As the warm summer months roll around, sandals inevitably become a go-to footwear option for many. With their breathable designs and effortless style, sandals are the perfect way to keep your feet cool while still looking fashionable. From casual beach days to evening outings, sandals can be dressed up or down to suit a variety of occasions. The key to styling sandals for a perfect summer look is all about choosing the right pair for the occasion and pairing them with the right clothing pieces. Whether you’re heading to a laid-back picnic or an elegant rooftop dinner, this guide will show you how to style sandals for any summer event.
The Appeal of Sandals: Comfort and Versatility
One of the primary reasons sandals are so beloved during the summer is their comfort. Unlike closed shoes, sandals allow for proper airflow, keeping your feet cool and preventing discomfort even on the hottest days. Whether you’re wearing flat sandals, wedge sandals, or heeled sandals, there’s a pair for every occasion. Furthermore, sandals come in various designs, colors, and materials, making them a highly versatile footwear option that can complement nearly any outfit.
But sandals are not just practical—they also carry an air of relaxed elegance. They evoke the carefree spirit of summer, offering a casual yet stylish option for everyday wear. The challenge, however, is knowing how to style them properly. With the right approach, sandals can elevate your look, making them a perfect footwear choice for any summer event.
1. Casual Daywear: Styling Sandals for a Relaxed Summer Look
For many, summer is synonymous with laid-back, casual days spent outdoors. Whether you’re strolling through the city, spending the day at the beach, or enjoying a barbecue with friends, sandals are ideal for casual outings. Here’s how to style them for a cool, comfortable look:
a) Flat Sandals with Shorts
One of the simplest yet most stylish ways to wear sandals is by pairing them with shorts. Flat sandals, especially those with thin straps or minimalist designs, go beautifully with denim or linen shorts. This pairing creates a laid-back, breezy vibe that’s perfect for hot summer days. To complete the outfit, you can choose a simple t-shirt or tank top. For a more polished look, opt for a button-down shirt or a flowy blouse tucked into your shorts.
To elevate this combination, consider adding a straw hat and a woven bag for a more bohemian feel. Accessories like sunglasses and simple jewelry can add the perfect finishing touches to your look.
b) Slip-On Sandals with a Maxi Dress
If you’re looking for an effortlessly chic summer outfit, consider wearing slip-on sandals with a maxi dress. Maxi dresses are often breezy and flowy, making them a great option for hot weather. Pair them with flat slip-on sandals to create a comfortable and stylish ensemble. Whether you choose a floral print or a solid-colored maxi dress, slip-on sandals will complement the dress’s casual, feminine silhouette.
This combination works well for brunch dates, casual afternoons in the park, or evening strolls by the beach. If you’re heading out for an evening event, a stylish crossbody bag and some layered necklaces can add a touch of elegance without going overboard.
c) Birkenstocks with Athleisure
Athleisure is one of the most popular trends of the last few years, blending comfort and fashion seamlessly. Birkenstocks, known for their contoured footbeds and durable designs, make an ideal pairing with athleisure clothing. A simple pair of leggings, joggers, or a matching athleisure set can be elevated with Birkenstocks for a cool, on-trend look.
When styling Birkenstocks, opt for neutral or earth-toned colors to keep the outfit grounded. A cropped sweatshirt or an oversized t-shirt adds a relaxed vibe, while a pair of sunglasses completes the look with effortless style. This outfit is perfect for running errands, meeting friends for a casual lunch, or simply enjoying a day out in the sun.
2. Beach and Poolside Looks: Styling Sandals for a Day at the Water
A classic summer activity involves heading to the beach or pool, where comfort and ease are paramount. When it comes to styling sandals for beach days, the goal is to keep things simple, breathable, and practical. Here’s how to do it:
a) Flip-Flops with a Bikini or Swimsuit
When it comes to beachwear, flip-flops are the ultimate go-to sandal. Easy to slip on and off, flip-flops are practical for walking on the sand or lounging by the pool. For a coordinated beach look, pair your flip-flops with a bikini, swimsuit, or a cover-up. Bold colors or fun patterns can add extra personality to your outfit. Whether you prefer simple rubber flip-flops or embellished versions with beads or sequins, this pairing is perfect for a beach day.
To add a touch of style, consider wearing a beach hat and some oversized sunglasses. A large beach tote will keep your essentials safe, and a lightweight scarf can double as a cover-up for extra sun protection.
b) Gladiator Sandals with a Kaftan
For a more glamorous poolside look, gladiator sandals can add a bit of edge and sophistication. These sandals, which often feature multiple straps that wrap around the calf or ankle, pair beautifully with a kaftan or flowing cover-up. Gladiator sandals elevate your beach or pool look, making it more fashionable without sacrificing comfort.
Opt for neutral colors like tan, black, or gold, which go well with almost any color of kaftan. To complete the ensemble, accessorize with layered bracelets, statement earrings, or a wide-brimmed hat. This combination works well for an afternoon at a resort or an upscale pool party.
c) Sporty Sandals with a Romper
If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at the pool or on the beach but still want to look stylish, consider pairing sporty sandals with a romper. The combination of practicality and fashion-forward style is perfect for active summer days. Sporty sandals, often featuring adjustable straps and cushioned soles, provide comfort for walking on rocky terrain, while a romper offers a cute and effortless outfit.
Opt for a printed romper with bold colors or go for a more understated, neutral tone. Either way, sporty sandals will complement the outfit’s easygoing vibe, keeping you comfortable and stylish for a day full of summer activities.
3. Evening Wear: Dressing Up Sandals for a Stylish Night Out
While sandals are often associated with casual wear, they can also be dressed up for more formal occasions. Whether you’re attending a summer wedding, an evening dinner, or a night out in the city, sandals can add a chic touch to your evening attire. Here are some ideas for styling sandals for evening events:
a) Heeled Sandals with a Midi Dress
If you’re looking for a polished yet comfortable evening look, heeled sandals paired with a midi dress are the perfect combination. Midi dresses, which fall just below the knee, are versatile and appropriate for many occasions. Choose a figure-flattering midi dress in a solid color or floral pattern and pair it with heeled sandals to add height and sophistication.
Opt for heeled sandals with delicate straps or embellishments like rhinestones or pearls for an extra touch of glam. Finish off the look with statement jewelry and a small clutch for an elegant yet comfortable evening ensemble.
b) Wedge Sandals with a Maxi Skirt
For a more bohemian-inspired look, wedge sandals paired with a flowing maxi skirt are a beautiful combination. Wedge sandals provide extra height while still being comfortable to walk in, making them ideal for outdoor evening events. Pair them with a fitted top, whether it’s a tucked-in blouse or a cropped sweater, to create a balanced and flattering silhouette.
The flowy nature of the maxi skirt gives the outfit an effortless, relaxed vibe, while the wedge sandals keep the look grounded. Add a bold statement necklace or a wide-brimmed hat to complete the boho chic look.
c) Metallic Sandals with a Cocktail Dress
For formal evening events, metallic sandals are an excellent choice to add a touch of luxury to your outfit. Pair them with a cocktail dress for a sleek and modern look. Silver, gold, or rose gold sandals complement a variety of colors and can elevate the sophistication of your dress. Whether you choose a sleek black cocktail dress or a colorful option, metallic sandals will add just the right amount of shine.
Pair the look with minimalistic jewelry—perhaps a simple bracelet or a delicate pair of earrings—and a clutch for an evening-ready ensemble.
Final Thoughts: Sandals as the Perfect Summer Footwear
Sandals are the quintessential footwear for summer, offering both style and comfort in equal measure. From casual beach days to elegant evening events, there’s a sandal style for every occasion. Whether you’re rocking a pair of flip-flops by the pool or dressing up with heeled sandals for an evening out, the key to a perfect summer look is choosing the right pair of sandals and pairing them with the appropriate clothing. With the right styling, sandals can become the centerpiece of your summer wardrobe, keeping you cool, comfortable, and fashionable all season long.
