The Chic Summer Shoe Edit: What to Wear When the Temperature Rises
Summer dressing is all about looking effortlessly put-together, and the right pair of shoes can completely transform an outfit. Whether you're heading to brunch, walking around the city, or dressing up for a summer night out, there’s a shoe for every occasion. This season, forget about choosing between comfort and style, these are the pairs that give you both.
Ballet Flats: The It-Girl Essential
Ballet flats have officially escaped the classroom and become a summer wardrobe staple. Pair a classic black or cream pair with straight-leg jeans and a simple tank for an effortlessly polished look, or style them with a flowy midi skirt for something more feminine. For a little more personality, try a pair with bows, mesh detailing, or a fun color.
Jelly Shoes: A Little Nostalgia
Jelly shoes are having their moment again, bringing a playful, nostalgic twist to summer outfits. Their slightly unexpected look makes them perfect for keeping a simple outfit interesting. Style them with denim shorts and a fitted tee, or wear them with a sundress for a more playful take on summer dressing.
Wedges: The Summer Staple
Few shoes feel more summery than a good wedge. They instantly make an outfit feel more elevated while still keeping that relaxed vacation feel. Espadrille wedges look especially chic with linen pants, maxi dresses, or a simple white sundress. Wedges are the perfect trick to nailing a pop of color or a cool accessorized piece blended into summer tones. Think effortless Mediterranean summer, even without actually having to leave town.
Fashion Fact: Wedges were popularized by Italian designer Salvatore Ferragamo in the 1930s, when shortages of traditional shoe materials inspired him to experiment with cork (cork wood, like in wine bottles). His innovative cork wedge became a defining shoe of the era and helped establish the wedge as a stylish alternative to the traditional high heel.
Strappy Sandals: never Keep It Simple
Kitten Heels: Tiny Heel, Major Impact
If you want something dressier without committing to a towering heel, kitten heels are the answer. Their low, delicate heel makes them perfect for everything from dinner to a summer event. Try a pointed-toe pair with tailored trousers, or style a strappy version with a simple slip dress.
Sometimes the simplest shoe makes the biggest statement. A barely-there strappy sandal works with practically everything in your closet, from denim to dresses. Metallics, neutrals, and soft colors are especially easy to style and instantly make an outfit feel more polished.
Flip flops: ultimate misleading name
Flip-flops are the ultimate summer classic, perfect for days when you want your outfit to feel effortless and easy. While they’re often associated with beach days and poolside looks, elevated versions can be styled with everything from flowy dresses and linen pants to denim shorts and a simple tank. Try a leather or minimal pair for a more polished look, or choose a fun color or detail like studs or charms to make them stand out. Sometimes, the chicest summer outfit is the one that looks like you didn’t try too hard.
Here’s my tip: I did my research so you don't have to, I asked 25 people walking around NYC where they find their holy-grail flip-flops, and the secret answer? Depop. One anonymous fashionista told us, “Why spend $300 on a designer flip-flop while Depop exists? All the coolest vintage finds and even DIYs are there. I have this one pair from Old navy I think and this girl on Depop stuck on studs and gems with all this funky stuff. It’s awesome and so not what you see every two seconds, ya know?” Honestly, she has a point. From vintage gems to one-of-a-kind finds, Depop might just be the place to find your next summer shoe obsession. We thank you random FIT student for your help.
The takeaway
The best summer shoes are the ones that make getting dressed feel easy and fun. Whether you're a ballet-flat girl, a devoted wedge wearer, or ready to bring jelly shoes back into your wardrobe, there’s no reason your shoes can't be the best part of your outfit. After all, summer style is about looking chic without looking like you tried too hard, and the right shoes do exactly that.