Much unlike the naked-effect floss shoes that have dominated the last few warm-weather seasons, for summer 2020, footwear is getting puffy. That's right—barely there sandals are slowly but surely being eclipsed by padded styles ranging from subtle to in-your-face. And as someone who never found threadlike straps to be particularly comfortable in footwear to begin with, the change is very much welcome—at least by me.
Sure, they're a little weird, but they also possess an undeniable cool factor and are a lot more forgiving on your feet. The aforementioned coolness is only further backed-up by the slew of brands supporting the movement. From the Bottegas and Proenzas of the world to emerging labels such as Studio Amelia and Aeydē to everyday brands Mango and Zara, just keep scrolling to see 24 iterations of puffy and padded shoes that make the trend look too good to pass up this summer.
These look like clouds for your feet.
Tackle two trends in one with this padded and sporty pair.
I'd never take them off.
As usual, Bottega Veneta was a trailblazer of this trend.
A block heel just means more comfort.
A subtle take on the trend that still gets the point across.
These from the Gia x Pernille collab are a fashion-girl favorite.
Upgrade your casual flip-flops.
The perfect example of simple slides that aren't boring.
Proenza Schouler actually designed several shoes around this trend, but I think this heel is my favorite iteration.
The ones you're constantly seeing on Instagram.
Ruched, but also puffy.
Another sporty take for anyone active (or who simply likes to dress as though they are).
Of course, Topshop managed to merge the trend with multiple others.
So good that I had to include both color options.
These will look perfect with all your summer floral dresses.
I'm very into the extra height on these slides.
Our readers love this majorly marked-down pair.
This wide heel will be much more comfortable than stilettos of a similar height.
A pop of color never hurts.
Style this with anything from minidresses to jeans.
You won't get sick of this simple pair.
This is how to make a wedge feel modern.
It wouldn't be a trend if Zara wasn't on board.
Next, seven random trends that are definitely a thing right now.
-
Jennifer Lawrence Has Traded Her Sneakers for the Trendiest Summer Sandals of 2025Will you join her?
-
The Anti–Ballet Flats French and Italian Brands Are Currently Smitten WithChic flats, sans ballet.
-
Flat-Shoe Summer Awaits—Here's What Everyone's Wearing Instead of HeelsShop the styles inside.
-
The Items Everyone With Good Taste Is Eyeing From Free PeopleCaution: may cause shopping spree.
-
I Don't Know About You, But I Think These 31 Zara Items Are Incredibly TemptingYour summer wardrobe reset is here.
-
The 2025 Vacation Edit: Every Cool Trend and Brand to Pack in Your SuitcaseReady your PTO.
-
Only You and I Will Know These 29 Items Came From ZaraI won't tell if you don't.
-
I Finally Got Around to Creating My Annual Spring Shopbop Wish List—You're WelcomeEnjoy.
