7 Types of Sandals You'll Be Glad to Have in Your Closet
Every year, summer feels shorter and shorter, so when we finally get the chance to wear high-wasted shorts and blanket dresses, we take it, and continue doing so until we're fully shivering in the fall. Now that we've perfected the at-home pedicure, we're ready to incorporate sandals into our look. Slides, wedges, flip flops — we're big fans of it all, and definitely try to stay on top of all the latest trends, updating our collection every so often.
In reality, though, there are only seven types of sandals that we find ourselves reaching for day after day. Some are fit for fancy occasions while others are more casual, but all of them serve a specific purpose and won't be going out of style anytime soon.
Check out the seven types of sandals that are definitely worth having (and keeping!) in your closet.
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Neutral
And, yes, we're counting metallic as a neutral. These are your everyday sandals — they're flat, simple (nothing too eye-catching here!), include a sling-back strap so they stay put, and seemingly pair well with every outfit. You think you wear them way too much, but they're your old reliables and you're definitely getting your money's worth.
Shop a Pair: See By Chloé Katie Leather Sandals ($335; mytheresa.com)
Slides
These shoes are quick to throw on, whether you're walking the dog or headed to the grocery store, but at the same time, look cute with sundresses and shorts. Plenty of fashion houses sell pairs with their logos, but you can always find an affordable option at fast fashion stores, too.
Shop a Pair: H&M Sandals ($30; hm.com)
Flip Flops
While the fashion world used to label these sandals a big no-no (present company included!), they've re-embraced them for 2020. A colorful pair will pop against your breezy summer outfit, and heeled pairs are loved by celebrities and influencer alike.
Shop a Pair: Sigerson Morrison Iconic Kitten Heel Flip Flop ($120; nordstrom.com)
Chunky
The rise of Teva and Birkenstock sandals have led to the return of thick-soled, velcro, '90s-inspired pairs. They're not for everyone, but we can't help but love the contrast they have against feminine pieces, such as satin midi skirts and puff-sleeve tops. They're casual yet statement-making, all at the same time.
Shop a Pair: Vagabond Lori Sandals ($100; freepeople.com)
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Block Heel
When it comes to summer weddings and date nights, this is the sandal you'll be happy to own. You'll still get the height you crave, but thicker heel provides more support and is easier to wear throughout the night. Plus, there are so many embellished options out there if you crave a little sparkle.
Shop a Pair: Jeffrey Campbell Laura Ankle Strap Sandal ($110; nordstrom.com)
Wedges
We've learned a lot of fashion lessons from Kate Middleton, but perhaps one of the most imporant? Wedges never go out of style. She — along with ladies like Jennifer Aniston and Emily Ratajkowski — has been wearing them for years (she loves a pair from Stuart Weitzman), proving this style looks great with everything from white pants to wrap dresses.
Shop a Pair: Castaner Blaudell Espadrille Wedge Sandals ($190; shopbop.com)
Strappy
We've covered casual, comfortable, and timeless, but sometimes, our outfit calls for sexy — and that's where lace-up shoes come in. There's no doubt that heeled strappy sandles help take a slinky, sleeveless look to a whole new level, while a flat pair is attention-grabbing, even when styled with denim cutoffs.
Shop a Pair: Reformation Porto Sandal ($218; thereformation.com)
