My Outfits Look 10 Times Cooler When I Wear One of These 8 Summer Shoe Trends
There's nothing like a fashion-forward pair of shoes to give your outfit an of-the-moment look. In summer, my ensembles are mostly made up of simple and easy basics, so a chic pair of shoes can really make the outfit. This warm-weather season, we're seeing a whole host of chic shoe trends take center stage, including feel-good styles such as rope sandals and crochet shoes, along with plenty of sophisticated silhouettes such as sleek slingbacks and satin shoes, not to mention some unexpected preppy styles—we're looking at you, boat shoes.
If you can't quite decide your summer 2024 shoe mood yet, then allow me to help narrow down your search. Below, I'm highlighting eight warm-weather shoe styles that unquestionably make my outfits look 10 times cooler when I wear them. Keep scrolling to take a look.
Mesh Flats
Mesh flats are the shoes of the season. Whether you go for minimalist white or black mesh Mary Janes or transparent ballet flats with charming embellishments, the fresh style will add a trend-forward touch to any outfit.
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Minimalist Silhouettes
If you are after something simple and minimalist, there are plenty of black and white leather thong sandals, flats, and kitten heels with thin, delicate straps that ooze a chic '90s vibe.
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Fisherman Sandals
It feels like fisherman sandals come back into the spotlight every summer, and honestly, I'm 100% here for it. They always add a cool touch to my shorts, jeans, and linen pants. Opt for a chic tan, ivory, or black hue you for utmost versatility.
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Sporty Beach Sandals
Sporty sandals—perfect for the beach and beyond—are having a major moment this season thanks in large part to the Miu Miu runway looks showcasing sandals made of twisted, colorful yachting rope. These feel-good, fresh styles will make you want to get outside and move, and simply put, they look cool.
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Mary Janes
Classic and chic, Mary Janes continue to be the shoes of the moment—loved by the fashion set. Every time I wear a pair, my outfit looks 10 times chicer. While I own several black and white pairs, I also have my eyes on some fun colors for summer.
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Comfy Soles
Flatform sandals are another style we see coming back to the forefront of our wardrobes this summer. Opt for comfy soles paired with minimalist straps and silhouettes to keep the look elegant and chic. Trust me, these are the pairs you'll reach for time and again.
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Boat Shoes
Yes, you heard right—boat shoes are the hot-ticket item of the warm-weather season. This month, I found myself (unbelievably but excitedly) shopping for the East Coast preppy style, and every time I wear them, I feel unabashedly cool. Style them with your swim suits, shorts, and plenty of anklets for a trendy summer look.
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Kitten Heels
Whether you go for pointed-toe slingbacks, mules, or sandals, kitten heels will make your outfit look chic and polished. And the best part, of course, is they're easy to walk in.
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Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
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