Six months ago, the S/S 21 collections wowed us with their fresh batch of shoe trends, and now that the season's deliveries have finally hit the market, the wait to wear all the new-season newness is over. While in certain parts of the country, sandal season is still wishful thinking, we're of the mind that it's never too soon to start discussing, planning, and shopping for the season ahead. This is why we've turned our attention to the biggest sandal trends to emerge from the runways.
Whether it be intricate details like toe-ring ties or throwback silhouettes like cushy padded thongs, we studied the spring collections and discovered the following six overarching sandal styles that we're predicting will make a big impact during the warmer months ahead. To see and shop each trend, keep scrolling.
Who else remembers those platform flip-flops from the early 2000s? These are like the elevated version of those retro sandals with cushy soles and extra-wide straps.
Shop the trend:
Ready to get lifted? Flatform sandals—especially those with lace-up ties and espadrille soles—are soaring into the spotlight with notable versions from Ulla Johnson and Altuzarra that will pair perfectly with all your floaty summertime frocks.
Shop the trend:
We spotted this trend on the S/S 2021 runways at ACNE Studios, Khaite, and plenty of others, which tells me that it's one to watch. With elements like complicated straps and asymmetrical cutouts, no one will be able to take their eyes off of these.
Shop the trend:
It's confirmed: Chunky sandals are here to stay. The spring runways were littered with sporty Velcro sandals (fashion's take on elevated Tevas) with updates like colorful fabrics and whimsical embellishments.
Shop the trend:
Exaggerated square-toe sandals were another consistent theme we noticed throughout the spring/summer collections and seeing as this trend isn't necessarily new, this your official notice that it's not time to phase out the silhouette just yet.
Shop the trend:
How could we forget house slippers? These cozy flats are what kept us the most comfortable last year, and they’re about to serve their purpose all the way through 2021 as well with luxurious updates like faux fur and pretty pastel tones.
Shop the trend:
Up next, I'm a minimalist at heart and these are the five trends of 2021 I'll try first.
-
You Had Me at 50% Off—25 Chic Gap Sale Finds That Will Be Instant Summer Closet StaplesOne step closer to effortless outfits.
-
These Are the Only Pairs of Dressy Flat Sandals That Matter for Summer 2025Time to ditch the loafers and ballerinas (for now).
-
29 Fashionable Flip-Flops You Can Confidently Ditch All Your Other Sandals ForIf you can't beat them, join them.
-
7 Summer Basics You Can Wear All Season Without Getting BoredElevated closet staples.
-
Overnight, These Became Fashion's Most Wanted Sandals for Summer 2025The Row lovers, listen up.
-
Boring Sandals Are So 2024—This Summer, Even Minimalists Are Playing Around With Fun FootwearBeads, hardware, and more.
-
8 Pieces That Are the Secret Sauce to an Incredibly Chic Summer Outfit RotationGetting ready just got so much easier.
-
Spotted in London: The Dressy Sandal Trend to Wear With Pants Instead of Ballet Flats RNCelebrity approved.
