The Only Sandal Trends Worth Knowing This Summer
Your warm-weather footwear edit, sorted.
Summer is nearly here, and your wardrobe deserves a proper refresh. Beyond rotating in your tried-and-true favourites, this is the season to make intentional additions—the kind that actually go the distance in your wardrobe. As things heat up, our focus has been firmly on sandals, and if the recent collections are any indication, designers have been delivering. From sleek minimalism to intricate artistry, there’s something for every aesthetic.
From afternoons lounging poolside to downtown patio drinks, sandals are the right call for any occasion. We’ve been able to round up the top five trends that are going to be taking over this year; whether it be on the red carpet or walking the streets of Toronto, these are the sandals we can guarantee you’ll be seeing everywhere.
Wedges
Reminiscent of your favourite 2000s celebrity, wedges have made their comeback as an everyday fan-favourite. The ultimate go-to for a look that is equal parts comfortable and effortlessly stylish, this is the sandal you reach for on a whim—think Eva Longoria, Jennifer Garner and Alyson Michalka, to name a few. The iconic silhouette has been reclaimed as one of the hottest trends of 2026, and high fashion is fully on board. Bottega Veneta, Alaïa, Reformation and Prada all dropped their own versions ahead of the summer season, many leaning into the classic vintage high-heeled arch we know and love. The flattering shape works with everything—flouncy capris, your favourite mini skirt, you name it. Wedges are guaranteed to complement every summer look.
Thong kitten heels
Your sleekest summer sandal for every occasion. The thong kitten heel is a timeless classic that pairs effortlessly with just about anything. Creating all the buzz around this vintage staple right now is none other than Hailey Bieber, best spotted sporting them with polka dot capris and straight-legged jeans. The appeal is simple — versatility. A true capsule item, this silhouette has consistently cycled back into relevance for over thirty years. Brands like Steve Madden have dropped several versions ahead of the summer season, making it easier than ever to find your perfect pair. With momentum only building over the past few years, the thong kitten heel is not going anywhere.
3D floral motifs
Creative visionary comes to life in the form of sculptural sandals, and this season, floral motifs are making a statement. Dior’s Fall 2026 show set the tone early, featuring a series of heels adorned with 3D florals that felt like a natural extension of their ready-to-wear collection. Since the preview, brands have followed suit—using hyper-realistic, eye-catching blooms as the statement element of their designs. The trend captures something effortlessly appealing: earthy and feminine, elegant and playful all at once. Typically built on a strappy silhouette, these sandals are vibrant works of art that bring a personality of their own to any outfit. If you’re looking to have a little fun with your summer looks, this is where to start.
Metal hardware
Metal hardware has become the defining accent of the season, with chromatic details taking over recent sandal drops. Whether used as a subtle accent or a full sculptural statement, the sleek flash of metal sharpens any outfit effortlessly. The Isabel Marant x Havaianas collaboration has been the obsession of the summer — merging the laid-back ease of Marant’s signature style with a contrasting punk edge for a sandal that is equal parts bold and chic. Soft, high-quality faux leather meets polished metal for a combination that just works. Versatile across materials and silhouettes, metal hardware is one of the easiest ways to elevate your usual sandal rotation this summer.
Wooden Sandals
With bohemian fashion making its full return, the appetite for natural, earthy materials has never been stronger — and wooden sandals are the standout piece that pulls any outfit together. Typically pairing a wood heel with leather or woven accents, the silhouette strikes a balance between sophisticated and effortlessly zen, working across every summer occasion. The trend also taps into something bigger: a growing shift towards non-toxic fashion and a renewed focus on quality—materials, construction and the intention behind a piece. Chic is taking on an entirely new meaning, and wooden sandals feel like the perfect expression of that. Coach, Anthropologie and Chloé have all released their own takes on the trend, spanning mules, stilettos and platforms. This one is going to be everywhere this summer.
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