From sculptural wedges to refined sneakers, this season’s most desirable shoes combine comfort, versatility and considered design.
Aquazzura
Summer dressing often begins with the shoes. The right pair needs to work across long days, warm evenings and spontaneous travel while still bringing purpose to an outfit. For Summer 2026, designers are revisiting familiar silhouettes, refining practical favourites and giving nostalgic styles a more sophisticated finish.
Grecian Sandals
Aquazzura
Minimal leather sandals return each summer, but this season’s versions feel particularly elegant. Look for slender straps, toe loops, metallic details and ties that wrap delicately around the ankle. Black and tan remain timeless, while gold and silver introduce a subtle evening quality. Ancient Greek Sandals, Gianvito Rossi and Pucci offer polished interpretations that work with everything from linen trousers and kaftans to column dresses.
Chic Sneakers
Miu Miu
The season’s sneakers are slim, lightweight and far removed from the exaggerated proportions that dominated previous years. Ballet-inspired hybrids, low-profile runners and simple canvas lace-ups bring a more refined attitude to everyday dressing. Prada, Miu Miu, Dries Van Noten and Fendi have explored narrow silhouettes in satin, suede and unexpected colours. Wear them with relaxed tailoring, a fluid dress or a full skirt to create a modern contrast between comfort and elegance.
Wedges
Zimmermann
The wedge is back, but its latest incarnation is cleaner and more sculptural than the towering espadrilles of seasons past. Sleek leather mules, curved heels and transparent constructions give the silhouette a contemporary edge while offering greater stability than a stiletto. Khaite, Alaïa, Toteme and Chloé have all embraced the look. Pair wedges with wide-leg trousers, long skirts or simple summer dresses, allowing the shape of the shoe to become the focus.
Luxe Loafers
Tod’s
Once reserved for cooler months and office wardrobes, loafers have become a sophisticated alternative to sandals. Summer styles are softer and less structured, arriving in supple leather, suede and woven finishes. Backless versions offer the ease of a mule, while cream, tan and soft pastel shades bring freshness to the classic shape. Wear them without socks with cropped trousers, shorts or a relaxed summer dress. Polished yet practical, they are particularly useful for travel days and destinations where sandals feel too casual.
Slingback Sandals
Missoni
Combining the openness of a sandal with the security of a back strap, the slingback is one of summer’s most versatile choices. Low kitten heels work throughout the day, while sculptural shapes, woven textures and flashes of colour offer a stronger evening statement. Fendi’s colour-blocked designs represent the more expressive side of the trend, while minimalist versions provide an elegant partner to tailoring and occasion wear. Choose a barely-there neutral for maximum versatility or a vivid shade to enliven a simple look.
