Trendy, Versatile, and Wearable: 7 Summer Shoe Trends That Have It All

As we kick off the first month of summer, items like dresses, shorts, and sandals have naturally started to replace their heavier counterparts in our closets, and that only means one thing: time to usher in a new round of summer shoe trends. Ready to discover all the stylish new footwear this season is bringing? Same. It seems that each time I scroll through my Instagram feed, I'm confronted with the same few shoe styles over and over again, and since I can't get them out of my head, I think it's time to share my findings.

In particular, there are seven shoe trends I've noticed starting to bubble, and I'm predicting they'll become the most important ones of the season, if not the whole year. From Proenza Schouler's chic update to the "ugly" slide sandals we all love to hate to the new spin on flip-flops from The Row and ATP Atelier to the sleek and minimal mules fashion girls are wearing with everything, these are the biggest summer shoe trends, period. Want to be an early adopter? Go on to see and shop our edit of the styles to start wearing now.

1. Sporty Sandals

Trekking, but make it fashion. Rubber-soled, Velcro sandals have officially gone from boring to beautiful thanks to the pretty updates they're getting in eye-catching prints, 3D florals, and croc effect.

2. Retro Sneakers

Say it with me: Throwback sneakers are the kicks of the year. Team them with tall socks and wear with anything from athletic legging looks to printed dresses for a cool vibe this summer.

3. Comfy Slides

Though Birkenstocks date all the way back to 1774, they're one of the trendiest (yet most comfortable) picks of the season. Ground floaty dresses and crisp tailoring with a pair of these comfy, Birkenstock-inspired slides.

4. Minimal Mules

Sleek square-toe mules in neutral hues are the real backbone of any warm-weather wardrobe. Wear them to elevate jeans, finish off a suiting look, or throw them on with shorts and a sweatshirt like Grece did here for a contrasted look.

5. Chunky Platforms

This is the summer of '90s trends, and we're adding another to the list: flatforms. A bit of a chunky sole makes these sandals feel current, and not to mention, the added cushion makes them one of the comfiest picks.

6. Elevated Thongs

Flip-flops, thongs, whatever you want to call them, they're here and they're happening. With their wide straps and leather finishings, they're a chic and modern update to the rubber flip-flops of our past.

7. Lace-Up Sandals

Strappy sandals that tie up around the ankle are the new "naked" sandals for this summer. The delicate straps add an elevated feel to anything you wear them with.

Next up, discover eight designer It bags and their more affordable counterparts.