10 Sandal Trends You Need to Bookmark Immediately

Estimated read time4 min read

If you asked me what my most-worn summer footwear is, I’d have to admit it’s probably my favorite sneakers. The comfort, security—and protection—I find they offer while clocking miles on city streets in the sweltering heat is unmatched. Plus, I love how they lend a laid-back, cool factor to any outfit. That said, I’m not immune to the allure of an impeccable sandal (and frankly, as much as I love my sneakers, there are occasions when even my most polished leather pairs simply won’t fly).

I’d also describe my personal style as eclectic, and this season, designers are nicely leaning into that sense of dynamism—offering something for every end of the sartorial spectrum. ’90s minimalist silhouettes, reinvigorated by the hype around Love Story, have reached a fever pitch, alongside a handful of nostalgic classics from the decade reimagined with elevated updates. Meanwhile, maximalists will gravitate toward high-octane clogs and statement heels—the kind of pieces that command attention in any room, as seen at Simone Rocha, Fendi, and Proenza Schouler, to name a few.

And for function-oriented folks like me, there are a few highlights that hit particularly high marks in that department, too. Ahead, the top 10 sandal trends that deserve a spot in your lineup, straight from the spring 2026 runways.


Jelly Sandals

Model walking on runway wearing a stylish outfit with ruffles and holding a unique bag

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Chloé spring/summer 2026

Model walking on a runway wearing a gray suit with a floral accent.

St. Agni

St. Agni spring/summer 2026

Jelly sandals from the ’90s have seen periodic resurgences over the past few years, but this season may mark their chicest return yet. Chloé led the charge with an almost Cinderella-esque PVC heel, while St. Agni debuted slim, clear-strap flip-flops—styled, notably, with tailored suiting. Scroll through the assortment at your favorite retailers, and you’ll find nearly every brand embracing the look, from understated iterations to avant-garde takes that push the category far beyond its iconic fisherman sandal origins (though there are plenty of fresh updates to those, too, if that’s more your speed).

Wedge Sandals

kate barton

Daniele Oberrauch

Kate Barton spring/summer 2026

zimmerman

Salvatore Dragone

Zimmermann spring/summer 2026

Wedge sandals are also getting a refined update from their ’90s heyday. This season’s iterations are set atop slender, stacked heels and rendered in sleek leathers and metallic finishes, with artful details like cutouts and delicate ankle straps. Standout silhouettes include flip-flop hybrids à la Zimmermann, Simkhai, and Kate Barton, as well as sculptural peep-toe takes from labels like Staud and Aeyde that feel just a touch less casual.

Clog Sandals

Moschino

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Moschino spring/summer 2026

simone rocha

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Simone Rocha spring/summer 2026

The humble ’70s-era clog is no longer, well, quite so humble. Maximalist boho sandals are officially in, exuding instant confidence—whether you opt for a chunky, buckled pair reminiscent of Moschino’s towering cork platforms or Simone Rocha’s own bedazzled wood-sole versions (the latter being the kind you could even get away with wearing to more formal events).

Decorative Details

Proenza Schouler

Monica Feudi / Courtesy of Proenza Schouler

Proenza Schouler spring/summer 2026

dior

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Dior spring/summer 2026

A fresh wave of embellished sandals proves that footwear is, indeed, the ultimate statement accessory. Dior delivered heels dressed in wispy fringe and finished with a delicate bow for a decidedly balletcore spin, while Balmain offered chunky, shell-adorned flats that have us dreaming of tropical getaways. At Proenza Schouler, floral appliqué kitten heels read more Big Bird than rose garden (in the best way possible). We love the idea of using them to add a striking twist to polished separates, though they work just as beautifully paired with pieces that lean into the same aesthetic.

Trusty Stompers

miu miu

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Miu Miu spring/summer 2026

Xu Zhi PO

Courtesy of Xu Zhi//LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT

Xu Zhi spring/summer 2026

A thick, strappy sandal that keeps your feet secure throughout the day is always an easy option to reach for. Chunky crossband or high-vamp styles also lend the perfect hint of androgyny to a wardrobe and can be styled effortlessly with everything from loose-fitting trousers to dainty sundresses.

T-Strap Sandals

Bitu S26

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Bitu spring/summer 2026

A La Garconne S26

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A La Garconne spring/summer 2026

If you prefer a barely-there aesthetic, consider the T-strap sandal—a style once favored by Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. For an ultra-minimal look, opt for a version with a simple front band and ankle strap, or try something a bit strappier and chunkier (perhaps with a heel) for added security and versatility. As seen on the spring/summer 2026 catwalk, Bitu’s bright red, asymmetrical take feels especially modern.

Ankle Strap Sandals

celine s26

Courtesy of Celine

Celine spring/summer 2026

Model walks the runway wearing a floral dress

Umberto Fratini

La Koradior spring/summer 2026

Embrace the vacation mindset with a pair of ankle-strap sandals, which can easily work in the city when paired with sharper pieces. Whether you go for a delicate lace-up style or one with adjustable buckles, they’re a surprisingly practical choice for humid afternoons.

Elegant Leather Flip-Flops

fforme

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Fforme spring/summer 2026

bottega veneta

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Bottega Veneta spring/summer 2026

Also in line with the minimalist boom of recent seasons, refined leather flip-flops continue to dominate. From Fforme’s super-slim black pairs that barely separate the wearer from the ground to Bottega Veneta’s breezy all-white styles, today’s effortlessly pared-back iterations prove the once beach-relegated staple can work for a wide range of occasions (and serve as the perfect finishing touch to an equally streamlined ensemble).

Ancient Influences

ss26

Carlo Scarpato

J. Salinas spring/summer 2026

roberto cavalli

paolo lanzi

Roberto Cavalli spring/summer 2026

While ’70s, ’90s, and early 2000s-inspired aesthetics continue to cycle back into the zeitgeist, some designers are looking much further into the past for inspiration. Ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Greek references permeated spring/summer 2026 collections—from J. Salinas’s knee-high gladiator sandals to gilded snake hardware slithering up the foot at Roberto Cavalli, which were paired with flowing, Cleopatra-esque gowns. For a more unexpected take on the classic gladiator, Khaite’s new thick leather strap silhouette is an instant add to cart.

Cool Colorblocking

fendi

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Fendi spring/summer 2026

chloe

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Chloé spring/summer 2026

Perhaps the most novel (and feel-good) trend of the moment, colorblock sandals channel a sense of childlike abandon—only now, through a grown-up lens. Fendi proved primary colors are back in the mix with intricately braided, fabric-detailed slingbacks, while Chloé made a case for rich jewel tones in high-shine finishes. We have a feeling this vibrant trend will quickly become a knockout in the months ahead—consider this your cue to get in on it early.


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