the brand has leaned into the defining shoe trends of 2026 far faster than its other high-street counterparts, and in true Zara fashion, they remain both affordable and expensive-looking.
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3. Ancient Greek Sandals
Style Notes: Remember the jelly sandal resurgence we saw last summer? Well, that's in part thanks to Ancient Greek Sandals, a brand known for merging classic craftspersonship with modern-day appeal. The jelly flip-flops reminiscent of my early school days remain my favourite in the collection, but there are a myriad of other styles to choose from if these feel a bit too out there for you.
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4. H&M
Style Notes: Year after year, H&M remains one of my first ports of call for expensive-looking sandals. From sleek, genuine leather styles that are perfect for city strolling to beach-ready slip-ons that I'll be taking on my holidays, their designs never fail to strike the ideal balance of affordability and refinement.
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5. The Row
Style Notes: You can never go wrong with inventing a little more in a sandal that has long-lasting quality and endless versatility, and The Row falls perfectly into this category. From the viral leather flip-flops to the cult classic fisherman sandals, there are so many timeless styles to choose from.
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6. Reformation
Style Notes: If you're looking for a premium brand that focuses on expensive-looking, high-quality footwear that will stand the test of time, Reformation is the store for you. The harmonious balance of anti-trend sandals that manage to incorporate on-trend elements brings me (and my fellow editors) back to Reformation time after time.
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7. YSL
Style Notes: Saint Laurent is no stranger to an excellent handbag, but any fashion person will tell you that its shoe collection is not to be slept on either. The iconic Tribute sandals are high up on my luxury wishlist this summer, but there are also plenty of other sleek styles to choose from.
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8. M&S
Style Notes: If there's one high-street store that I know I can rely on for ultra-comfy sandal styles, it's M&S. The brand's inclination for comfortable yet chic footwear makes it one of my go-to destinations for summer shoe shopping, and this season, they have plenty of on-trend styles that feel fresh and elevated for 2026.
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9. Miu Miu
Style Notes: Anyone who knows me will tell you how much I love Miu Miu. From the soon-to-be iconic Beau bag to the chic '90s-inspired sunglasses, I can't even begin to tell you how much of the brand collection remains firmly on my luxury wishlist. And recently, after spotting the viral rope sandals on several fashion influencers, the brand's summer shoe collection is the newest addition to my list of wants.
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10. Teva
Style Notes: Loved by the likes of Mary-Kate Olsen, Teva's sandal collection is known for being as comfy as they are cool. Very in line with the resurgence of the "dad" shoes that we've been noticing recently, these sandals will add an elevated edge to your jeans, skirts and linen trousers this season.
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11. Khaite
Style Notes: Edgy yet endlessly sophisticated, Khaite's sandal collection is filled to the brim with chic animal-print, supple suede, and '90s-inspired silhouettes that will add interest to even the most basic summer outfits.
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12. Hermès
Style Notes: Hermès' Oran sandals are the cult favourite style that pared-back dressers have been investing in for years. But don't sleep on the rest of the collection. Each sandal is a classic pairing well with everything from bold prints and patterns to timeless minimalist formulas.
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13. Aeyde
Style Notes: Committed to making sustainable footwear, Aeyde creates minimalist-approved sandals that will stand the test of time in your wardrobe. From strappy styles that are perfect to wear with your cotton midi dresses to sleek heels that will dress up your linen trousers, each sandal in the brand's range remains versatile and elegant.
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