Granted, we may not be reaching for the denim shorts just yet, but as we wave hello to the spring sunshine and start to shed some winter layers, it’s safe to say that sandal season has finally arrived. And, undoubtedly, dresses act as the perfect accompaniment to the toe-baring shoe. So, to help you get a head start on your summer capsule wardrobe, I’ve scrolled through countless dress and sandals looks to find the chicest combinations I'll be recreating this summer, and I have a feeling you will too.
After all, while an outfit with just two components may seem incredibly straightforward at first, there are a few subtle styling tweaks that can make it appear a bit more polished. If you’ve ever felt your frock and flip-flop look isn’t quite as sleek as the styles you see on social media, then you’ll most likely understand exactly what I mean.
A heavily detailed dress design with ruching, fringing or even a bright and bold pattern may seamlessly pair with a simple strappy sandal over a chunky black flip-flop, for example. While a simple, pared-back maxi will let a more detailed slip-on make more of a statement. Plus, don’t underestimate the allure of an all-black outfit, even in summertime, as Monikh’s loose-fitting look proves rather perfectly.
Scroll below to see seven dress and sandal looks for every occasion, plus the tips on how to achieve each elevated look.
5 Dress and Sandals Outfits That Deserve a Spot On Your Summer Moodboard:
1. Maxi Dress + Suede Sandals
Style Notes: While leather sandals are a classic go-to, suede styles feel a touch more modern. Take style notes from Aimee Song and pair yours with a rust-coloured dress, leaning into a real Mediterranean summer kind of look.
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Rust shades gently step away from neutrals while still being incredibly easy to style.
A.Emery designed sandals are a fashion editor favourite and super comfortable as well.
I’ve had this pair of Les Specs forever, no matter the outfit, they always deliver.
2. Linen Dress + Chunky Sandals
Style Notes: Chanel's chunky sandals shot to fame a few summers ago with plenty of fashion fans putting them at the top of their wishlists. Luckily, there's now no short supply of similar chunky sandal styles and what better way to let them stand out than pairing them with a simple yet chic white linen maxi?
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A tried and true Who What Wear UK dress, Reformation's Balia dress minimalist staple in so many of our summer wardrobes, the corset body is amazing at cinching you in! Id pair with Adidas Speedcats for a casual look.
Seen on some of my favourite style icons such as Olivia Neill, Ruby Lynn, and Hollie Mercedes, this bag has been on my vision board for a while!
Hereu fisherman sandals are a feel like a classic in the making.
3. Silk Dress + Slider Sandals
Style Notes: In the summer, I always lean toward the “less fabric, the better” approach—especially when away. And nothing feels quite like a second skin than silk and satin. These fabrics are naturally breathable and keep you cool all day long, making them the perfect sophisticated styling option on even the hottest days. Whether you're dressing your dress up or down, its versatility is endless: gold earrings and heels or a basket bag and sandals can instantly transform the look to suit your mood and locale. When paired with a slider, you’ve got yourself a chic, summer-ready outfit.
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I have this dress in black and find myself coming back to it year after year.
The gold detailing adds just the right amount of luxury to an otherwise casual sandal silhouette.
Isn’t she just beautiful? Simple yet elegant, I’d take this Chloé raffia bag on all my summer vacations if I owned her.
4. Black Dress + Black Sandals
Style Notes: Although the warmer weather may typically draw you towards paler shades, don't rule out all-black outfits. Proving they're both sleek and easy to wear, Monikh Dale makes a strong case for the sandal and dress look in the shade.
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This versatile cotton maxi can be dressed up for more relaxed office environments and pared-back for garden barbecues.
Another The Row shoe... These flip flops are a regular sell-out and the sandal du jour of many a fashion editor.
I’ve been hearing whispers that the Tiffany Elsa Peretti Bean necklace—spotted in Monikh’s photo—is the accessory of the moment. With stock flying , I’d move quickly if it’s on your wishlist like it is mine!
5. Detailed Dress + Strappy Sandal
Style Notes: Heavily detailed dresses with ruching, fringing or a statement pattern often need very little in way of accessories – sandals included. So, take styling tips from Thandi and pair yours with a simple strappy sandal.
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While the yellow colourway has sold out in some sizes, this vibrant orange is just as chic.
Another footwear favourite, the thin leather straps on these A.Emery sandals will help transition your outfit from day to night with ease.
6. Floral Dress + Classic Birkenstocks
Style Notes: Birkenstocks have long been a fashion fan favourite and for good reason – they're easy to style, simple to slip on and actually quite comfortable. Here, Karina Marriott proves they also pair perfectly with a floral frock, creating a more casual ensemble.
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Ditsy print dresses can be dressed up with a strappy heel or down with a basic Birkenstock, making them an easy to wear wardrobe staple.
Now available in a wide range of colours, there's a Birkenstock shoe to suit every outfit.
The perfect throw-it-all-in-and-go summer tote, the Polène Cyme is surprisingly spacious, and the raffia finish gives the effortless beach vibe I’m chasing all summer long.
7. Full Dress + Flip Flops
Style Notes: Throw-on dresses with roomy silhouettes are one of my favourites to wear during the summer as they help keep me cool on even the balmiest of days. And, for 2025, I know exactly how I want to wear mine. With a sophistication in its softness, butter yellow is the easiest way to add a touch of colour to any wardrobe, even the most neutral, due to its versatility. Spotted on celebrities including Sabrina Carpenter and Simone Ashley and even Princess Catherine, this shade has proven itself a staple this summer. With a large dress, why not counter the volume with a simple sandal? When paired with a flip-flop, you get that balance just right. I especially enjoy the colour clash of butter yellow and burgundy, as seen in this look. Plus, if you’ve spent any time online or browsing our content lately, chances are you'll have noticed that red flip flops are very much a thing.
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This dress looks so much more expensive than it is.
Another pair of A.Emery sandals has gone straight into my shopping bag. That contrast stitching? Absolutely divine!
The Alaïa Le Teckel is a fashion-person favourite for a reason. Instantly recognisable at a glance, this light blue colourway is exactly what the sunshine ordered.
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