Like It or Not, Fashion Insiders Think These 5 Sandal Colours Are Officially "Dated" in 2026
Fashion people have spoken: here are the five sandal colour trends that feel "dated" for summer 2026. Plus, the five they'll be wearing instead.
Between the unexpected rainfall and the up-and-down temperatures, there hasn't been much chance to get our sandals out here in London. Still, I’m determined to make the most of toes-out season whenever the unpredictable UK weather allows. So I’ve started thinking about the sandals I’ll add to my summer capsule wardrobe. My first port of call for inspiration? My fellow editors, of course. After much discussion in the office, one thing became clear: certain sandal colours just aren't cutting it in 2026.
And as a minimalist who uses colour very intentionally, I prefer my shoes to do the heavy lifting in elevating my pared-back outfits, and, with this, I’ve taken clear notes on which sandal shades feel outdated to my fellow Who What Wear UK editors. And for summer 2026 specifically, fashion insiders are focusing on swapping out fleeting colour trends for polished, sophisticated hues that make for easy styling and that are sure to stand the test of time in their wardrobes.
So if you're also looking for the answer to which sandal colours are worth investing in for summer 2026, then you’re in luck, as our editors with the inside scoop have done the legwork for you. Keep scrolling to discover the five dated sandal colour trends fashion people are passing on in 2026, plus the five they'll be wearing instead.
Fashion Insiders Think These 5 Sandal Colours Are "Dated" in 2026
1. Wearing: Beige Sandals
Pausing: White Sandals
"Aside from the occasional poolside flip-flop, I've never been one to go for white sandals. Not only do they stain extremely easily, but this stark hue often looks out of place when paired with my darker palette. Instead, I’ll be opting for beige tones that feel warmer and complement the chocolate brown and black clothing I wear throughout the season." - Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor
Shop Beige Sandals:
Slip on and go.
'90s chic.
These are at the top of my luxury wishlist at the moment.
For the stiletto-obsessed.
I almost mistook these for designer.
2. Wearing: Red Sandals
Pausing: Burgundy Sandals
"Burgundy sandals have dominated my wardrobes for the last few years, and whilst I’ll never deny their versatility and ability to look extremely expensive, this year I'm looking for something slightly bolder to offset my neutral outfits. And for summer 2026 specfically, stylish dressers are all about bright cherry red tones, from flip-flops to heeled sandals.” - Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolakis, Junior Fashion Editor
Shop Red Sandals:
An easy way to add a pop of colour to an otherwise neutral outfit.
Simple but so very effective.
The perfect event heel.
These are sure to earn you many compliments.
A. Emery's viral sandals now come in this chic red suede iteration.
3. Wearing: Dark Brown Sandals
Pausing: Black Sandals
"No one can ever argue that black sandals are out—I mean, it doesn’t get more classic! However, dark brown sandals feel much less harsh with the warmer tones I opt for in summer and still have the same timeless appeal. Not to mention that this sleek colour looks expensive at every single price point, from high street to high end." - Brittany Davy, Junior Writer
Shop Dark Brown Sandals:
An easy way to add some texture to your outfits.
Minimalists will love these.
The styling possibilities are endless.
The suede finish makes these look expensive.
So chic.
4. Wearing: Clear Sandals
Pausing: Colourful Sandals
“I’m well aware that clear is not technically a colour, but I’m just so tired of constantly struggling to match my outfits to my different coloured sandals. Therefore, for summer 2026, I’ll be opting for a clear, PVC finish that will not only ensure that my shoes go with everything I wear but also fit right into the jelly shoe hype that’s going on right now. Whether it be a flip-flop, fisherman, or slide, this sandal style is the perfect balance between trendy and timeless.” - Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer
Shop Clear Sandals:
The jelly sandal that started it all.
A modern take on the classic fisherman shoe.
Get your pedicure booked in asap.
Simple, stylish and so easy to style.
These will pair well with any and every colour or pattern.
5. Wearing: Light Brown Sandals
Pausing: Khaki Sandals
"I love the idea of earthy tones in summer, and this would usually include shades like khaki. However, I often find that high-street sandals in this tone can look a little cheap, not to mention they can be hard to style with the other colours in my wardrobe. So, for 2026, I'll be opting for luxe-looking light brown hues that not only pair well with all of my neutrals, but look expensive no matter the price point I decide to invest in.” - Natalie Munro, News Writer
Shop Light Brown Sandals:
This hue will pair beautifully with dark wash denim.
Perfect for the beach and the city.
Everyone will think these are a designer find.
These have such a retro feel to them.
French girl-approved.
