We all love a good pair of sandals this time of year, but let's not forget about the beauty of summer flats. It's natural to associate flat shoes with spring and fall, but brands are having more and more fun with their flat-shoe designs as of late, and I, for one, have taken notice. Among this year's offerings, I've spotted plenty of cool crochet, beaded, and mesh options along with vibrant colors and fresh takes on classic styles such as mules and espadrilles.

Brands as varied as Zara, Reformation, Loewe, and Madewell are fully embracing the summer flats renaissance, and shoppers can't get enough. The words "sold out" are ones I came across often while choosing the shoes below. So before that happens with my carefully selected edit, scroll on to add your favorites to your cart. In case you were wondering, I'm eyeing the first four pairs, in particular, but if I'm being completely honest, I'd take every last one of these 27 options.

It's no secret that I have a penchant for chic shoes, so when a new trend is brewing, I take note. Over the past few months, I've spotted fashion people on my social feeds opting for blue ballet flats over classic black and trendy red options. Honestly, I've never been one to reach for a blue shoe style, but something about it in ballet-flats form feels so fresh and on point for summer 2026. With that in mind, I set out to find my favorite pairs along with chic outfit inspiration on how to pull them off.

After a quick scroll through my Instagram and TikTok feeds, I came across four cool outfit ideas with blue ballet flats from stylish women—including Katie Holmes—in NYC, London, and Copenhagen. Each gives It-girl vibes and is super easy to re-create with pieces like pretty dresses, cool shorts, relaxed pants, and more. Keep scrolling to check out the inspiring looks, plus more standout blue ballet flats that are perfect for 2026.

Cool Outfit Ideas With Blue Ballet Flats for 2026

Outfit #1

Outfit #2

Outfit #3

Outfit #4

Shop More Standout Blue Ballet Flats

As someone who typically plans their outfits around shoes, it's safe to say that I'm a bit shoe obsessed. One place I love to browse and shop footwear weekly is Nordstrom, thanks to its vast selection of standout options. In fact, after my most recent perusal of the site, I can confidently say that Nordstrom currently has some of the chicest shoe trends for summer 2026. My virtual cart ended up overflowing with my top picks of the season.

Below, I share five of the standout shoe trends at Nordstrom as well as my recommendations for each. While it was hard to narrow down, there is a great range of classic and of-the-moment styles. Think everything from flip-flops to Adidas sneakers to kitten heels and even cool hybrids of each style. Keep scrolling to check out each shoe trend that have "fashion person" written all over them.

Chic Summer 2026 Shoe Trends at Nordstrom

Flip-Flops

Adidas Sneakers

Ballet Flats

Kitten Heels

Jelly Shoes

Spotted in New York this week, Sarah Pidgeon stepped out in the accessory trend that made her Khaite bootcut jeans look their chicest—and no, I'm not talking about her rumoured beau, Joe Alwyn, who was photographed strolling alongside the actor. While the internet is understandably focused elsewhere, my attention was on the real star of the outfit: her black ballet flats.

In a move that flies in the face of almost every bootcut jeans styling rule I've ever subscribed to, Pidgeon skipped the usual leg-lengthening heels and elongating pointed-toe shoes in favour of a simple ballet flat. With both feet planted firmly on the ground—whatever may or may not be happening in the clouds above—the actor revived a jeans-and-shoe pairing I haven't thought about in years.

Bootcut jeans and ballet flats were once a staple combination throughout the 2000s and early 2010s, before sleeker styling choices edged them out. Now, however, Sarah's endorsement has me wondering whether the nostalgic pairing might be due a return. Styled with a simple white tank top, the look felt effortless and unfussy in the coolest way.

Perhaps not the accessory generating the most headlines this week, but certainly the one that's caught my attention. Read on to shop the black ballet flats and bootcut jeans I'm recommending below.

Shop Low-Rise Bootcut Jeans and Ballet Flats:

When it comes to what makes French style so universally beloved and, well, frankly iconic, few items have achieved the same cult status as Repetto ballet flats. They're beloved by Parisian women for decades, and the classic flats were first conceived of as dance shoes before they became immortalized when Brigitte Bardot wore the designs in her 1956 film And God Created Woman.

Now, of course, they're hallmarks of Parisian street style and have garnered an international fanbase of loyal shoppers who collect them in multiple colors. It's no longer just in Paris, though. Repetto's have been steadily gaining momentum stateside with celebrities in NYC and L.A. stepping out in the iconic ballet flats nonstop and proving that the timeless shoe is just as relevant in 2026 as it was when it first became a French-girl favorite.

From Kaia Gerber, who has worn a pair from her collaboration with the brand with jeans, skirts, and dresses nearly every day this month, to Phoebe Dynevor and Maude Apatow, who favor the slightly heeled Camille pair, It girls all seem to agree on the beloved French flats right now. Ahead, see how the style set is wearing the flats and shop the pairs worth adding to your rotation.

How Celebs Wear Repetto Flats

On Kaia Gerber: Cou Cou Intimates Rina top; Repetto Kaia Ballet Flats ($440)

On Phoebe Dynevor: Repetto Kaia Ballet Flats ($440); Chimi Dele Sunglasses ($220)

On Vittoria Ceretti: Marc Jacobs dress; Repetto Lilouh Almond-Toe Ballerina Flats ($430); The Attico bag; Chimi 10 Core Sunglasses ($180)

On Maude Apatow: Repetto Camille Ballet Flats ($470); Miu Miu Utilitaire Bag ($3800)

Shop Repetto Camille Ballet Flats

Shop Similar Styles

You'd be surprised to know that someone as stylish as Jodie Turner-Smith was spotted wearing a trend that might be deemed "dated," but the L.A. style star was recently seen sporting a nostalgic style that was not on my summer 2026 bingo card. While out and about at a local farmers market, Turner-Smith lugged her groceries while wearing a gray tank top with none other than a pair of drawstring jeans. Naturally, Smith made them look anything but dated and styled them in a way that felt so current.

The rest of her look was kept quite low-key and felt very L.A. She styled her drawstring jeans with a pair of controversial "weird" Vibram FiveFingers flats and further accessorized with minimal black sunglasses and her phone hanging from her shoulder like a mini bag. Drawstring pants are certainly having a major moment this summer, but drawstring jeans feel fresh. Thanks to Turner-Smith, I predict we were just introduced to the next It-girl trend of the season.

If you're inspired to try out drawstring jeans this summer, keep scrolling to re-create Turner-Smith's outfit and shop some of our favorite styles.

Spotted on Jodie Turner-Smith

On Jodie Turner-Smith: Vibram V-Soul FiveFingers shoes

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Shop More Drawstring Jeans

Los Angeles is known for its relaxed, sunshiny approach to style. It's often made up of simple wardrobe staples, and there's an ease to it. As I spent the month of May visiting, I found myself keeping an eye out for the trends people were actually wearing.

The first thing I noticed felt less like a trend and more in the realm of anti-trends: lots and lots of jeans. But I quickly realized the ones I kept clocking each had a bit of a je ne sais quoi to them, if you will. The perfect reference point for what I mean by that is Still Here's Cool Wide-Leg Jeans that are relaxed and lived-in.

While we were at the Silver Lake Farmers Market one Saturday, my partner pointed out how many people were wearing basketball shorts. Further proving his observation, one of my best friends who lives in L.A. met up with us wearing a black pair with mid-calf boots.

I also went to a Charlie Beads pop-up at the DLR store, where silver ballet flats caught my attention. After that, I started noticing more and more non-black ballet flats, from baby pink to butter yellow.

I saw a fair share of oversize button-down shirts, and of course, the knee-length-skirt trend I've been seeing nonstop in New York City is just as popular in L.A. too. Ahead, shop the summer 2026 trends.

Knee-Length Skirts

Relaxed Jeans

Non-Black Ballet Flats

Oversize Button-Down Shirts

Loose Shorts

If you're looking for an easy and affordable way to inject your summer 2026 closet with a mix of chic and cool vibes, look no further than the current Gap and J.Crew sales. Both are filled with standout picks that will make you look like a fashion person. At J.Crew, from now until June 1, you can get up to 50% off selected pieces, plus an extra 20% off your purchase of $200 or more with the code ADDTOCART. At Gap, take 20% to 50% off a vacation-ready selection until June 2.

Ahead, I narrowed down a set of Gap and J.Crew sale picks that are guaranteed to get you compliments all summer long. Included are stylish dresses, linen pieces, cool pants, classic T-shirts, sleek sandals, and more elevated basics. While the pieces all feel very much on-trend, they all surprisingly lean timeless, which is a major plus since you can wear them from many more years to come.

Shop Chic Gap and J.Crew Summer Sale Picks

Gap

J.Crew

If you haven’t yet pulled your mesh ballet flats out from storage, consider this your sign to do so. Reviving the shoe trend I assumed had faded with last summer’s sun, Lily Collins stepped out this week, confirming that mesh ballet flats are still just as relevant for the season ahead.

Styling a light beige pair for a day out in Mykonos, Lily paired last year’s most divisive shoe trend with one of fashion’s most timeless dress styles. Wearing HVN's Marina Button Down Dress (£299), her look balanced classic femininity with a more modern energy, thanks to her thoughtful choice of shoes.

Whilst it might feel like '90s-inspired flip-flops are the only shoes that matter right now, I’m convinced these elegant mesh flats are the real key to elevated summer styling. Breathable and lightweight—as any good summer shoe should be—but far more interesting than the minimalist sandals dominating the season, they feel like the perfect option for anyone looking to add a little personality to their warm-weather wardrobe.

Leaning on classic accessories, Lily finished her outfit with a woven wicker hat, oversized black sunglasses and a simple blue tote.

As we sit on the precipice of summer, I’m newly convinced this trend is about to return in full force. If you’re convinced too, keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best mesh ballet flats below.

Shop Mesh Flats:

As we move further away from the start of the ballet-flats trend several years ago, I see fewer and fewer examples of people wearing basic ballet flats with the little bows. In 2026, there are more ballet-flats variations than ever, but some are so subtle you may not even realize you're wearing a trend. One of those subtle yet incredibly chic variations was just spotted on flat-shoe connoisseur Lily Collins.

Collins, who is currently filming season six of Emily in Paris in Mykonos, was just spotted heading to lunch via boat with her castmates. Instead of wearing basic ballet flats with her black capri pants, Collins chose two-tone ballet flats, where the contrasting element is often in the form of a strap or trim. Specifically, she wore a pair by Marguax (a Who What Wear editor favorite) in cream with a thin black elastic strap. The two-tone flats added a modern, elegant touch to her capri-pant outfit that one-tone flats can't match.

Now that you know two-tone ballet flats are a trend, you're probably going to start noticing them everywhere—maybe even on your feet. Keep scrolling to find your ideal pair.

As Seen on Lily Collins

On Lily Collins: Auter Drawstring Leather Jacket ($3250); Margaux The Phoebe Flats ($375); Givenchy bag

Shop Her Shoes

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Now that we've passed Memorial Day, it’s unofficially summer. Layers are being shed, and more colors are being added to outfits. It’s the season to explore your personal style, and what better way to do that than with a pair of shoes? From influencers to celebrities, fashion people have been embracing flats since the weather started warming up, but instead of the usual "safe" black pair, they're opting for a shoe color that’s much riskier and more eye-catching. It's one that Emma Roberts just wore while out in NYC heading to a Longchamp event in collaboration with designer Jeremy Scott.

For the occasion, Roberts wore a Longchamp look consisting of a collared royal blue cardigan and a stamp-printed canvas skirt, and instead of black flats, she chose metallic silver Mary Janes. A yellow leather handbag completed her vibrant outfit. Had she worn a pair of black flats, her look just wouldn’t have popped as much. Silver sneakers had a major moment last summer and into this year, but silver flats bring a chic, cool girl vibe to your outfits, and Roberts' look sets the standard.

Keep scrolling to see how silver flats made Roberts' outfit even cooler, and shop similar pairs to wear with your own colorful summer outfits.

How Emma Roberts Wears Hers

On Emma Roberts: Longchamp Printed Canvas Skirt ($465); Le Foulonne ballet flats, and Le Smart XS bucket bag

Get the Look

Shop More Silver Flats

It's that time of year. Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale is in full force. You can expect deep discounts on the best items across Nordstrom's whole catalog through June 1. I did a deep dive of Nordstrom's discounted shoe finds that'd be perfect for the upcoming months and found a slew of on-trend shoes, including sandals, sneakers, and various flats. I've done what I do best and curated a modest selection of some of my Nordstrom Half-Yearly shoe finds just for you.

Are you looking for a little summer shoe refresh? Perhaps a pair of everyday sandals or cool low-profile sneakers. I've handpicked a range of shoe styles that are perfect additions to any stylish person's wardrobe. Some standout finds include Adidas Handball Spezials, Sam Edelman Cora Slingback Kitten Heel Sandals, and Mansur Gavriel Ballerina Flat.

The Best Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale Sandal Deals

The Best Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale Sneaker Deals

The Best Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale Flats Deals

Surprise! The Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale has launched, and it's too good to miss. I spent a couple of hours scouring the sale with my discerning eye and ended up overflowing my browser with endless tabs of great finds. Not surprising, really, as Nordstrom is known for its exceptionally curated selection each season. Now until June 1, you can shop the highly anticipated sale. Note that things sell out quickly and other pieces are added throughout the sale, so it's best to keep tabs on everything and scoop up your favorites while they are still in stock.

Below, I've compiled a tight list of discounted gems worth your attention right now. Think everything from tops, jeans, sneakers, sandals, and dresses to pants, from brands like Madewell, Mango, and Adidas. I proudly saved around $200 by shopping these great deals and hope you save the same or more. Keep scrolling to check out and shop the chicest fashion finds from the stellar Nordstrom sale.

Shop Chic Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale Picks

It’s an unfortunate truth that not every flat shoe works with a skirt. Whilst trainers can feel a little clunky against the feminine silhouette and simple slides often fall flat, I’ve found that skirts look their chicest when paired with an elegant ballet flat.

Offering all the polish of a heel with the comfort of staying firmly grounded, ballet flats are the first shoe trend I think of whenever warm-weather dressing rolls around.

Putting the timeless style to the test, Daisy Edgar-Jones demonstrated just how elegant the pairing can be. Spotted in Cannes, the actor styled sleek black ballerina flats with a flowing skirt, creating one of the chicest daytime looks I’ve seen in some time.

Wearing a coordinating Jil Sander skirt alongside a geometric bra and the Linea bag—all from the brand’s Autumn/Winter 2026 collection—Daisy's look was pretty, feminine and genuinely comfortable.

Shop my edit of the best Daisy-inspired ballet flats below.

Shop Ballet Flats:

Fun fact about the biggest flat-shoe trend of 2026: It has the distinction of being highly specific because it's also in a particular color. The trend is white leather oxford flats, and it's quickly becoming a celebrity favorite. The internet certainly took notice when Charlize Theron wore white oxford flats in NYC a few weeks ago, and the latest example is Gracie Abrams, who shared a post that prominently featured the shoe trend on her Instagram account over the weekend.

If you're wondering what to wear with white oxford flats, the good news is that they look chic with many things, but if you want to look especially cool at this very moment, I strongly advise taking a cue from Abrams and pairing them with red jeans or pants. There's something about the combination of red and white that's just so fresh, unexpected, and eye-catching. Not only that, but it's also a combination that's appropriate year-round, whether summer or winter.

With that, keep scrolling to see Abrams's red-jeans-and-white-oxford-flats outfit and shop the cool combination for yourself.

The Jeans Color and Flats Trend on Gracie Abrams

Shop Red Jeans and Pants

Shop White Oxford Flats

Black ballet flats will always have a place, but this summer, the energy has shifted, and it's all about color. The chicest dressers aren't defaulting to safe neutrals anymore. Instead, they're reaching for ballet flats in shades that feel playful, polished, and just unexpected enough to make even the simplest outfit look intentional. It's less about making a loud statement and more about that subtle pop that elevates everything you're wearing.

What makes colorful ballet flats feel so right now is how effortlessly they slot into everyday summer outfits. Think of them as the easiest way to break up an all-white look, add dimension to classic denim, and soften tailored pieces. Bright-red or butter-yellow flats paired with a minimalist outfit suddenly feel styled, not thrown on. Even the most low-key combinations—tank tops, breezy skirts, relaxed trousers—get an upgrade when grounded with a color that draws the eye without overpowering the look.

The appeal also comes down to versatility. From soft pastels to rich, saturated tones, there's a version for every aesthetic, whether you lean classic or a little more directional. Powder blue reads polished, cherry red feels timeless with a twist, and metallic finishes double as a neutral while still standing out. It's a simple swap that completely reframes your summer wardrobe—proof that, sometimes, the smallest change makes the biggest impact.

Best Non-Black Ballet-Flats Outfits of 2026

Get the look: Button-down shirt + Yellow jeans + Light-blue ballet flats

Get the look: Leather jacket + White jeans + Scarf belt + Hot-pink ballet flats

Get the look: Plaid button-down shirt + Jeans + Pink ballet flats

Get the look: Button-down dress + Belt + Turquoise ballet flats

Get the look: Layering T-shirt + Capri sweatpants + Lime-green ballet flats

Get the look: White button-down shirt + Jeans + Red ballet flats

Get the look: Suede jacket + Pastel top + Silk pants + Light-blue ballet flats

Get the look: Bright-pink jacket + Polka-dot tank + Jeans + Pink ballet flats

Get the look: Printed oversize jacket + Crop top + White shorts + Metallic ballet flats

Get the look: Short-sleeve sweater + White trousers + Pastel ballet flats

Get the look: White top + Loose trousers + Red ballet flats + Headband

If you're someone who exclusively wears very casual outfits that typically consist of leggings or other stretchy or loose pants to the airport, the outfit I'm about to put on your radar may be a tough sell, but hear me out. The outfit in question was worn by the always polished and stylish Daisy Edgar-Jones, who was spotted arriving at the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport for the Cannes Film Festival a few days ago. If looking rich at the airport (in addition to being comfortable) is your goal for trips to the airport this summer, you're going to want to see her outfit.

Edgar-Jones opted for a travel look that was a very far cry from the typical leggings, sweatshirt, and sneakers outfits one often encounters at the airport. Instead, she wore a white midi dress with an oatmeal-colored sweater draped over her shoulders, paired with minimalist black ballet flats. The flattering dress was a bit fitted at the bodice, but with a flared midi skirt that allowed for ease of movement. The draped sweater gave the entire look an elegantly preppy feel (and would certainly come in handy on chilly airplanes), and the soft leather flats looked supremely walkable.

All in all, if you want to dress up a bit for a flight without sacrificing comfort, do as Edgar-Jones did and wear a flared midi dress with a draped sweater and soft ballet flats. Keep scrolling to see how it's done and shop the rich-looking airport outfit.

Daisy Edgar-Jones at the Airport

On Daisy Edgar-Jones: Mango Ruched A-Line Midi Dress ($150); Miu Miu Solitaire Shiny Leather Bag ($4200)

Get the Look

Shop More Airport-Approved Dresses

I know I'm not alone in the fact that when it comes to planning my outfits, I always start with the shoes regardless of the season. Since I can remember, I've been a shoe person who gets downright giddy when I score a new pair that I love. Thankfully, the shoe gods have blessed us with some gorgeous shoe trends in time for summer—styles so good that you won't be able to stop staring at your feet when you're wearing them (neither will your friends or chic passersby).

I had a delightful time perusing the shoe departments of some of my favorite retailers like Nordstrom and Zara to find all the standouts for summer. Think woven shoes, polished kitten heels, jelly flats, of-the-moment Adidas sneakers, and more. Scroll on to shop five summer shoe trends that are not to be missed right now and pair them with everything from jeans to your favorite dresses.

Flip-Flops

Kitten-Heel Sandals

Adidas Sneakers

Jelly Flats and Sandals

Woven Flats and Sandals

From Oslo to Paris, shoe racks are leaning toward open toes and high heels. That can only mean one thing—summer's just around the corner. As a shopping editor, I share a couple similarities with the style set. One: My shoe closet is always in flux—good thing I have an eye for spotting trends. (Psst, wedge sandals and two-tone thongs are top styles this season.) Two: Looking wealthy is top of mind. So when a rich-looking shoe trend finds its way to my feed, I pay close attention. Think '90s minimalist heels and Y2K maximalist prints.

It just so happens that Nordstrom's new-in section is rife with luxe-like styles. It's a safe bet that when scrolling this editor-loved retailer, you'll find something chic and under $250. Ahead, discover the five rich-looking Nordstrom shoe trends fashion people are wearing this summer. You'll find texturally intriguing flats, nostalgic picks, and so much more.

6 Rich-Looking Nordstrom Shoe Trends for Summer 2026

Wedge Sandals

Let's talk about the wedge sandal. Post-Y2K, the wedge flip-flop lost its momentum. Lately, Gen Zers have revived the sandal in part due to its nostalgic appeal—that and Y2K athletic, kitten heels, and low-rise jeans.

'90s Block Heels

Love Story fans and C.O. Bigelow shoppers will love this '90s CBK-esque shoe trend: the block heel. It's minimalist, sexy, and chic. What more could you ask from this rich-looking trend?

Animal-Print Everything

From totes and kitten heels to midi skirts and jackets, the animal-print trend hasn't been shy about its popularity. There is no need. It's a Y2K maximalist's dream. No matter your summer shoe preference, as long as it's cheetah, leopard, zebra, or tiger, you'll fit right in.

Two-Tone Thongs

Two-tone flip-flops feature a contrasting sole and strap. It is your usual flip-flop silhouette (maybe a kitten heel if you're feeling chic), so the styling rules don't change much from those for a regular thong. Only this time around, color blocking is key. Take a page out of the Scandi style book and pair the two-tone thongs with elevated basics and solid colors.

Crochet Flats

Crochet flats are the older sister of the woven flat trend—more sophisticated, more artisanal. Embrace the handmade look in an off-white colorway. Fashion people are wearing them with similarly intriguing textiles, such as pleated dresses and lace-trimmed slips.

If you've been a longtime Alexa Chung fan, you may remember a pair of shoes she wore constantly during what some refer to as the “indie-twee era”: Carel’s Kina. All these years later, Olivia Rodrigo was recently been seen wearing a pair too.

Interested in learning more about the brand’s history, I started reading up on it. Carel began in 1947, when Georges and Rosa Carel opened their first women’s shoe boutique in Paris. Their goal was to create shoes that were both comfortable and elegant, favoring an under-two-inch “trotter” heel, which feels incredibly me.

In 1974, the Marquis was released—a flat-heeled ballerina shoe decorated with a bow, reminiscent of an opera slipper. As the line continued to grow, it began gaining celebrity fans, including actress Isabelle Huppert. Then, in 2010, the iconic triple-strap, 1.6-inch-heel Kina finally came into play. Today, the enduring silhouette is still a best seller and has continued to diversify its designs.

I ended up trying the Carlotta, and as soon as I put them on, I literally said these exact words out loud to my partner: “These are beautiful, gorgeous, and perfect.” They truly feel like the ideal shoe. I was genuinely surprised by how impeccably soft and comfortable the leather was, which the label describes as feeling like “a second skin.” And the shape feels especially feminine and chic.

Other pairs that caught my attention include two especially showstopping, vacation-y new arrivals: the Acai heels and Piscine sandals, both adorned with tropical flower appliqués—a popular trend for spring/summer 2026. More in line with my personal style are the Emilie and Princesse, along with my absolute dream fall boot, the Starter boots.

Below, shop the cult-favorite French shoes directly on its website as well as retailers Farfetch and Bergdorf Goodman.

Shop on Carel

Shop on Farfetch

Shop on Bergdorf Goodman

This might sound extreme, but I was literally still wearing my fall coats up until the end of April in New York City thanks to its notoriously finicky weather. Granted, I do run cold, but temperatures were still in the 40s and 50s. Now that it's finally heating up here, I'm beyond thrilled to start thinking about warm-weather clothes again.

I tend to wear only skirts and dresses, so naturally, my wish list is filled with them this season. I'm especially eyeing 100% cotton pieces and airy slip dresses from brands like Araks, Brooke Callahan, Guizio, Matteau, Rat Boi, Rue Sophie, St. Agni, With Jéan, and more. Beyond that, I can never have enough tank tops, so I'll also be updating my basics with brands like CDLP, Flore Flore, Gap, and J.Crew.

As for shoes, I'm usually in low heels like kitten-heel sandals or breathable flats like Camper's mesh Mary Janes and the Gimaguas Bailarina Neopreno pair I've been wanting. Keep scrolling to shop these pieces and more below.

Dresses

Skirts

Tank Tops

Swimwear

Kitten-Heel Sandals

Ballet Flats

I've never been afraid to be an outfit repeater. When it's too hot to think, I tend to rely on the same formulas over and over. These six categories are the foundational wardrobe staples that get me through summers in New York City: tank tops, cotton dresses and skirts, sunglasses, cardigans, low-heel sandals, and non-leather flats.

When shopping for summer dresses and skirts, I check the label for a 100% cotton fabrication, such as Cou Cou's pointelle range. It's lightweight, which makes it ideal for the city's inevitable heat waves. Tank tops are another basic I wear constantly, and I'm eyeing new ones from CDLP and Flore Flore. Whether it's a dress or a tank top paired with a skirt, I'll add sandals or flats, a pair of sunglasses, and a lightweight cardigan in my bag, and I'm good to go.

Most days, I'm mixing and matching variations of these go-tos, which are available to shop below.

Sunglasses

Year-round, I bring sunglasses with me whenever I leave the house during the day. Lately, oversize frames have been trending, and I've found myself wearing my bug-eyed pair from Chimi the most. Beyond those, I gravitate toward classic styles from brands such as Celine, Chanel, Khaite x Oliver Peoples, and Prada.

Cotton Dresses & Skirts

I practically live in dresses during the summer. I'm often going on long walks or lying outside, so airy, easy-to-move-in skirts are also essential. I’ve especially been loving 100% cotton styles, since they tend to be the most comfortable when it's hot out.

Tank Tops

I'll admit that I own too many tank tops, but to me, they're similar to underwear. Can you really own too many? When it's sweltering in New York, they're one of the only things I can think to wear.

Low-Heel Sandals

I recently wrote about how I never wear high heels and the two-inch-and-under shoes I wear instead, including kitten-heel sandals. I bought a pair of now-sold-out Stuart Weitzman Minimalist 50 Sandals as an alternative to Manolo Blahnik's Callamu 50 Mules. For a similar pair, I recommend Aeyde's Vero Mules. I've also been wearing a pair of Worishofer's 251 Slides.

Non-Leather Flats

When I'm out and about on my feet for long stretches, heels don't cut it, and leather ballet flats in the heat are a recipe for blisters, so I gravitate toward breathable styles like mesh Mary Janes from Camper and neoprene ballet flats from Gimaguas.

Cardigans

You may be thinking, "Layers for summer?" To that I'd say that I run cold, and the AC blasting in restaurants and on trains requires it. I like keeping a simple black cardigan in my bag, as it goes with everything.

The start of a new season, which in this case is the languid ascent into a balmy summer from a crisp spring, always comes with a few chores; resetting your closet by packing away any pesky winter coats that are still hung up, creating a personal syllabus filled with juicy beach reads and booking a pedicure appointment for all the summer shoes you plan on wearing over the next few months.

On the latter, beloved British high street titan, M&S, has always delivered an exceptional array of affordable but expensive-looking summer shoe styles to slip into. This season is no different, except for the fact that the brand is going even harder on its summer 2026 collection, meaning that the footwear options on offer are more fashion-forward and accessibly priced than ever.

Indeed, it might only be May, but M&S has quite literally covered all grounds in this department, ensuring that there’s a shape for every taste and occasion. Be it the Chloé-inspired, tie-up beaded ankle flats that pair perfectly with wafty puff-sleeve dresses for those park picnics on the horizon, or the slimline minimal trainers you’ll style with Zoë Kravitz, and Harry Styles-endorsed hot pants for your Saturday morning coffee runs through the city, M&S truly will have you putting the best foot forward this season.

From sumptuous strappy sandals rendered in buttery suede to minimal flip-flops designed to complement anything they’re paired with, uncover the 6 major summer shoe trends that M&S is backing this season.

6 Summer Shoe Trends to Shop at M&S in 2026:

1. Sleek Flip-Flops

Style Notes: Without a doubt, flip-flops have become the sandal du jour. With a sleek shape and an innate ability to style, this silhouette pairs perfectly with wide-leg trousers, stovepipe jeans and linen trousers alike.

Shop the Trend:

2. Braided Flats

Style Notes: Be it ballet flats, slippers or sandals, braided accents have become a prevailing motif of late. Inspired by the signature weave of designer brands like Bottega Veneta, this design element feels quitely luxurious and rooted in premium craftsmanship.

Shop the Trend:

3. Sumptuous Suede

Style Notes: Though suede is typically associated with cooler months, M&S are subverting these tropes by rendering the soft-as-butter material in more balmy formats. From ballet flats to strappy sandals and even a surprising indie sleaze-era style, this style is textural, sleek and sophisticated.

Shop the Trend:

4. Retro Runners

Style Notes: Slimline, minimal and low-profile, retro trainers are arguably the defining trainer trend of the decade. With endorsements from prolific of the celebrity style set like Jennifer Lawrence, Jacob Elordi and Kendall Jenner, this is a trainer that is as elegant as it is effortless.

Shop the Trend:

5. Slinky Heels

Style Notes: Warm weather wardrobes aren't complete without a slinky heel. They can dress up any simplistic silhouette with a carefree-ease and suit any night out with an cool polish.

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6. Jelly Sandals

Style Notes: Though this style waxes and wanes in popularity, it's safe to say that jelly sandals have certainly crossed over from a fleeting trend to a timeless silhouette for many a refined dresser. From flip-flops to mules, bring a playful touch to your look with this anything-but-wobbly trend.

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Shop More Chic Summer Shoes at M&S:

For summer 2026, two of the most popular shoes are kitten-heel sandals and ballet flats. With Nordstrom currently hosting the Savings Event until May 11, I decided to browse the sale to see what I could find.

When shopping Nordstrom’s shoe section, I always start with a few favorite brands known for their markdowns. Tory Burch is a standout, with styles like the Runway Ballet Flat and Reva Travel Ballet Flat both included. Stuart Weitzman is another reliable go-to, and timeless options, like the Rio Kitten Heel Sandal, are also part of the event. Other highlights include Calvin Klein’s Skylor Slide Sandal, Black Suede Studio’s Avery 35 Sandal, Marc Fisher’s Antonia Sandal, Tony Bianco’s Krista Sandal, and Vince’s Sanjuan Flip Flop.

Mango has several discounted styles as well, including the Ballet Flat, Kitten Heel Slingback Sandal, Mesh Ballerina Flat, and Play Sandal. I also love Mansur Gavriel’s Mari Kitten Heel Sandal and Square Toe Ballerina Flat.

Below, shop on-sale kitten-heel sandals and ballet flats for summer 2026, starting at $53.

Kitten-Heel Sandals

Ballet Flats

There's nothing like finding out about a sneaky Nordstrom sale, especially when you are looking to update your closet while on a budget. Now until May 11, you can get 25% off of a chic selection of standout Nordstrom finds. I made sure to take inventory right away, knowing that the best pieces tend to sell out quickly. With my affinity for French style in mind, I kept an eye out for spring and summer 2026 pieces that felt stylishly Parisian, and I was not disappointed.

French women are well-known for their effortless take on elevated basics mixed in with sophisticated trends. I rounded up standout pieces that fit the bill. Think elegant tops, timeless dresses, sleek flats, cool jeans, and more. Keep scrolling to discover and shop 21 items from the Nordstrom Savings Event that would look right at home in the closets of stylish women in Paris. Just about everything is under $100.

French-Inspired Nordstrom Sale Picks

The warm-weather season is officially here, so summer and spring dressing are top of mind. Lately, I've been on the hunt for sneakers and flat shoe styles that'll carry me through the months ahead. I stumbled upon quite an extensive selection of on-trend finds from Zappos. Don't worry—I've done what I do best and used my shopping expertise to sift through and highlight a handful of trendy sneakers and flat shoes worth shopping from Zappos today.

If you've also been looking for a little shoe update for the months ahead, you've landed in the right place. From buzzy jelly shoes and woven flat styles to cool low-profile sneakers, there's something for everyone ahead. Top brands such as Sam Edelman, Vince, and Adidas even make a splash. Scroll down to discover my top-tier Zappos sneaker and flats recommendations.

Shop Editor-Approved Zappos Sneakers and Flats

As fashion people (hey there, readers), we care about shoes. Right? Obviously. So yes, this piece is dedicated to fashionable shoes to inspire your summer wardrobes. Oh, and of course Nordstrom comes to mind first when thinking about an epic shoe department, so I pulled the best silhouettes from Nordy specifically.

Below you'll find the styles that matter for the season, including trend-forward sandals (hello, heeled flip-flops), cool sneakers, and modern flats. I could keep chatting, but there are chic shoes to be seen. Enjoy!