Seven summer shoe trends, from chic flip-flops to polished basics

Tessa Faye O’Connell knows exactly what gets worn in New York, not just what gets photographed. She works in fashion media and public relations, runs global PR at Coach, and as a mom of two she is clearly thinking about the kind of shoes that get you out the door fast without making you look like you gave up.

That frame matters in a city where summer is not a vibe so much as a test. The National Weather Service says a heat wave means at least three consecutive days of 90-degree highs, and New York’s hottest stretch usually lands from mid-July through mid-August. When the city Health Department says New York averages about 525 heat-related deaths a year, warm-weather footwear stops being frivolous and starts being the most practical style decision in the closet.

Flip-flops

This is the pair that changed the conversation, because the new flip-flop is no longer just a beach shoe with a side hustle. WWD pointed to Balenciaga’s spring 2026 show at Paris Fashion Week, staged on October 4, 2025, where thong sandals came in multiple iterations and sat front and center next to celebrities like FKA Twigs and Meghan Markle. That kind of runway backing is why the style feels less like a trend spike and more like a real wardrobe shift.

For commuting, the appeal is obvious: no buckles, no fuss, no drama when you are dashing for a train or crossing hot pavement. The polished version lives in cleaner leather, slimmer straps, and a shape that reads intentional instead of lazy. If you buy one shoe this season that can move from errands to dinner without making you think too hard, this is the loudest argument.

Fisherman sandals

Fisherman sandals are the anti-sweaty-foot solution that still looks like you tried. The woven cage gives them enough structure to feel city-proof, which matters when you are clocking blocks, stairs, and a subway platform in one afternoon. They are one of those rare warm-weather shoes that can take a beating and still look better the second day you wear them.

Polish comes from the silhouette itself, especially in smooth leather or a deeper neutral that feels a little more expensive than your average casual flat. They also have real repeat-wear value because they play nicely with wide-leg trousers, crisp shorts, and easy dresses without turning precious. This is the kind of shoe that makes a capsule wardrobe actually work, because it covers practical and pulled-together in the same move.

Strappy black flat sandals

Black flat sandals are the quiet achiever in the bunch. Marie Claire’s summer shoe coverage leans into 90s-inspired strappy sandals, and that feeling is exactly what makes this style useful now: it gives you skin, line, and a little attitude without demanding a heel. On a commute, they are easy enough to slip on and stable enough to keep moving.

The polish factor is high because black reads sharper than tan, especially against white denim, tailored shorts, or a silk skirt. They are also the kind of shoes that disappear into an outfit, which sounds boring until you realize that is how you get maximum mileage. One pair can do office, dinner, and weekend brunch without looking like it belongs to any single lane.

Sporty shoes and mesh flats

Sporty shoes and mesh flats are the smartest answer for anyone who wants air without sacrificing shape. The open texture keeps them from feeling heavy in high heat, and the sport-inspired edge gives them a newer, less fussy energy than a dainty ballet flat. They are especially good for days when your outfit needs to look finished but your calendar says you are going everywhere.

The polish comes from keeping the palette controlled, think soft black, bone, or another tone that does not scream gym class. Repeat-wear value is where they really win, because they can sit under trousers, shorts, and midi skirts without forcing the rest of the look to change. This is the kind of flat that makes sense when you want the comfort of sneakers with less bulk and more style cred.

Gold sandals

Gold sandals are the easiest way to make a simple outfit look intentional. They catch light in a way that works beautifully with summer skin, and they add just enough shine to turn jeans and a tank into something that feels styled. On foot, they read more like jewelry than footwear, which is exactly why they belong in a streamlined wardrobe.

Commute practicality depends on the shape, but the right pair can still feel sensible if the sole is flat and the straps are secure. Their strength is repeat-wear value, because metallics travel well from day to night and do not get trapped in one outfit formula. If your wardrobe runs on black, white, navy, or faded denim, gold is the quickest shortcut to freshness.

Low block heels

Low block heels are the grown-up answer for anyone who wants lift without punishment. The heel gives posture and polish, but the block base keeps things grounded enough for real life, which means fewer compromises on sidewalks, in lobbies, and on nights that begin as dinner and turn into drinks. They are the pair that makes a simple dress look finished without making you pay for it later.

Their commute practicality is better than a stiletto and their repeat-wear value is stronger than most dress shoes because they slot into so many scenarios. Wear them with tailored pants, a slip skirt, or even straight-leg denim when you need a little more structure. In a capsule wardrobe, they do the job of elevation without becoming a costume.

Raffia shoes

Raffia shoes bring texture into the rotation, and that tactile quality is half the point. They feel summer-specific without going full vacation, which is useful if you want your wardrobe to look seasonal but not theme-park obvious. The weave gives even a simple flat or low heel a bit of personality, and that matters when you are trying to do more with fewer buys.

For commuting, the best versions keep the silhouette clean so the material reads chic rather than crafty. They also have strong repeat-wear value when paired with linen, cotton poplin, denim, and anything else that already likes to breathe. Raffia is the shoe equivalent of a good natural fiber shirt: not flashy, but impossible to ignore when the heat turns serious.