One of the most exciting aspects of performing the biannual seasonal clothing swap (sayonara, puffer coats) is laying eyes on our collection of summer footwear that hid under our beds all winter. Sandals and flats appear so relaxed and so minimal in comparison to the clunky boots of previous months. As we continue to battle the fickle nature of transitional weather, even the simple act of swapping a sneaker for a sandal seems to symbolize hope for warmer days. In case your collection is in need of a little refresh, we've asked our staffers to divulge the styles and brands they're eyeing at the moment. From fisherman sandals to flip-flops to slides, here's what everyone at Coveteur is adding to their shopping carts.
Jessica Teves, Head of Content
Oran Sandals
I had a long-overdue foot surgery earlier this year, so heels are probably off the table for the duration of 2021. That said, these iconic H cutout sandals from Hermès are just what I need to feel put together and elegant this summer—even if it means just throwing them on with jeans and a white t-shirt.
Sandal Khaki
I recently ordered these khaki slides from Freedom Moses and can't say enough good things about them—they come in so many colorways, too! They're injected with air for a super comfy walking experience and are vegan and made from recycled materials, so you can feel good about your investment and the summer vibes you're giving off.
Classic Rubber Double Layer Soft Top Eva
Growing up in Florida, these were a dime a dozen—full wardrobe staple. I recently bought a pair for the beach, and besides the nostalgia they drummed up for me, I can honestly say they are the most comfortable and easy-to-wear sandals ever. Fun fact: The factory in San Clemente, CA, is 100 percent worth a visit for a behind-the-scenes look at how they're made.
Camille Freestone, Associate Style Editor
Kelsey Leather Sandals
Ever since last summer, I've been obsessed with fisherman sandals. The menswear-inspired silhouette tones down an uber-feminine, warm-weather ensemble in the best way. Plus, they are perfect for those in-between-pedicure days (read: weeks).
The City Sandal
I've been coveting these babies for a while now, and I think this summer may be the time to take the plunge. They are super modern so they won't dress down an outfit despite the casual nature of the shoe. The price isn't bad either...
Eleftheria Braided Leather Sandals
I've been wearing this sandal silhouette for a few years now, and in that time it's definitely become one of my closet staples. I love the way it almost looks like the braided leather is wrapped around your foot—so flattering. They work with almost anything from jeans to dresses to shorts.
Caroline Dunn, Affiliate Coordinator
Woody Logo Strap Sandal
Last summer, after much trepidation, I chose to drop almost $400 on a pair of logo sandals that I kept seeing on Instagram—the original black-and-white Chloe Woody Sandal. With the state of the world and the state of my career at the time, this purchase felt extremely frivolous and almost irresponsible...until I ended up wearing the sandals almost every day of the summer and even deep into the fall. The cost-per-wear is truly so low at this point that I can fully justify investing in the new tan-and-white colorway for this summer, as I had wished at times that my current black-and-white pair was more neutral. Pro tip: Buy one size up!
Cabana Neoprene Slides
These cute and casual slides are genuinely comfortable and perfect for the beach. I've made the mistake of wearing some investment pieces in settings where they likely did not belong in the past (ahem, see above), and these slides are my new go-to alternative. I've already found myself throwing them in my bag to change into for the subway, as they're super lightweight, so think of them as your new substitute to the rubber flip-flop.
Rope 65mm Heeled Sandal
I was convinced that I needed these sandals by this post from Tory Burch's Instagram. I love the nautical feel of the wraparound rope and can't wait to pair these with an all-white, easy-breezy linen outfit, which may happen even before Memorial Day.
Nick Papa, Brand Partnerships & Sales Manager
x Central St. Martins Tallahassee Sandals
I am a tried and true fan of all things Birkenstock, and I am obsessed with everything about this Central St. Martins collab. These sandals are the perfect elevated take on the classic Arizona, which can take any easy summer look to the next level—all while in the comfort of a Birkenstock.
Chadwick Sandals
There is nothing better than a simplistic leather sandal that you can throw on for any occasion. This Grenson pair offers an insanely comfortable footbed and streamlined cutout strap, which I love pairing with an easy trouser and t-shirt for summer evenings.
Elasticated Intrecciato Sandals
As you can see, I have an affinity for neutral sandals, and these are no exception—the intriguing signature woven detail paired with the rubber sole makes these completely functional for summer. I'll be wearing these quite literally all summer long, whether it is by the pool, to the market, or out for a casual lunch.
Ama Kwarteng, Beauty Editor
Bare Sandal
The last time I wore heeled sandals was during a 75-minute walk from a restaurant in Newport, RI, to my hotel. (It's a long story.) By the end of the excursion, the only thing worse than my mood was the state of my feet. I'll spare you the not-so-cute details, but I almost swore off heels forever…until I slipped on these classic Jagger sandals a few months later. You know how everyone says you find love when you least expect it? These shoes are actually comfortable—the straps don't dig into your skin, and the heel doesn't feel like it could snap at any second.
Recycled Satin Knotted Flatform Sandals
Sure, more and more people are getting vaccinated, bringing us closer to some semblance of normalcy. But that doesn't mean that I'm ready to go from wearing fuzzy house slippers 24/7 to throwing on the highest stilettos I can find in my closet. I'll be easing into reemergence with these bold, citrus-colored platform sandals. Not only do these shoes give you an actual lift off the ground, but the padded leather insoles create a comfortable base that kind of feels like you're walking on clouds.
Suede Sandals
To me, these chocolate sandals are the Goldilocks of shoes—they're not too informal, like a pair of flip-flops, but they're not too over-the-top, either. These suede, strappy sandals are casual enough to pair with your white cotton T-shirt and boyfriend jeans, and they're also elegant enough to slide into while wearing a breezy silk slip dress.