June 21, 2017 |
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We've had embellished flip flops, gladiator flats, and jelly shoes, but this is the year that summer sandals go low key. From the return of 90s stalwarts such as espadrilles and mules, to the paring back of metallic sandals and the unstoppable rise of the slider – when it comes to summer footwear, less is definitely more.
Read on for our pick of the best women's sandals for 2017...
Slider Sandals
Sporty sliders have been an Instagram favourite for a couple of years now, but recently there has been an influx of prettier versions – think metallics, multi-textures, bows, ruffles and embellishments. These rose gold ruffled Steve Madden flat sandals are pioneers of these 'new look' sliders, and they look way more expensive than they actually are.Wear with... a Seafolly swimsuit and shorts
Normcore Sandals
As with most low-key trends, this one started in Scandinavia. The normcore look has been creeping back into fashion over the past few years, and long may it continue – by stripping back all the embellishments and quirks, this trend inadvertently focuses on comfort. You could walk in these Birkenstock sandals for days without getting sore feet, and because the design is so simple, you can literally wear Arizona sandals with anything. Look for unpretentious sandals in muted tones, with wide straps and no fancy details.Wear with... denim, khaki, or a plain-coloured maxi skirt
Espadrille sandals
Espadrilles are an easy way to give your sandals a bit of height, without sacrificing the laid-back vibe of the summer. These Michael Kors flatform sandals will add at least an inch to your stature, but the woven espadrille sole and normcore leather straps keep the look casual and on-trend. Plus, they are basically the only 'high' sandals that you can comfortably wear on the beach.Wear with... a pretty sundress
Mule sandals
Mules are not the sort of shoes you wear if you're in a rush to get somewhere. Famously hard to walk in, they’re more of a cocktail shoe for summer parties. So why not go all-out and choose a super-luxe pair? These velvet Carvela mule sandals are brilliantly impractical and hit a lot of trends at once. Just don't try to run for the bus when you're wearing them.Wear with... a midi skirt or summery dress
Metallic sandals
Metallic sandals are nothing new, but for 2017, the glamorous sheen has come off them slightly. So look out for muted tones of gunmetal, bronze and copper, or high-shine silver as part of an otherwise plain design. If these Vero Moda sandals were made from black or brown leather, they'd be pretty unremarkable, but metallic silver is used to give them a modern update. Let the sandals pop by keeping the rest of your outfit relatively plain and casual.Wear with... knee-length shorts or a denim skirt and faded t-shirt
