So Long, Flip-Flops—These Designer Sandals Are the Talk of the Town This Summer

My wardrobe and I are fully engaged in summer mode, and nothing feels quite as good as breaking out my warm-weather shoes ready for sandal season. In the Who What Wear office each of our editors have their own impeccable sense of individual style that spans everything from refined minimalists to experimental maximalists, but one thing we can all agree on is the power of a good sandal to transform an outfit, and whether you're sitting in the park, dressing up for dinner or running errands, as soon as the sun is out, a summer sandal is the reliable foundation that we can build the rest of our look around.

It is now widely known that I'm the team's self-appointed shoe correspondent given the amount of time I spend trying on, buying, and reviewing shoes, and with an overflowing wardrobe holding everything from high-street heels to Prada loafers, I've got a well-trained shoe-trend radar. But when it comes to finding the right summer sandal, there's one designer brand that crops up time and time again on every "best shoe" list.

I have a working theory that spotting a piece once is a statement, twice is a "moment", and anything more than three times is a certified trend, so it would appear from a cursory tally on Bond Street this week that Gucci sandals are still everywhere this summer. You know them from the moment you spot them, either a green and red stripe, a monogram logo print or interlocking GG hardware–Gucci sandals are undoubtedly designed to be seen.

From the original horsebit adorned pumps of the 1950s to the ubiquitous mule-meets-loafer that sent everyone into a tailspin in 2015, Gucci have given us a whole host of iconic shoes that would change the way we dress forever. Thanks in part to the recent tenure of Alessandro Michele, the Gucci shoe went from a retro throwback to one of the most sought after pieces on the market, shaking things up with brand new artistic flair and all of the pattern-clashing appeal of a Wes Anderson movie. What's not to love?

While we continue to watch with anticipation to see where Michele's successor Sabato De Sarno will take Gucci next after Alessandro's departure in February 2023, it's clear that he has the same eye for design that makes Gucci accessories quite so covetable.

But, it isn't all logomania, and those looking for "quiet luxury", there's something for you too. This season there are neutral leathers, minimalist flat sandals and just the slightest hint of sparkle for evening. And fans of a shoe that prioritises comfort will love the chunky, low block-heels that are equally as special for evening, but will last all day too. In short, there is something for everyone.

So, should you be ready to trade in your flip flops for a luxury sandal worth investing in, I've put together an edit of the very best Gucci sandals on the market now. Wear them with dresses, skirts and wide leg trousers, or take notes from the street style set and wear with tailoring, pops of colour and artisan detailing, the perfect uniform for la dolce vita. So, pour yourself an Aperol spritz and keep scrolling to see the Gucci sandals we're currently obsessed with and how the fashion set are style theirs. Bonus points if you spot a Jackie bag.

HOW THE FASHION CROWD ARE WEARING GUCCI SANDALS

Style Notes: No matter the outfit, a pair of metallic shoes and a matching bag always look party-ready.

Style Notes: Whoever said socks and sandals were exclusively for grandads clearly hadn't seen this look.

Style Notes: Make your sandals the star of the show by wearing head-to-toe block colour and contrasting your shoes.

Style Notes: I feel at least 50% happier just by looking at this mix of colour, texture, and print clashing.

Style Notes: Keeping it simple? Gucci's instantly recognisable logo print makes for a point of interest.

Style Notes: Just about every great Gucci sandal comes in multiple colourways, so you can switch up your entire look with just the change of a shoe.

SHOP THE BEST GUCCI SANDALS