In Search of Summer Shoes That Aren't Sandals or Sneakers
You make a niche request. You get 19 niche recommendations.
I, for the record, wear both sandals and sneakers all summer long. But one particular reader, asked for a summer shoe recommendation that was neither and it got me thinking. It got me researching and asking you all and digging into the back of my closet.
Summers in New York City, the summers I’ve become accustomed to over the past eleven years, are true tests of one’s closet. You can leave your flimsy sandals at home. And a wedge is a cute idea until it gets caught in a grate. My preference is hearty shoes that last season after season. Many of these shoes can be purchased secondhand—I’ve done it—but for simplicity’s sake, just like my sneaker letter from last year, they’ll all be new.
The goal? To get you inspired to think beyond your sneakers and sandals and bring some of your less-easily-categorized shoes with you into the warmer months.
Palma Green Sabah ($210)
I have been obsessed with these shoes for a solid five years at this point. I’ve come so close to ordering pairs for me and my husband, but always find a reason not to. This summer will be different. I’m picturing waltzing into their darling store downtown after a mocktail outside somewhere and picking out pairs in colors that’ll bring us joy for years to come. Bonus: This shoe only looks better when worn in.
Outfit idea: Frayed denim shorts, Coke in a glass bottle, and a secondhand prairie top.
Red Clogs ($184)
A summer clog should be easy to clean and ideally sprinkler-proof. These are my perfect red and come with some pretty compelling reviews on Etsy. You can also order them in another color if red’s not your thing.
Outfit idea: Pink dress and basket bag with Set Piece poking out.
Rothy’s The Almond Slingback ($139)
What you actually thought I wouldn’t include a pair of Rothy’s? Get real! I wear mine ALL summer long and wash them at least once per summer. Sometimes I wear them on the beach, which is a mistake, but, again, nothing the washer can’t fix. The slingback style is a sleeper hit IMO, especially if you’re dressing up some work outfits.
Outfit idea: Vintage striped overalls and an almond croissant from L'Appartement 4F.
Loeffler Randall Raina Caramel/Black Mesh Flat ($250)
These are my idea of chic water shoes. And I’m actually quite out on mesh, but I know some of you love mesh shoes, so I included a few I’d let slide: including these! I think the sole toughens them up in a way that really works.
Outfit idea: Tiny sequin skirt, the white tee you wear with everything, and a cigarette AS A PROP.
Plasticana Gardana Clogs ($68)
This is a
pick. I’ve seen her wear them on dog walks for years and in the past few summers, have spotted them on the feet of some stylish Brooklynites, too. Try them on in person because the sizing is a little tricky.Outfit idea: A PJ set, the NYT crossword, and a hot coffee.
Patent Leather Clogs ($62)
I think Gayle King wears metallic clogs. They’re not an everyday shoe, unless, I guess I don’t know what constitutes as “everyday” for you so I shouldn’t say that. They’ll take some breaking in—be prepared. But then when you wear them out strangers will stop you on the street to ask where you got them. Pros and cons.
Outfit idea: Camo green button up and a Prada feather skirt on TRR.
Margaux The Demi Jane ($275)
My one other mesh choice. Of course Margaux does mesh in a very refined fashion. I like the contrast piping here. And they just seem quite ladylike to me, which makes me start to imagine a whole summer alter ego where I’m being carted to luncheons in Markarian…
Outfit idea: A billowy cream top, deep side part, and a secret.
M.GEMI The Sacca Donna ($348)
My trusty dusty loafers! I adore these suede loafers and think they’re some of the best money can buy. I’ll wear mine all summer long, and once I get them treated, fearlessly in a surprise rain storm.
Outfit idea: Cutest little green linen dress and a vintage crochet beaded bag.
Marc Fisher Damaria Woven Flat ($99)
Woven flats are IN! And thank God! I’ve adored the look forever and think it makes a very comfortable ballet flat, in general. You can bet your bottom dollar any brand you love has a woven leather ballet flat at the moment, but this one in particular feels more on the timeless side.
Outfit idea: Brown cotton mini skirt and a vintage tshirt.
Camper Casi Myra ($160)
Camper flats come HIGHLY recommended from people who are on their feet all day. The shoes are expensive, but by comparison, not too bad. This particular style comes in a ton of colors, I just thought the teal was compelling.
Outfit idea: Alex Mill jumpsuit and a ticket to a matinee at Angelika.
Soludos The Dali Original Espadrille ($75)
One more blue shoe! But it comes in dozens of colors and is a cornerstone of the summer shoe conversation. I think people assume espadrilles have to feel nautical. I disagree! They’re so cute in the city, though I do usually only get a summer or two out of them before having to replace.
Outfit idea: Swimsuit as a bodysuit and shorts with a big sun hat.
Sperry Slim Boat Shoes ($100)
Another EV classic. You know I’m in my Sperry boat shoes all year long, but they’re particularly suited for summer dressing. I don’t wear socks with mine and tend to go for the men’s styles, but this pair is very becoming.
Outfit idea: A new Nap Dress silhouette I’m into and a rolled up New Yorker.
Gap Jelly Ballet Flats ($50)
I am not a jelly girl. That probably doesn’t surprise you. But it was only fair to include at least one pair. My thing is this: do not splurge on jelly sandals. I beg of you!
Outfit idea: Green linen wide leg trouser with a matching vest.
Dansko Ingrid Honey Distressed Clog ($125)
I’m a Dansko girl, and even if you’re not, you might be into these. I wear the straps back for more support and find them to be extremely comfortable. Plus, they look cooler on than they photograph for the website…
Outfit idea: Massive dress and a bottle of wine with a bow tied around it.
Everlane The Studio Slingback Flat ($126)
An elegant option if heels are off the table for you this summer. The slingback shape feels sexy without trying too hard.
Outfit idea: Shell print silk dress with a vintage RL sweater over the shoulders.
Keen Uneek Canvas ($130)
Ok…these are not for everyone. Let me preface. But there has to be at least one of you who’s grinning at your phone screen, feeling seen, and delighted someone on the Keen design team thought of you.
Outfit idea: I have no idea, truly.
ME + EM Espadrille Suede Clog ($325)
We’ve discussed these before, but they bear repeating. The chunky sole is not only beautiful, it also means these won’t wear out after a season. Plus the strap in the back makes them way more practical. And brown shoes look amazing with bright summer prints.
Outfit idea: Vintage Lilly Pulitzer dress and an iced vanilla latte.
VIANI Butter Shantung Mary Jane Friulane ($148)
Preordering is good for you. Delayed gratification is a gift! I have these in a blue velvet and treasure them. I also think they make an exceptional gift for someone who has everything.
Outfit idea: White linen coverup, Dorsey earrings, and no make up.
Dolce Vita Elm Flats Cocoa Taurus Calf Hair ($130)
Mules are tricky if you’re planning on walking a ton so these are more of a sneak off to dinner shoe for me. The cowhide print is amazing and I find that v shape very flattering.
Outfit idea: High Sport dupes, Late Migrations, and a shirt that ties.
Honorable Mentions
I just watched Broadcast News for the first time and found it darling. Great for Nora Ephron fans.
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These are amazing but also WHAT IS THE SANDAL?? I'm over Birks but still need something comfortable enough to tromp around in. Not into the Olsen Keens or Tevas. Want something more elevated and elegant but still with personality and will stand up to chasing kids in a playground. Does such a thing exist? Maybe not? Maybe not.
Big thumbs up for the Sabah loafers. I would add the Nisolo huaraches, great summer shoes (but do they count as sandals??) also I want to throw out there that the plasticana clogs will make your feet sweat like no other.