The six styles of sandal you need this summer
I write this with feet rubbed raw after walking 22,147 steps in new sandals, and 26 tabs open on my computer with alternative options that might see me through the summer with my toes intact. It’s all glamour here.
What those tabs have taught me over the past few hours is that it’s time to admit that there is no one sandal solution. True, it can hardly seem worth shelling out for multiple pairs when the season is fleeting and August can call as much for wellies as flip-flops (personally, I’m against the latter in all circumstances). But this summer, we’re set to be graced with a heatwave so it could just be the time to nail your sandal repertoire once and for all.
Here are the definitive six I’ve whittled it down to...
1. The modernist
This is the most 2018 of sandals – think square toes, interesting leather twists and sculptural heels. Many of the best ones are by small labels, such as Loq and By Far.
Loq square-toe, £260, Harvey Nichols
2. The espadrille
There’s a trick to finding right-for-now espadrilles – focus on lacing rather than glitzy bits. Next is great on the high street, while Castañer has been perfecting its since 1927.
Espadrille, £38, Next
3. The barely there
Beautifully pared-back and with the capacity to go with anything, these are for anyone who’s unsure of sandals; Penelope Chilvers and Ancient Greek Sandals have chic, artisanal options.
Leather, £120, Ancient Greek Sandals
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4. The mule
These have become a modern classic, so they’ll feel right for a few summers yet, and be the perfect antidote to spindly heels if you’re dressing up.
Mule, £165, Aeydē
5. The sporty
If we’re agreed on avoiding flip-flops, what does one wear around the pool? Slides are both comfortable and fashion-y (#goals).
Adidas slides, £29.99, Office
6. The chunky
These are your city sandals. They need to keep your feet protected, but still work well with dresses, jumpsuits or laid-back tailoring. If you can walk thousands of steps in them too, that really is the dream.
Flatform, £129, Kurt Geiger
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