Sorry, But These 5 Sandal Trends Are Officially Out for 2026
A roundup of what I’m personally retiring by summer and the chic, modern swaps I’m wearing instead. Think less bulky, less obvious, and a lot more intentional.
I’ve been doing a very slow-paced, thoughtful, wardrobe audit ahead of summer. Not in a dramatic “throw everything away” way but more in a do I really, really need this kind of why. And somehow, sandals have been the category where I’ve felt the shift the most. Styles I used to reach for without thinking now suddenly feel trendy, overdone, or just not as elevated as I want them to.
The common thread? Everything is getting lighter, more intentional, and a little less TikTok-feed driven. It’s less about chasing the newest trend and finding styles that genuinely speak to my personal taste. But also, it’s the styles I’ve worn for years despite trend cycles that are well crafted that stand out the most. I won’t toss those until they’re all beaten down. So if you’re also feeling like your go-to sandals aren’t hitting the same this season, these are the swaps I’m personally making as someone who’s put together a great collection of sandals to choose from.
I’m Trading: Chunky Flip Flops
For: Minimal Thong Sandals
Chunky flip flops had their moment and some people still try to make them a thing but I’m not necessarily sold. Lately, they feel bulky in a way that instantly brings an outfit down. Instead, I’m reaching for minimal thong sandals that feel barely there. They really do complete a look.
I’m Trading: Athletic Slides
For: Utilitarian Styles
Athletic slides are undeniably easy, but they’re meant to be left at home for quick little tasks that involve popping outside. Perfect for walking a dog but never right for an actual time spent out on the town. They’re incredibly intentional.
I’m Trading: PVC (clear) Styles
For: A Special Detail
Clear PVC sandals used to feel like an easy way to make an outfit look modern, but now for me, they just feel a bit overly glam. I found it painful to do so but I just said goodbye to my favorite pair. I don’t think their time in my life is coming back soon. What’s replacing them are sandals with thoughtful, unexpected details—like sculptural hardware, 3D florals, or subtle embellishments. It’s still eye-catching, just in a way that feels more elevated and less try-hard.
I’m Trading: Cork Sole
For: Texture
Cork soles will always have a place, but right now they’re feeling a little too casual for where my style is heading. They can make even a good outfit lean slightly “weekend errand” when that’s not the goal. Instead, I’m gravitating toward textured materials—raffia, woven leather, anything with dimension.
I’m Trading: Logo Styles
For: Pops of Color
Logo sandals had a moment, especially when I first started working in fashion, but the overt branding is starting to feel a bit dated—especially when everything else is moving toward wearing things that look sneakily expensive. What feels fresher is color. A rich red, a soft butter yellow, even a deep chocolate—these shades do more for an outfit than a logo ever could, making such a subtle statement.
