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10 best summer sandals for women

From pom pom-embellished flats to block-heeled beauties, we find footwear to see you through the warmer months

Monday 14 November 2016 15:39 GMT

It’s officially sandal season (well, when it’s not raining, that is). Either way, the onset of summer is a great excuse to invest in new shoes and trade in those ankle boots for a breathable pair of sandals that will see you through to September. From slides to sling backs and high-end to High Street, we’ve scoured the stores to bring you our picks of the season. Pedicures at the ready…

1. Topshop Verse Western Heeled Sandals: £56, Topshop

Love cowboy boots? Well, these western-inspired sandals are the summer version. The silver stud detailing and double buckle hardware is super on-trend and the low block heel will see you through the office to happy hour. They’re also made from 100 per cent leather and the cross-over strap makes for a comfy and secure fit. These work just as well with skinny jeans as they do with a summer dress.

2. Zara Pompom Leather Sandals: £49.99, Zara

Artisanal-style sandals are set to be the shoe of the season so get ready to embrace pom poms, tassels and braids on your feet. This pair from Zara is a really fun way to liven up an outfit with colourful pom pom detail in yellow, blue, purple and red. The lace-up fastening can be worn layered around the ankle or taken up the length of your calf.

3. Office Dance Bow Mule: £62, Office

The Gucci slipper is certainly one of fashion’s must-have shoes of the moment but we can’t all afford the hefty price tag. This pair of off-white, leather mules are a much cheaper yet equally as stylish alternative that will take you through the Summer and even into Autumn. A modern take on a masculine style, they come with an oversized bow and subtle square detail on the toe and the open back means they can be easily slipped on and off. Team yours with a blouse and skinny jeans for fuss-free style.

4. Michael Kors Darby Leather Sandals: £195, Net-a-Porter

Gladiator sandals have been around for a while and it doesn’t look like they’re going out of fashion any time soon so why not invest in a pair that will last? These are both stylish and practical with smooth black leather strapping and a structured panel that zips up to prevent any unwanted slipping. We love the double buckle detailing, which adds a rock ‘n’ roll edge.

5. Mango Knots Flat Sandals: £19.99, Mango

Slides are a step up, fashion-wise, from flip flops but still give that beach-ready look. We like the trio of decorative knots on this pair that are available in nude or what Mango calls “Night Blue” - a navy, nude, white and summery yellow combo.

6. Cos Slingback sandals: £79, Cos

It can be tricky to find a pair of office-appropriate summer shoes and when the heat kicks in you sometimes need a little relief from heels or tight-laced brogues. These sleek, minimalist-looking slingbacks are ideal to go with midi skirts or cropped trousers. The elasticated slingback provides a secure fit, and they’re smart enough to work for day-to-night as a chic alternative to heels.

7. Whistles Luma Ankle Strap Sandal: £175, Whistles

If you want to make a statement with your footwear, then this suede orange pair will do the trick. The classic design features an easy-to-wear block heel, slender toe strap and a buckle fastening that sits at the most flattering point on your ankle, while the foot bed is padded for lasting comfort. We reckon you’ll be looking for any excuse to wear them, whether it’s to the beach, the bar or the boardroom.

8. Woven Lace Up Espadrilles: £19.99, New Look

Espadrilles are a summer staple, and we’re fans of this open-toe pair in a pretty mint green. They have lace-up ties, a woven front and that classic braided sole has a rubber bottom for grip. They also come in black and white and we think they look best when paired with a dress to really show of the ankle ties.

9. Asos Tick Tock Clog Sandals: £32, Asos

The clog seems to reinvent itself every summer and this time around, the 70s influence is strong. This pair of chunky sandals are a cool take on the traditional silhouette and manage to provide height without sacrificing comfort. The flatform-style heel means they’re super-easy to walk in, too. Wear paired with a billowing dress to really tap into that 70s vibe.

10. Marks and Spencer Leather Slingback Sandals: £45, Marks and Spencer

If you’re one of those girls who insist on wearing black all year round, opt for a ritzy-looking sandal to keep things interesting. This faux snakeskin pair are a classic shape with a slingback, discreet heel and buckle fastening, but the animal-print design and chrome heel insert gives them fashion points. They’re available in half sizes and M&S’s clever Insolia Flex technology helps make them a super-comfy pair.

Verdict

The summertime brings with it endless opportunities to wear sandals and our favourites have to be Topshop’s Western option. They’re completely effortless in both style and function with enough panache to make a fashion statement while retaining their wearability with a classic low block heel. If you’re looking for an instant mood-booster though, we’d suggest opting for Zara’s decorated boho pair.