Chunky Sandals Can Be Tricky to Style, But These 9 Outfits Make It So Easy

So-called "ugly" trends have been reigning supreme for the last couple of years. Sporty trainers, knitted tank tops, tie-dye prints and quilted coats are just some of the trends that may have initially raised eyebrows but are now adored by fashion types. This is also the case when it comes to spring/summer 2023's most prolific shoes.
Chunky sandals started making tracks a few years ago when Teva's double-strap sandals flooded our feeds. Chanel also brought out its own pair of chunky sandals, which, although emblazoned with the iconic double Cs and finished in bouclé, still fell under the "ugly"-but-somehow-chic category. More recently year, The Row's Ginza platform-sole flip-flops became a status symbol.
I watched on, assuming chunky sandals would disappear as quickly as they came. However, as we approach another glorious summer, they're still at the top of the sandal agenda. I'll admit I was sceptical at first, but now, I'm a chunky-sandal convert. Having finally invested in my own pair, I've been looking for inspiration on how to wear them, of which I've found plenty, though the following suggestions are perhaps my favourites. From some of Instagram's best dressers, the below chunky-sandal outfits will earn you countless compliments this summer.
1. WHITE DRESS + GOLD JEWELLERY
Style Notes: For laid-back afternoons in the sun, toughen up a pretty white dress with a pair of strong black sandals.
SHOP THE LOOK:
2. TANK TOP + WIDE-LEG TROUSERS
Style Notes: Balance out the proportions of wide-leg trousers and chunky sandals with a sleek slim-fit tank top.
SHOP THE LOOK
3. BLACK BLAZER + BAGGY JEANS
Style Notes: Baggy jeans are a huge trend this season—keep them from looking too Jesse Pinkman by adding a smart blazer.
SHOP THE LOOK
4. SLOUCHY BLAZER + MATCHING TROUSERS
Style Notes: Give your suiting a downtime spin with the addition of a pair of chunky sandals, just like Monikh Dale.
SHOP THE LOOK
The oversized silhouette of this blazer allows for low-key styling.
I’m always drawn to pleated trousers.
5. BASIC VEST + DENIM SHORTS
Style Notes: I’m dreaming of the days when I can leave the house in a pair of denim shorts and a vest top and feel comfortable in the temperature. When that day comes, this is the look I’ll be replicating.
SHOP THE LOOK
6. BLACK DRESS + MINIMAL ACCESSORIES
Style Notes: All-black outfits never fail to look stylish. Here, the simple pairing of black sandals and a cotton minidress is effortless to assemble but impactful on the eye.
SHOP THE LOOK
7. RUFFLE BLOUSE + HIGH-WAIST JEANS
Style Notes: A milkmaid blouse and jeans is the outfit I reach for when I don’t know what to wear. And now, I know which shoes to pair with it.
SHOP THE LOOK
8. SHIRT DRESS + SHOULDER BAG
Style Notes: It doesn't get much more effortless than a breezy shirt dress, especially if you team it with slip-on sandals.
SHOP THE LOOK
9. SLIP SKIRT + T-SHIRT
Style Notes: When I become fatigued of jeans, the first thing I grab is a slip skirt—and I plan on giving my collection of slinky midis structure with some chunky flip-flops like Lucy Williams's.
SHOP THE LOOK
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: I'm on the Hunt for Anti-Trend Sandals—Here Are 20 I've Seen and Loved

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s Deputy Editor and has over fourteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and authoritative content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, talent interviews self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their search and keyword planning, works closely with the fashion and beauty team on strategy and continues to pen many of her own articles. Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine's contributed to publications including Grazia, InStyle Marie Claire, Elle and Look, amongst others.
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