With Memorial Day Weekend upon us, the unofficial start to summer is here! Summer is my favorite season - mostly because of the weather - but also because but mostly because life just seems to soften a little this time of year. And this summer is going to be one for the books as we prepare to welcome our daughter into our family. I still can’t believe I am typing those words!
In the world of fashion, shoes have always been my absolute favorite part of getting dressed. And even though fall is probably the best season for fashion, I think summer is the best for shoes. Below is a guide on the best sandals in every category I could think of and my favorites that are currently in the market. I’m also sharing my summer sandal lineup to share my honest opinions on what I’ve tried. And I’ll wrap this post with roundup of my favorite white dresses, which are a summer staple in my book.
Best of My Personal Collection
Best Casual & Comfortable: Birkenstocks
There’s a reason these have stood the test of time. If I were purchasing new ones this year, I’d probably still get the classic Arizona style.
Best 10K Steps Approved: Reformation Ludo Sandals
This will be my third summer with both pairs of these - ivory and black. I was skeptical that the toe loop would be comfortable, but it certainly is. I’m happy walking all day in these. They’re casual enough for shorts and a tank but polished enough with a dress.
Best Elevated Flat Sandals: Jamie Haller Double Buckle
I bought these last summer and they are worth every penny. I love the buckles on these for an elevated touch. She isn’t offering this exact style at the moment, but the ones linked are very similar (just with a heel strap). Most sizes are sold out, but sign up for back in stock notifications because they sell out quickly.
Best Brown Sandal: Deia Woven
I knew I liked these on the website, but they are even better in person. I was shocked at how comfortable these were the first time I put them on. The leather is so soft and luxe - they don’t need to be worn in at all. Margaux’s soles have more cushion than you’d expect and the woven texture is really beautiful.
Best Flip Flops: Tkees Lily Flip Flops
These are the best bang for your buck. The best minimal, comfortable, elevated flip flop. Like the Ludos, I love them so much I have them in two colors (black and au naturale).
Best Wrap Around the Ankle: Palermo Sandals
Another gem from Margaux - more comfortable than you’d expect. The strap around the ankle is also really comfortable. I’ve heard people say these are 10k steps approved. I’d probably say between 5-7k is where I might cap them, but that’s pretty darn good if you ask me! I shared about these last week and I’m glad to see you all love the look of these too!
Best Heels: Brown Pradas from The Real Real
I’ve gotten lucky a few times finding great deals on shoes on TRR. I really like having a good brown heeled sandal - I think they feel less dressy than black so they are super versatile. These are similar!
An elevated, everyday sandal is my go-to for summer. I like having a flip flop/slide (something that doesn’t require tying or buckling) as well as something a little more strappy.
Don’t underestimate the power of brown to give depth to and soften an outfit. Most shades of brown are gorgeous with black and white as well as red, blue, yellow, pink, green, and most shades in between.
A beautiful heeled sandal can completely change the feeling of a summer outfit. Right now I’m prioritizing comfort, but these are the pairs I’d reach for for weddings, dinners, and summer events.
If you’re in the market for a pop of color, a sandal is a really fun way to bring that color to your outfit without overcommitting. I love the idea of going with a primary color - especially in a classic silhouette like a thong flip flop, or a fisherman or t-strap sandal. And if you’re up for trying the paracord trend, I think these are the best I’ve seen. And P.S. LOQ is doing a 25% off sale for MDW and it includes the sandals above! Use code: SPRING25. And Freda Salvador is doing running a 15% off promotion on sandals right now (no code needed).
The Dress Edit: White Dresses
To go along with all of these great sandals, here are five white dresses that are perfect for summer. After all, other than being a guest at a wedding, a white dress can be worn nearly any day for nearly anything - whether you’re at home or traveling.
I have to say - these images don’t really do the dresses justice. Click through to see the details!
Dress 1 - the kind of throw-on-and-go white dress that still feels chic.. I love Xirena for that casual, comfortable, California ease look.
Dress 2 - 100% linen, chic and versatile to wear day or evening. This would be so great to travel with because you can easily do flats for day or heels for dinner.
Dress 3 - classic shirt dress, great for a summer lunch on the patio, endlessly timeless. Feels like something you’d wear for years without ever getting tired of it.
Dress 4 - gorgeous detailing and perfect for any event that isn’t wedding related (unless you’re the bride!). If you are the bride - maybe a dress for a shower!
Dress 5 - This brand (WNU) is new to me and I love the linen dresses they are showing. The one in the image is the Sloane (comes in red and and black too) and I love the deep V, but they also have a style called the Jackie that is a higher crew neck. And the Blenheim looks incredible for a maxi style (white and black). All three of these dresses are 100% linen and lined with 100% cotton, so I presume that will take care of any sheerness concerns.
If you’re looking for more summer dresses, check out the posts linked below. I still can’t stop thinking about this one!
Whether you’re staying put or heading out of town, I hope you have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend! Cheers to a lovely summer ahead!
xo,
Abby
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I love my tkees!!
Nice round up of sandals and dresses. I love the Jamie Haller sandals. I have a couple pair. There are the best.