7 Major 2026 Sandal Trends I'm Shopping From Nordstrom This Summer

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Women wearing various sandals.
(Image credit: @nlmarilyn; @emilisindlev; @aimeesong)
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Open-toe season is finally upon us, which means it's time to get my summer sandal game into gear and get a much-needed pedicure while I'm at it. I'm particularly excited to refresh my sandal assortment with new styles that feel fashion-forward for the spring and summer.

For the past few weeks, I've been doing a deep dive into the specific styles the fashion set is embracing right now and analyzing the silhouettes that dominated on the spring/summer 2026 runways and, of course, what's taking center stage at all our favorite brands and retailers. Below, I'm sharing seven sandal trends that are worth adding to your wardrobe this season, from elegant '90s thong sandals to nostalgic cool-girl wedges and decorative details. To make life even easier for you, all my picks are from Nordstrom—a perfect one-stop shop.

1. Wedge Sandals

Woman in a blue sweater, capri pants, and wedge sandals.

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Nineties wedge sandals are back for summer 2026, and the nostalgic shoe trend is already dominating among the fashion set. This season's iterations are slender and sleek, particularly flip-flop silhouettes that marry comfort and style.

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2. Elegant Flip-Flops

Woman in a blazer, jeans, and leather flip-flops.

(Image credit: @cocoschiffer)

Refined and elevated leather flip-flops will continue their reign this summer, leaning into the chic '90s minimalist aesthetic. They're incredibly versatile and work just as well with a dress for a beach vacation as they do with your tailored separates for the office.

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3. Heeled Thong Sandals

Woman in a blue top and skirt with thong sandals.

(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

If you want to go one step fancier than leather flip-flops, then heeled flip-flops (along with their cousin T-strap heels) are a standout style in every fashion person's wardrobe, adding an elegant touch to casual summer pieces.

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4. Decorative Details

Woman in a print top, beige skirt and pink heels.

(Image credit: @vivianyrl)

From beads to bows, fringe to floral appliqués, a fresh wave of personality-driven embellished sandals are coming for our wardrobes this summer, adding a statement touch to our summer basics. Have fun!

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5. Jelly Sandals

Woman in cable knit sweater and red shorts.

(Image credit: @aimeesong)

Jelly sandals are back in the limelight for the summer, bringing a playful and nostalgic touch to our wardrobes. Flip-flop styles are proving to be the most popular along with wedges and slides. This season, it's all about experimenting with a variety of trending colors, from bold red to light blue.

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6. Color Blocking

Woman in white outfit and red and black flip-flops.

(Image credit: @annebelrosendahl)

Two-tone and color-blocked sandals are one of the most joyful sandal trends this season. While red-and-black flip-flops are going strong, you can also have fun with rich jewel tones and mixed textures.

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7. Comfy Wide Straps

Woman in a white jacket, black pants, and chunky sandals.

(Image credit: @tylynn)

For everyday wear, thick-strap sandals are a comfortable and chic option to reach for, and we saw the trend on the runways of Miu Miu and Ralph Lauren. They're the perfect option on those summer days when longer walks are involved.

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Judith Jones
Judith Jones
Associate Shopping Director

Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.