How to wear sporty sandals this summer
Hard-working sandals are back with a bang. To find the best way to style yours, just follow our guide
While fashion was once all form over function – see the eye watering price tags of haute couture and heels so high they render walking impossible – it has evolved into something decidedly more relatable in recent years. These days, thanks to a demand for clothes that are as flexible and hard working as we are, trends are getting – and staying – practical.
This is certainly true of the trend that hit us last year and shows no signs of slowing: a sandal that’s quite literally made for walking, which has usurped flimsy options as the thing to pound pavements in.
With velcro straps, light but hard-wearing tractor soles and an air of the shoes your geography teacher might have worn, utilitarian sandals continue to win fans across the board. From Gen Zers with their wide-leg jeans and oversized sportswear, to the commuter classes with tailored separates, now everyone can embrace the sandal.
At the heart of this trend is the resurgence of US born brand Teva which finds its ‘sport sandal’ topping the wish lists of fashion fans. This isn’t the story of just one brand though. Our collective demand for footwear options that are as versatile as they are dynamic, and for a sandal that fulfills the same function as a trainer, means there is an extensive selection around. Kin’s Leap sandals serve as a fine example while the likes of Whistles and Kurt Geiger have great options too.
But how to wear yours? The overriding rule with a sports-inspired sandal is that there are no rules, so wear this shoe in a way that best works for you. A sandal in a dark or neutral shade is a fine companion for a little black dress in need of dressing down, while a stark white or neon pair looks great with denim. Inspired by this summer’s take on easy-to-wear sportswear? You need a pair of Tevas in classic black to match your slouchy run shorts and drop hole vests.
And if that’s all a little too casual for you, bypass the velcro and stick to an equally sensible sandal in leather or suede, such as Hush’s leather sliders. A chunky leather option is also worth consideration, particularly for those heading into the office.
