Yes, flip-flops may be emerging as the sandal trend of summer, but in my opinion, there’s an even chicer—and considerably more comfortable—alternative that fashion people should be paying attention to instead. Spotted just this week on Emma Watson, who wore a pair whilst venturing out in Lake Como this week, the actor swapped flimsy flip-flops for ankle-strap sandals in the chicest shade of brown.

Not only are they far more practical for navigating the cobblestone streets of Italy, but there’s also something inherently elegant about a fine sandal strap delicately wrapping around the ankle. It adds a sleek point of interest, whilst the secure fit offers the confidence of knowing your shoes aren’t going to slip off at the first uneven paving stone. Because, really, there’s nothing less elegant than tripping over a flimsy shoe.

Styling hers with a white cotton minidress and a brown woven-leather bag, Emma crafted the kind of chic, high-summer outfit I’d gladly replicate.

A small outfit detail with outfit-enhancing energy, read on to discover and shop the chicest ankle-strap sandals to pair with minidresses—and much more—this summer below.

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It's fair to say that over the past few weeks of scorching heat, sandals have been the only feasible summer shoe option that we've been able to wear comfortably. Proof of this is the sheer number of sandal trends that have come out of summer 2026—see jellies, mules, peep-toes and, of course, the minimalist flip-flop—but one elegant shoe style has suddenly caught my full attention after Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, the queen of minimalist luxe, stepped out wearing them this week.

Toe-ring and toe-loop sandals might not be new, but they are perfectly placed at the centre of a bigger conversation around fashion's current obsession with feet. If it's not Saint Laurent's clear brogues, Havaianas' toe-concealed flip-flop or the Vibram Five Fingers, fashion insiders are adorning their feet with jewellery (and yes, toe rings are making a comeback).

If the thought of an "ugly" shoe trend is too far outside of your comfort zone, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has proved that there is a conversation-starting sandal for even the most refined dresser; her simple black leather sandal with a loop around the big toe was a nod to weird shoes everywhere without having to go full pelt.

Outside of her choice of sandal, there's also a lot to be said for how this look is a masterclass in wearing black for summer. An off-the-shoulder top, black trousers and long pendant were all this outfit needed to become a day-to-night wonder in which you won't overheat.

Want to re-create her look? Keep scrolling to shop similar pieces inspired by Rosie's wardrobe, and to see our pick of the best toe-loop and toe-ring sandals to shop now.

Shop Rosie HW's Black Summer Look

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It's true—for years, flip-flops have been synonymous with easy summer dressing. They're the shoes we instinctively reach for when the temperatures rise, and whether we're heading to the beach, running weekend errands or packing for a holiday abroad, they're the throw-on-and-go wonder that we've come to rely on. But this season, fashion's most stylish dressers are proving there's a whole host of chic alternatives that deserve a place in your warm-weather wardrobe too. Offering the same effortless appeal, but with a noticeably more elevated finish, this summer's biggest anti-flip-flop trends strike the perfect balance between comfort, versatility and polish.

From nostalgic colour trends and elegant flats, to timeless woven sandals and refined loafers, the shoes dominating both the streets and the runways feel considered yet incredibly easy to wear. They pair just as effortlessly with linen trousers as they do floaty dresses, Bermuda shorts and tailored separates, making them the kind of hardworking investments you'll reach for time and time again. And, better still, these styles transition seamlessly from casual daytime to your evening plans too, proving that practical footwear doesn't have to compromise on style.

So, f you're looking to refresh your summer wardrobe or simply want an alternative to the ubiquitous flip-flop, you've come to the right place dear reader. Keep scrolling to see the key summer shoe trends fashion editors, influencers and industry insiders are embracing this season—styles that feel modern, timeless and destined to become the hardest-working pairs in your collection (and not a flip flop in sight).

1. Cage Shoes

Style Notes: One of my favourite things about flip-flops is how breathable they are. On the hottest days you won't want to commit to full coverage, leather shoe, and for that reason, caged sandals should be high on your agenda. Just as easy to slip on and go, but with a little more directional detailing, from jellies to leather, cages sandals are proving popular during heatwaves when you need a shoe smarter than a flip-flop .

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2. Gold Sandals

Style Notes: Eat your heart out, Carrie Bradshaw—statement gold sandals have skyrocketed almost overnight, an expected colour choice for sunny summers. It makes perfect sense though, once the sun catches this metallic, it really comes alive, so whether you're wearing an equally dressy slip, or styling up a white tee and jeans, these shoes are the focal point that are sure to earn you compliments.

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3. Boat Shoes

Style Notes: We can't discuss summer shoes without preparing for every eventuality (this is British weather after all), and once the hot spells have subsided you're going to need something a little more substantial—enter the boat shoe. These may be considered divisive, but the truth is, they aren't too far removed from the classic penny loafer, just with some extra detailing. All of my favourite pairs right now are in buttery soft suede that pairs well with white dresses and voluminous trousers, but did I mention how good bold pops of colour look too?

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4. Rope Sandals

Style Notes: Windbreakers, Bermuda shorts, bucket hats and visor sunnies, fashion is experimenting with another Gorpcore summer, and if it looks like it could have stepped straight off a hike and onto a runway, it's going to score major points. Inspired by trekky-chic (can we call it that?), rope sandals have the same trail-following energy as the laces of a hiking boot, albeit with more elevated execution. Take notes from Alexis [pictured above] and keep your look simple, allowing the sandals to take centre stage.

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5. Ladylike Shoes

Style Notes: As much as minimalist flip-flops feel like they go with everything, they aren't quite right for every dress code. Sometimes when you need a little extra polish, only the smartest shoes will do, and this summer instead of severe courts and angular heels, you can trust ballet flats, slingbacks, and to get the job done. Take it from the best dressed French girls who are rarely seen in flop-flops away from the beach.

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6. Wedges

Style Notes: We've had a lot of trends (both bad and good) make a reappearance off of the back of the Y2K revival, and one of the most recent is wedges. Peep toes, flatforms, boho wood—the elevated sole is highly favoured again (pun intended), and they make for more comfortable and longer wear than most skinny heels. Exactly what you need on a hot summers day.

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The spell of good weather is far from over, but by this point in the season, even your go-to summer favourites can start to lose a little of their shine. If you're feeling that way, rather than investing in an entirely new outfit, I'd recommend making one small addition to enhance your summer rotation.

Courtesy of Jennifer Lopez, who I recently spotted on holiday swapping classic black flip-flops for a sophisticated gold pair, my summer wardrobe is about to get a whole lot more elevated. Styled with a white cotton minidress, the metallic sandals enhanced the lightness of her look rather than grounding it, as black leather flip-flops inevitably would.

There's something inherently elevated about gold footwear. While it's not your typical neutral, it's just as versatile—its pale shade wearing well with many others. Unlike cream or beige, gold adds a little extra depth and dimension to an outfit, whilst tying in with gold jewellery to create a sense of cohesion that always feels considered.

Inspired to give your summer wardrobe one final refresh? Read on to discover the best gold flip-flops to shop now.

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We're approaching that sweet spot in summer when the temperature dips just enough to make styling your favourite jeans feel appealing again. At the same time, sandal season is far from over, and thus, the perfect conditions for one of my all-time favourite outfit formulas—straight-leg jeans and thong sandals—has arrived.

In fact, I'm already seeing this styling formula find its feet. Spotted on the very same evening, Cindy Crawford and Claire Foy stepped out in the combination, putting a spotlight on the jeans and shoe combinaiton that chicest dressers will be wearing next.

Wearing jeans in the same timeless cut, Cindy and Claire swapped skinny and flared styles for relaxed straight-leg jeans with a slightly oversized, '90s-inspired fit. Keeping their looks effortless, they paired their jeans with pared-back flat sandals—Cindy opting for sleek T-bar thong sandals, whilst Claire chose simple flip-flops.

Whilst Cindy completed her look with a billowy black blouse and Claire leaned into the approaching season with a rich red knit, this jeans and shoe trend works just as well with a simple white tank or classic T-shirt, making it an easy outfit formula to you can revisit throughout the rest of summer and well into early autumn.

The outfit combination I'll be wearing until the very last warm day of the season, scroll on to shop the straight-leg jeans and thong sandals I recommend.

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I've always believed that some of the strongest outfits are born in the space between seasons, so whilst I'm still making the most of summer dressing, I've also started thinking about the autumn staples I can begin weaving into my wardrobe now, and Jennifer Lawrence has reminded me of one of the very best.

Pairing summer's favourite shoe trend—sleek leather flip-flops—with what I predict will be one of autumn's most-worn trousers, wide-leg black styles, Jennifer crafted one of her best looks. Effortless and elegant, her black, wide-leg trousers and leather flip-flops outfit offers an easy way to settle your styling into the new season without giving up the breezy pieces we're still reaching for now.

Choosing fluid black trousers that pooled around her feet, Jennifer's minimalist leather flip-flops revealed just enough skin to stop the look from feeling heavy. She finished the outfit with a white button-down shirt, styling a knit draped over her shoulders and tied across the front, and Dior's convertible Cigale Bag in a soft pale pink worked to bring a hit of colour to an otherwise pared-back palette.

We're currently in that sweet spot of the year when full-length trousers feel comfortable again, but open-toe shoes are still more than appropriate. If you're looking for an easy outfit formula to wear now and well into next season, keep scrolling to shop the best wide-leg black trousers and leather flip-flops to recreate Jennifer Lawrence's look below.

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Leather flip-flops will always have a place in my wardrobe, but if you're looking for a flip-flop that feels just a little more playful this summer, there's another style I have to point you towards.

Spotted beachside this week, Eva Longoria swapped classic leather pairs for a set of clear flip-flops, styling the trend with high-waisted denim shorts and a simple bikini top. Bringing an easy-going energy to her outfit, Eva's transparent flip-flops leaned into the season's favourite shoe silhouette, all the while offering the practicality needed for beachside styling. Unlike leather styles, the rubberised construction copes with sand and water, making them a smart choice for holidays and beach days.

Whilst their casual nature makes them a natural partner for denim shorts, I also love the idea of using them to bring a playful twist to this season's knee-length skirts and elegant midi dresses, as the transparent finish means they pair well with any shade.

A few seasons ago, I never would have predicted clear flip-flops would become a fashion-person favourite. Yet in 2026, they're proving to be one of the most surprising summer shoe trends around. Intrigued? Scroll on to shop the best clear flip-flops below.

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Flip-flops have officially ditched their bad reputation, especially in New York. Many locals had sworn off them until the last few years, when they came roaring back into fashion's good graces thanks to Scandi girls and a few elevated styles from the likes of The Row and Toteme. That's not to say, though, that the flat shoe style is for everyone. Whether they're trendy or not, some people still refuse to wear flip-flops, preferring other flat sandals, and that's their right. Fortunately, there are plenty of chic flip-flop alternatives, and one particular style is a beloved choice among women in their 30s and 40s, from Jennifer Lawrence to Meghan Markle.

The former recently wore a pair in New York City, where it's blisteringly hot out, calling for easy, comfortable sandals. Lawrence was spotted on her way to dinner, nearby Altro Paradiso in SoHo. For the occasion, she chose a cropped graphic tee, an ivory maxi slip skirt, and a pair of cognac-brown toe-loop sandals. She finished off the look with a vintage burgundy Fendi baguette bag.

Toe-Loop Sandals on Jennifer Lawrence

On Jennifer Lawrence: vintage Fendi bag

Lawrence is far from the first A-lister to wear toe-loop sandals instead of flip-flops or other sandal styles. For years, Meghan Markle has worn a pair by Emme Parsons that features a jewellery-like toe bauble, wearing them with everything from denim shorts to jersey jumpsuits. Specifically, hers are called the Laurie Sandals, and they come in many colours.

Toe-Loop Sandals on Meghan Markle

On Meghan Markle: Dôen shorts; Emme Parsons New Laurie Sandals

As a result of high-profile fans like these, toe-loop sandals have quietly risen in the ranks in fashion, offering an alternative to those who either want to switch it up from flip-flops or downright dislike the popular, albeit controversial, flat-sandal trend. If either fits your current feelings for the shoes, keep scrolling. There are plenty of elegant toe-loop sandals of all styles below.

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Yes, there actually is a "cool girl" way to style jeans and sandals right now, and, fresh from the streets of Los Angeles this week, Lucy Hale demonstrated exactly what it looks like. Forgoing slim-fitting denim and chunky caged sandals, she instead reached for slouchy wide-leg jeans and understated, '90s-inspired flip-flops—the chicest way to wear denim and get your toes out this summer.

The loose-leg jeans skim the frame for a comfortable and relaxed feel. Meanwhile, the barely-there flip-flops keep the look streamlined and balance the volume of the denim, whilst the slip-on design plays into the unfussy energy of the look

Styled with a simple strappy tank, a baseball cap and, with a smoothie in hand, Lucy delivered one of the coolest—and most L.A.—looks I've spotted all summer.

To get this chic styling formula right, let the jeans puddle slightly and hang loose, then offset their volume with sleek, minimal sandals. Taking Lucy's outfit as my blueprint, scroll on to shop the wide-leg jeans and '90s-inspired flip-flops I'd recommend buying—and wearing together—this season.

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Touching down in Paris this week, Claudia Schiffer stepped off her flight and into the city wearing a travel-friendly jeans-and-sandals combination that had her ready to hit Paris's streets on landing. Whilst most people take a comfort-first approach to airport dressing—I've seen too many track pants and leggings worn with flip-flops or slides to count this summer—I've long been an advocate for the French-girl-inspired jeans-and-sandals outfit for summer travel days.

Arriving in the French capital, Claudia styled an elegant pair of flared jeans with simple brown strappy sandals. Effortless, but polished and comfortable, her throw-on combination was perfectly suited to a day spent travelling.

I've always found flip-flops a little too flimsy for travel days, but with summer serving up a string of heatwaves, closed-toe shoes aren't always the most practical option either. Instead, I gravitate towards sleek strappy sandals that buckle securely around the foot, offering a little more support without sacrificing elegance. Paired with flared jeans, they tap into a retro French-girl aesthetic, whilst the longer hem skims over the foot, adding a little more coverage. Meanwhile, the generous flare on the hem adds some room to the jeans, preventing the rigid fabrication from feeling too restrictive. But my ultimate hack for travelling in jeans is to choose a well-worn flared pair that's long been broken in.

Going from the plane straight into the heart of Paris? This is exactly how I'd do it. Read on to shop the jeans and sandals pairing I'll be wearing for every flight this summer.

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If the season's favourite sleek, '90s-inspired flip-flops haven't been speaking to you, you're in luck. Whilst barely-there sandals have dominated for the past few summers, Zendaya has just made a convincing case for their very antithesis: the gladiator sandal trend. Stepping out ahead of a press event in New York today, the actor wore a knee-high pair of heeled gladiator sandals, reviving one of the most recognisable shoe trends of the late 2000s and early 2010s.

A world away from this season's minimalist flip-flops, gladiator sandals are defined by their network of straps that wrap around the foot, ankle and calf. Whilst the trend reached peak popularity during the boho era of the 2010s, its origins stretch much further back, taking inspiration from the protective footwear worn by ancient Roman gladiators.

Whilst Zendaya gave the nostalgic style a modern moment, pairing her knee-grazing shoes with a white minidress and long drop earrings, this summer shoe trend would also work well with longer-line dresses to play into the relaxed, boho aesthetic.

If you've been waiting for a sandal trend with a little more impact than the minimalist styles that have dominated in recent years, this might just be it. Read on to shop the best gladiator sandals below.

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If you're less of a skirts-and-dresses person and, like me, reach for trousers and jeans far more often, you might be wondering what to wear on your bottom half now that sandal season is in full swing. For answers, it pays to look to L.A.'s best dressed, who have long understood the art of warm-weather styling.

Taking my cues from one of the city's chicest, naturally, I headed to Hailey Bieber's Instagram this week in search of some outfit inspiration. Luckily, it didn't take long until the model and entrepreneur demonstrated the leggings trend that works best with sandals.

Skipping the capri leggings she's long loved, instead, Hailey opted for a sleek pair of flared leggings. Skimming over the top of her sandals, the flared silhouette balances the bareness of an open-toe shoe, creating a more considered finish. Whilst slim-fitting leggings can sometimes feel a little stark when paired with barely-there sandals, the extra volume through the hem lends the outfit a better sense of proportion.

In a very L.A.-inspired styling move, Hailey wore the leggings with an oversized black hoodie and wore her hair swept back into a neat bun. Relaxed, but not scruffy, it's a combination I'll be recreating throughout the rest of summer. If you're also inspired, keep scrolling to shop the best flared leggings below.

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If you want to keep jeans in your summer rotation, then you'll appreciate the chic denim-and-sandals pairing I just spotted in New York. Stepping out in the city, Dua Lipa styled a classic pair of straight-leg stovepipe jeans with black leather flip-flops, bringing an effortlessly cool, '90s-inspired energy into her low-key look.

Building on her understated foundation, Dua layered a black tank top beneath a white button-down shirt, finishing the look with oversized black sunglasses and a roomy black leather shoulder bag, creating an unfussy but polished summer outfit that's so easy to recreate.

Whilst ballet flats will always look chic with jeans, this latest heatwave makes the pairing feel a little impractical. Instead, open-toe leather flip-flops have become the summer shoe of choice. More refined than the chunky fisherman sandals that have dominated the past few summers, this pared-back style works particularly well with this season's slimmer jean silhouettes, creating a sleek, warm-weather outfit that you can keep coming back to.

One of the chicest ways to style denim this summer, read on to shop my edit of the best Dua-inspired jeans and leather flip-flops available now.

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After a series of summers being claimed by a specific fruit (tomato girl summer), tinned fish (sardine girl summer) or a Nancy Meyers-inspired matriarch (coastal grandmother summer), this season feels refreshingly devoid of a specific archetype that everyone is chasing.

That was until Jennifer Lawrence stepped out yesterday in New York City. The actor’s off-duty wardrobe is a masterful combination of bohemian maximalism, quiet luxury and vintage pieces, resulting in eccentric ensembles that always look luxurious and artistic, albeit accessible. And after a few years dominated by a collective obsession with stealth wealth of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy-inspired minimalism, it’s a welcome change to see a member of the celebrity style set borrow from different genres and sartorial moods when pulling together their looks.

It sounds trite, especially given how the majority of us wouldn’t ever think about the provenance or aesthetic of the item of clothing we’re wearing, but where street style can sometimes feel so prescriptive, you can’t fault the Oscar winner for stepping out in something you know a stylist didn’t meticulously curate for her. This is precisely why we should all be trying to have a Jennifer Lawrence summer this season.

Instead of adhering to a set formula or micro trend, the most chic amongst us are using the warm months to experiment with unexpected silhouettes, referencing different decades and taking cues from random places from art, film and literature. Take her latest look, for instance.

Whilst running errands in Manhattan, Lawrence stepped out in a pretty standard formula of denim shorts, white T-shirt and balmy sandals. However, to make the look feel more aligned with her own personal tastes, and by direct correlation more authentic and therefore aspirational, she subverted these basics by opting for graphic touches, vibrant colourways and refined shapes.

The look in question was centred around a pair of elongated denim Bermuda shorts from New York-based brand Still Here. Long and loose, the soft shape casually grazed her knee, invoking the blissful elegance of Brigitte Bardot wandering through Saint-Tropez. But rather than feeling too Parisian-on-vacation, she paired the look with an oversized T-shirt of dolphins swimming in São Jorge in Portugal. It’s the exact thing you might buy ironically as a tourist from a hotel gift shop, but when paired with a Marty Supreme orange croc bag and polished T-bar sandals, the look felt instantly elevated.

Still, she didn’t stop there. On her face, she opted for The Row’s oversized Maud sunglasses, which are a bug-eye shape beloved by the likes of Harry Styles and Zoë Kravitz. Of course, if you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ll be aware of how much Celine’s ‘60s-inspired shades are dominating fashion spheres. Here, Lawrence is wearing something that can only be described as Jackie Kennedy by way of Miami Beach with a touch of French Riviera refinement. Now, try to summarise that into three viral words…

Shop Jennifer Lawrence's Exact White Denim Shorts and T-Bar Sandals:

Shop White Denim Shorts with T-Bar Sandals:

If the summer of 2026 has taught me anything, it's that the flip-flops we once relied on solely as poolside shoes have now firmly cemented their place as a capsule wardrobe staple. Talk to any editor, influencer or fashion person in 2026, and you’ll find that they all own at least one pair of these easy slip-on sandals. Long gone are the days of the flimsy rubber in overly bright colours we all probably associate with our childhood; in their place lie a myriad of sleeker, versatile shades that you’ll spot on any elegant dresser. The most recent colour I’ve been spotting on chic fashion people? Brown hues that perfectly strike the balance between being classic enough to pair with any colour or pattern and feeling fresh enough to serve as a nice yet no-less-polished point of difference from timeless black flip-flops.

I can picture myself styling these with my white tank and black linen trousers for the office, and swapping them for a lace-trimmed satin slip dress and a statement clutch for summer evenings. But not only will brown flip-flops pair well with your warm-weather staples now, but they can easily be taken well into early autumn by pairing them with a lightweight cardigan and stovepipe jeans.

Whether you’re thinking of investing in a trusty high-street hero or olanning to splurge out that bit of extra cash on a designer find, brown flip-flops are guaranteed to last in your wardrobe for many years to come. Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best.

The Best Brown Flip-Flops for Summer 2026

I remember spotting the sarouel trouser trend early last year when some of my favourite gorpcore influencers started wearing the Snow Peak gather pants. Voluminous and full of movement, they brought a whole new silhouette to some of fashion's favourite pieces, from Salomon trainers to technical jackets.

It wasn't long before this trouser shape was picked up by other style tribes, and as of today they are one of the most popular trousers for summer, competing with barrel-legs and bloomers for top place.

When a new trouser silhouette comes around, one of the first problems we face is figuring out what shoes work best. I jumped on this trend as soon as I could but found myself sticking to trainers as that had always been my styling reference point. With some trial and error as well as sarouel trousers in a variety of different fabrics and colourways, I was able to come up with some fool-proof combinations that will see me and my favourite trousers through the summer season.

So whether you're new to the sarouel trouser trend or are looking to step out of your comfort zone, below I have compiled an edit of the best shoes to pair with them. Read on to find out more.

1. Thong Sandals

Style Notes: I don't think there is a single item of clothing this season's flip-flop trend doesn't work with, and sarouel trousers are no exception. The contrast of exaggerated volume and pared-back, barely-there minimalism works perfectly together and allows for you to really play with colour combinations and texture. Pair linen with leather, or jersey with jelly - there's no wrong answer here.

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2. Ballet Sneakers

Style Notes: If you're after a feminine athleisure feel then look to ballet sneakers. They tap into that original gorpcore vibe without the chunkyness of a trainer, adding a streamlined element that shows off the volume of the trousers.

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3. Strappy Heels

Style Notes: Dress up your sarouel trousers with a pair of strappy heeled sandals. The key is to keep things minimal as the star of the show is the trouser's silhouette, so a sleek pair with dainty straps is where it's at.

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4. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Another go-with-everything pair that really enhance everything that we love about sarouel trousers. Because the trouser silhouette is so unique, you can go bold with your ballet flats. From metallics to embellishment, square-toes to lace-up details, the more statement the better.

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5. Heeled Pumps

Style Notes: Classic heels are making a comeback, and what better way to work them into your 2026 wardrobe than with the trousers of the season. Keep the shape sleek but look for unique textures such as mesh or satin and statement heel shapes.

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Each season we are inevitably inundated with new trends and key pieces to have on our radar. While the runway sets the tone for trends months in advance, by the time actually summer arrives, it's interesting to see what influences have been taken and incorporated into more wearable street styles. Though clothing trends tend to move at a much quicker pace, accessory trends are set at the start of the season and typically have more longevity, as we wear them with just about everything already in our wardrobes.

As we continue striving for the balance of practical and timeless (while still keeping our wardrobes feeling fresh and on-trend), I’ve been looking for versatile key pieces well worth spending money on as they can be worn with an array of different looks. For that reason, I’ve found myself gravitating towards the trends that European women are wearing and what styles are really gaining traction across the continent as opposed to quick, fleeting trends.

Wearability and style are always at the top of my mind, and European women have mastered the art of making classic styles feel brand new. But what are they wearing on their feet I hear you ask? Well, this year I’ve found that sporty influences remain firmly in their summer circulation in the form of rope sandals, while flip flops bring the practical yet classic element into the equation for easy, everyday wear. Beaded sandals are a nod to the ongoing boho trend, but have evolved and feel more modern and chic this time around.

So, whether you’re planning a city break or a Mediterranean beach getaway, scroll on to discover five European shoe trends perfect for summer 2026.

1. Red Sandals

Style Notes: Colour and I have an ongoing feud, and I’m somewhat of a neutral obsessive at heart. But, when it comes to summer, all elements of my comfort zone go out of the window as I incorporate colours and prints into my wardrobe for a dose of dopamine. Pops of red have been everywhere this season, but sandals are the style that I’ve fully embraced, and honestly, can’t get enough of. Whether you opt for a heeled iteration or a flat, they're popular now for bringing your look right up to date.

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2. Rope Sandals

Style Notes: We can thank Miu Miu for the resurgence of the rope sandal, and their popularity continues to gain momentum as part of the "gorpcore" trend. This sporty, utilitarian style also has a nod to nautical influences, making the rope sandal a practical choice with a more playful edge.

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3. Flip Flops

Style Notes: Ah, the classic flip-flop. An age-old, timeless style that comes back year after year, and for very good reason. Their simplicity is perfect for minimalists, or ideal for sliding on during heatwaves while still looking put-together. Pair with everything from your most colourful prints to your everyday vest and jeans.

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4. Beaded Sandals

Style Notes: With the boho trend is firmly here to stay, the beaded sandal is certainly a nod to that artisanal energy. Long gone are the days of straw wedges with rainbow beads, this time around hand-embellished sandals feel more modern and polished while also filling us with nostalgia.

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5. Toe Loop

Style Notes: We can thank Zara for those viral toe ring sandals that sparked a sandal trend. And yes, I bought a pair, and have to admit, they are my most worn sandals when I want a more elevated, sleek finish to my look. I love how many different iterations of it we have now and will certainly be investing in more of the hardware-sporting styles that feel like jewellery.

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There’s an old adage that suggests you should always dress for the job you want, not the one you have. But with temperatures soaring high into the 30°s right now in London, I’m co-opting this slightly by dressing for the weather I want, not the weather I have. Doing anything right now feels like a literal chore, let alone pulling together an outfit that can keep me cool whilst looking stylish. Yet, as I stare into the deep void that is my wardrobe and have an existential crisis over everything I’ve ever bought before, Jennifer Lawrence is swanning around New York in the perfect heatwave-proof city summer outfit.

For her latest outing, the actress turned to a few trusted staples, proving that you don’t have to reinvent the wheel when it comes to piecing together a balmy ensemble. (A fitting analogy, given she was riding a bicycle for the majority of this excursion) Taking to the streets, she wore a breezy oversized striped shirt, crepe trousers, both of which are from La Ligne, and a pair of divisive summer shoes.

To know Jennifer Lawrence is to know she always features one eccentric or unexpected element in her outfits. In this case, she ditched the summer shoes du jour, which, for the uninitiated, are either jelly sandals or sleek flip-flops for her go-to pair. The style in question are chunky suede slides from the luxury French footwear and accessories brand, Pierre Hardy. They also feature a silver buckle, which gives them an almost Western flair, despite the only terrain she was traversing being the concrete jungle of Manhattan. (As they say, save a horse, ride a Citi Bike.)

This is the third time Lawrence has been spotted in the flats, meaning they’re either her door shoe, a term that refers to the pair of shoes you keep by your entryway in case of emergencies or can easily slip into to run errands, or she’s working hard to give this once maligned style another chance. You see, these chunky sandals have a reputation for being slightly past their prime. A more unkind read would have people calling them ugly and orthopaedic. However, with Lawrence regularly reaching for them, I have to believe that there’s more to this pair than meets the eye. And with the mercury shooting up by the day, I’m willing to give anything that’s effortless and functional a chance.

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If you've been out and about this summer thus far, and with such hot spells, who hasn't? You will have noticed that one particular shoe has suddenly been on the feet of all of the best dressed women: flip-flops. Granted, flip-flops aren't conversation starters quite like jelly sandals, and no, they aren't particularly a throwback trend like wedge sandals, but something about their pared-back minimalism feels divisive in an era of "more-is-more" maximalism.

Rubber, suede or leather, flip-flops are an easy, everyday style that you can throw on with casual outfits, but if you're looking to level up your summer shoe game, a heeled flip-flop is where it's at. Dressier and more elegant, the slight lift of a low-heel takes the flip-flop from beach shoe to summer in the city, and they feel wholly fresh for the 2020s.

With any heeled sandal it feels obvious to pair them with dresses, but if you're building a summer wardrobe that revolves around separates, you're going to be wondering which trousers and skirts look best. Well, we did the hard work for you and searched through socials to find out which really are the best bottoms to wear with flip-flop heels, and the results may surprise you.

Keep scrolling to see the six outfits that get this fashion editor's stamp of approval, just in time for the next heatwave.

1. Maxi Skirt

Style Notes: Long sleeve tees might be having a moment, but you can't beat a classic white tank for practicality. This easy, versatile base is the foundation for so many great outfits, but Alice's long black skirt [pictured above] manages to make jersey feel anything but basic. Adding a kitten heel flip-flop to this look is exactly the right balance of high/low styling to take the look from day to night at a moment's notice.

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2. Capri Trousers

Style Notes: I'm sorry, we're just not done with capri trousers, and for those who still disparage "pedal pushers", it's only because you haven't found the right pair yet. Take Liv's look [above] as an example. Perfect for evenings abroad, but equally good for weekends at home, in this case her choice of heel (a chic wedge), pair perfectly with cropped trousers that let the shoes do all of the talking.

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3. Wide Leg Trousers

Style Notes: We may have sunshine now, but on the days that the weather gets a little cooler, a light jacket is always a good idea. Windbreakers, waterproofs and zip-ups have been getting a lot of airtime recently, and for very good reason. These casual jackets can be bundled up in your bag and thrown on over your tanks and tees, but Hannah's decision to pair hers with a smarter trouser and a pop-of-colour shoe makes it feel office appropriate and not just weekend attire.

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4. White Jeans

Style Notes: You don't have to wait until summer to wear white jeans, but if you have been looking for a way to style them up, kitten heel flip-flops could be the shoe you've been waiting for. Lorna wears hers with the kind of nautical stripes that wouldn't look out of place on a yacht [pictured above], but you could easily swap a polo for a pretty blouse, cute cardigan or oversized shirt.

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5. Khaki Trousers

Style Notes: Monikh's outfit [above] isn't just a masterclass in colour blocking, it also plays with texture too. Rugged khakis (whether that be linen, denim or cargo trousers), look particularly good offset again smooth, glossy leather, and the colour feels like a warm weather alternative to your everyday denim blues.

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