“Barely-There” Sandals Are the New Stiletto

Strappy, ’90s-style heels and sandals are now making a play for a place in summer wardrobes. Ruling runways and proving skin is in, “barely-there” footwear is a versatile investment: it can be worn during the day with low-key bohemian dresses and wide-leg jeans, or elevated with a black cocktail dress at night. Here are seven styles (at a range of price points) that make a case for spaghetti straps on your feet.

Maria Farro, Aelia sandal –$179
Handmade in Crete in Greece, Australian designer Maria Farro’s footwear balances contemporary design with traditional techniques. Founded on Sydney’s Bondi and made using chemical-free natural leather, this sophisticated but relaxed flat can carry your look from the beach to the city.

Isabel Marant, Amspee crystal-embellished suede sandals – $708 (40 per cent off)
French fashion designer Isabel Marant – famous for her Parisian-style bohemian prints and unpretentious aesthetic – has given the barely-there trend a crystal-embellished makeover, making it a dressier option this party season. These sandals were part of the closing look in her autumn 2018 show and are made in Italy from soft black suede. They feature a comfortable padded sole to justify the 95-millimetre stiletto heel. They add a bit of glitz to any casual outfit and update a black-tie gown.

Zimmermann, kitten sandal – $425
Australian womenswear label Zimmermann has released a nude, strappy sandal as part of its resort-swim 2019 collection to complement its printed summer dresses. Bridging the gap between a kitten heel and a sandal, this leather design gives you a tiny bit of height without looking too dressy.

Neous, Venus Faille sandals – $763

Australian-born London-based designers Vanissa Antonious and Alan Buanne’s label is gaining traction around the world for its minimalist yet playful signature style.

These mules (made in Italy) are a chunkier option if spindly heels aren’t your caper. The minimalist design and strappy finish balance well with the sharp, square toe, a trademark of the label.

Prada, patent-leather sandals – $550
These ’90s-style flats in shiny patent leather are a classic from this Italian fashion house that return season after season. They’re expensive for flat shoes, but these will last a lifetime and won’t go out of fashion. The T-bar strap design accentuates the square-toe and lets skin do the talking. Wear with a simple maxi dress or jeans.

The Row, bare leather sandals – $1136

While this style retails for a hefty $1136, it would be remiss to report on the strappy footwear movement without including the US label that helped pioneer it. These cult sandals by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen come in white leather with gossamer-thin straps and a subtle heel you can stride around in all day. Take your cues from Net-a-Porter’s buying team (which was seen at fashion weeks across New York, London, Milan and Paris wearing them).

A. Emery, Lola leather sandal – $129,95
These minimalist, versatile sandals are a no-brainer for summer because they will fit seamlessly into any holiday wardrobe; the simple design won’t fight your outfit. Designed in Melbourne and handcrafted in India, A. Emery footwear is the perfect addition to a timeless wardrobe.