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Classic sandals are the crown jewels in any spring and summer wardrobe. Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist at heart, there’s no denying the power of anchoring an outfit with a timeless shoe. Of course, it can be hard to unearth the best styles, especially with the influx of here-today, gone-tomorrow trends.
The trick to ensuring you don’t end up with buyer’s remorse is to look for lasting silhouettes in high-quality leather that only get better with age. At the most luxe end of the scale, there are The Row’s effortless flip-flops, which are the epitome of quiet luxury, thanks to their easy-to-slip-on silhouette and expertly crafted design. On the other side of the price spectrum, there are the beloved double-buckle Birkenstocks and Madewell’s asymmetric T-strap sandals. And lucky for us all, the more affordable finds don’t sacrifice on style or quality.
Vogue’s Ultimate Classic Sandals Guide:
- The Flip-Flop: Staud Freja leather flip flops, $195
- The Thong Sandal: Mango wedge leather sandals, $140
- The Modern Mule: Aeyde Jeanie leather mules, $425
- The Strappy Sandal: Khaite Loop flat beaded sandal, $890
- The Classic Slide: Birkenstock Arizona slide sandal, $150
- The T-Strap: Madewell Maycie asymmetric t-strap sandal, $118
- The Fisherman: Emme Parsons Ernest leather sandals, $550
- The Block Heel: Gucci Horsebit sandal, $920
- The Wedge: Tory Burch Gigi leather wedge sandals, $378
- The Investment Find: The Row City calfskin flip flop sandals, $890
Other contemporary labels that have mastered the art of the timeless warm-weather shoe include Emme Parsons, A.Emery, and Loulou de Saison—all of which offer cool strappy styles that look great with midiskirts and maxidresses. And don’t forget about the heels! Block heels and wedges have enduring appeal, and our edit features a number of favorites you’ll wear over and over again. For all the classic sandals that deserve a spot in your lineup, keep scrolling.
Flip-Flops
What flip-flops may lack in ankle support, they make up for in style points. For a beach option, it doesn’t get better than a pair of Havaianas—opt for its new square shape if you already own the original. And if you’re an Olsen fan, a pair of The Row flip flop’s will always be a good investment.
T-Strap Sandals
Don’t call it a thong sandal or flip-flop! The T-strap deserves its own place in the sun. Some of the best ones come with ankle straps for more walking support (see: Neous, Proenza Schouler, and Loulou de Saison). Other fun options include a striking red pair from Aeyde, and a crisp white flat from Jil Sander.
The Strappy Sandal
The only bind these strappy sandals present is which one to buy—the more the merrier for a big seasonal refresh! For a more boho vibe, opt for Saint Laurent’s gladiator style. If you’re looking for something that has a more city feel, Khaite and Manolo Blahnik’s styles are chic and just right for everyday dressing.
Slides
Criss-cross, macramé, cut-out leather straps—there’s no shortage of slip-on-and-go slides on the market right now, whether you want something pared-back for work, or crave texture for vacation. The puffy leather straps on St. Agni’s chocolate brown pair would add nice depth to a white dress outfit, while Loewe’s criss-cross “belt” take is perfecting for toning down loosely tailored summer trousers.
Fisherman Sandals
Not really a loafer, nor a traditional open-toe shoe, the fisherman sandal is a versatile option that’s great for transitional dressing; pair it with a colorful sock in between spring and summer (or summer and fall). Ancient Greek Sandals’s jelly take feels intentionally playful with cotton poplin skirts, whereas Emme Parsons’s and Hereu’s classic styles feel like they belong to another time—in the best way.
Block-Heeled Sandals
Marrying comfort with style, block-heeled sandals are primed for dinner dates, polished office looks, and wedding guest attire. Gucci’s black open-toe sandal is simple and elegant, as is Jimmy Choo’s modern take.
Wedge Sandals
The wedge sandal is back, baby! Embrace the look with a minimalist style from Alaïa or Zara. Already a devotee? Maryam Nassir Zadeh and Saint Laurent’s unique takes are street style-ready.
Mules
There are plenty of mules to covet this season, from animal print finds from Paris Texas, to croc-embossed chocolate brown options from J.Crew. The versatility proof is in the pudding with these—where them with everything from breezy white dresses to baggy bootcut denim.
Heeled Thong Sandals
While we adore a flat, easy shoe, we also can’t help but to note the cool-girl factor in a heeled thong sandal. Equally as comfortable, this casual-meets-outing must-have looks so good with our spring favorites: slip dresses, sheer skirts, and poplin skirts.
