33 Sandals for Chic Days, Balmy Nights and Everything In Between This Summer

There’s no denying the power of a great pair of sandals. When you find “the one”, you hold on tight. Comfort is key – there’s arguably nothing worse than hot, swollen feet in summer – but that doesn’t mean compromising on style. Whether you’re after beach-ready slides or an office-appropriate pair, consider the search over. Here are 33 of this season’s best from our favourite local and international labels.

The thong revival

Sometimes less really is more. If European summer is anything to go by, Australia is on the brink of its own humble Havaiana renaissance. The flip-flop has found fresh footing in the style stakes, with the Brazilian icon stepping beyond its signature silhouette. Square-toed updates lend polish to the once-laid-back classic.

The newest iterations also nod to the jelly shoe revival. Christopher Esber’s sleek pair has already cemented itself as the cult buy of the season, while St Agni and Ancient Greek Sandals offer slightly more accessible takes on the trend. Beyond the dessert-inspired finishes – and the style’s rubber beginnings – thongs are having a glow-up, reimagined in soft, sculptural leather. A Emery’s Kinto channels minimalist perfection, Nelson Made’s sculptural Otto arrives in a rich wine hue, and Maria Farro toughens its footwear with silver hardware – like your sandal just got its ears pierced.

Nautical knots

Rope sandals have officially sailed back into favour. Once reserved for beach holidays and market strolls, the latest iterations of this nautical-inspired style have stepped into city life – with colour very much onboard. Miu Miu’s runway version set the tone, while Bassike brings a burst of cobalt blue and Alias Mae goes moodier in plum.

There are classic black options too. St Agni’s leather-trimmed pair skews minimalist, while sportier takes from Melissa and Teva combine traditional knots with cushioned soles built for all-day wear.

Hook-and-loop heavyweights

The rise of the “ugly chic” shoe has seen velcro-clad styles become a wardrobe mainstay over the past few summers. And this trend shows no signs of waning. There’s the classic Teva – the midform sole offers subtle elevation and extra cushion. Suicoke’s Depa V2 silhouette delivers utility-chic vibes. And Melbourne brand Merry People’s Lochie sandal features a comfy, moulded arch support for any long stints on your feet.

If you’re looking for a more pared-back approach, Keen swaps velcro for woven cord with its Uneek style. All of Post Sole’s pairs are made-to-order; the Trail Hiker comes in a classic black hue made from leather or vegan leather. And Camper delivers its sculptural Kobarah style in vibrant hues this season.

Fisherman’s friends

Brought to the fashion forefront by The Row a few seasons ago, the timeless appeal of the fisherman sandal has elevated it from grandpa-chic status to an everyday essential. And while the New York brand’s craftsmanship is obvious, a month’s rent is a lot to drop on a pair of shoes. Luckily, there are more bank-balance-friendly alternatives to try this season. Rollie makes a style in five finishes. Aere offers a similar profile with a brown leather sole. Melbourne brand Radical Yes crafts its Arkestra silhouette with recycled leather in green, orange, brown and black. After something slender? Check out these takes on the trend by Hereu and Edie Collective. 

Minimalist magic

Sleek straps are a go-to for summer soirees. There’s a reason that A Emery’s timeless styles surface season after season – and this summer we’re choosing the Cyrus. Studio Amelia offers a barely-there design as the perfect alternative to heels for summer occasions, and Vagabond’s ankle-wrapping pair takes things up a notch, Gladiator-style.

Slides are also welcome here. Elka Collective adds texture with its knotted Remy. Rollie Nation does its soft leather style in black, brown, gold and tangerine finishes. Assembly Label’s Kyah has a suede double strap and Dof Studios adds grip with its criss-cross toe detailing in its Selena style. 

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