Whether you’re jetting off to the tropics or staying put in the city, there are endless shoe styles to peruse when your footwear arsenal needs a warm weather zhuzh.
Office days call for commuter-friendly constructions, while weekend weddings allow for something a touch more whimsical. Regardless, it should go without saying that practicality is the foundation of a great pair of summer shoes and, as much as it pains us to admit, comfort shouldn’t be sacrificed for aesthetics - no matter how beautiful the design may be.
In recent years, we have noticed a pattern where a statement shoe tends to go viral each summer and is flung straight to the top of the wishlist of style-savvy consumers. JW Anderson’s Chain Mules once successfully held British fashion editors in a chokehold, while The Attico’s Devon Mules were a longstanding influencer favourite. Ganni’s Leather Flats brought Scandinavian style to the streets of London. Yet, when it comes to the Birkenstock Bostons, the suede craze is enduring.
Summer isn’t quite upon us yet, but a few trends are already emerging. A quick flick through Net-A-Porter or SSENSE will reveal a slew of Y2K denim designs, studded detailing, pistachio colourways and ballet flats.
Sneakers are also a surefire hit - when are they not? For those leaning into comfort-forward pieces, look to cult brands such as Salomon, Adidas and Nike for street style inspiration.
Finally, cowboy boots. We have patiently waited to slip into our treasured Westerns once again. Isabel Marant, Ganni and Paris Texas have pioneered saloon style, bringing their It-girl embroidered silhouettes to the masses.
Footwear sits in the middle of a Venn diagram of function and fashion. Therefore, it’s worth saving up for a pair that does the job and does it well. Higher prices typically indicate better quality and higher levels of craftsmanship - you may just find that you get what you pay for. We’d suggest buying shoes to last a lifetime, not a season.
Embrace summer style in all its glory and discover the best pair of kicks to kick it in. Shop the edit below.
Ganni Red Embroidered Western Boots
When we say, get them before they’re gone, we really mean it here. There’s a reason that Ganni’s cowboy boots are so hard to find, and that’s because they are so wildly popular. These ankle-length Western boots in a cherry hue feature adorable love hearts, a classic cowboy cut and pull tabs for a slip-on experience.
Buy now £625.00, Net-A-Porter
aeyde Gabriella Satin Ballet Flats
The prettiest pair of ballet flats we ever did see, aeyde’s powder blue pumps exude fairytale fantasy.
Buy now £295.00, Net-A-Porter
Mango Denim Ballerinas
Denim shoes are on the up. Killing two trends with one purchase, Mango’s ballerina pumps marry 90s-inspired denim and balletcore themes in a single shoe design.
Buy now £49.99, Mango
Ganni Women's Wide Welt Buckle Leather Flats
Think pink with Ganni. The brand’s viral Buckle Leather Flats merge coquettecore style with punkish details such as buckles and studded eyelets. Pair these blossom editions with some wide-leg jeans for maximum effect.
Buy now £295.00, Coggles
Salomon XT-6 mesh and Rubber Trainers
Salomon’s are topping our footwear wish lists for many reasons. From the slick design to the athletic lattice panels, we want it all. The brand’s ultra-distance running XT-6 trainers are made from lightweight, sage-green mesh upper with resistant TPU film that sits atop an EVA sole. This means the foot is protected from injury and shielded from the mercurial British weather when you’re out and about.
Buy now £160.00, Net-A-Porter
KNWLS Blue Serpent Mules
KNWLS is tapping into the pistachio trend. The British brand’s Serpent Mules feature a statement pointed toe and nonchalant fading throughout.
Buy now £580.00, SSENSE
Vagabond Delia Shoes
Inspired by the timeless design of the modest Mary Jane, Vagabond’s Delia Shoes are an elegant pick for the warmer climate. Team yours with some relaxed 501s and a classic white tee.
Buy now £90.00, Vagabond
Isabel Marant Duerto Cutout Suede Knee-high Boots
Who said cowboy boots were just for summer? Isabel Marant’s beautifully made Western boots will complement any monochrome outfit with ease. Note the Cuban heels and floral topstitched motifs that pepper the shoes with intrigue.
Buy now £795.00, Net-A-Porter
Massimo Dutti Leather Clogs
A welcome take on Birkenstock’s popular Bostons, Massimo Dutti’s leather clogs come in a rich ebony colourway with chic gold buckle detailing to draw the eye.
Buy now £89.95, Massimo Dutti
See By Chloé Blue Joei Slippers
Patchwork, denim and gold hardware culminate in a statement summer shoe. Chloé thrives on boho summer styles, as evidenced by the brand’s covetable footwear collection for spring/summer 2024.
Buy now £305.00, SSENSE
IZIE Port Sandal
A London-based brand founded in 2024 by ex-Parsons alumni Isabella Bowie, IZIE is one to watch. The label’s Port Sandals come in a range of tempting tones and promise cushioning comfort to see you through to the early hours.
Buy now £530.00, IZIE
aeyde Blue Iita Heels
Turn out a true Cinderella moment in aeyde’s Blue Iita Heels, which showcase a sophisticated pale blue tone and a patent finish.
Buy now £345.00, SSENSE
Coperni Logo-Appliquéd Webbing Wedge Flip Flops
Barbiecore has a successor and it’s Bratzcore. Statement 90s footwear, chunky designs and wedged heels are back and better than ever thanks to the universal desire for all things doll at the moment. Coperni’s wedged flip flops offer up a nostalgic twist on the classic sandal, and will take you from day to night with some always welcomed height.
Buy now £285.00, MyTheresa
Stradivarius Flat Cowboy Boots
Slip into a white mini dress and let these cherry red Westerns take centre stage. Both affordable and covetable in equal measure, these puppies are set to sell out. Trust us, it’s not our first rodeo.
Buy now £69.99, Stradivarius
