Pedicure season is officially amongst us, and with it comes the annual scramble to find the best sandalyou can actually rely on. Whether you’re building out a full rotation or searching for that one pair you can keep coming back to, now is the time to get ahead of the summer surge.
Because if there’s one thing about warm-weather dressing, it’s that the best styles never stay in stock for long. The moment the temperature creeps up, cult favourites disappear, viral pairs sell out, and suddenly you’re left panic-buying something you don’t even like. Consider this your early warning.
This season, sandals are striking a balance between ease and style. We’re seeing familiar shapes return, but with small updates that make them feel current again. Think subtle colour shifts, elevated proportions, and silhouettes that do more for your outfit than just finish it off.
From throw-on flip flops to directional T-bar styles, these are the pairs already gaining traction now, and the ones worth locking in before everyone else catches on. Scroll to find your summer sandal – you might as well look at some pedicure inspiration whilst you’re at it.
Flip-Flop
Easy and reliable, the humble flip-flop has been elevated to a genuine fashion contender. While Havaianas remain the gold standard (once you embrace the rubber sole, there’s no going back), the 2026 update is all about the pop of red. Vibrant crimson and burgundy flip-flops are skyrocketing in popularity, mirroring the unexpected red we’ve seen across spring dressing. It’s the easiest way to make a basic jeans-and-jacket combo feel styled rather than accidental.
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Kitten Heel Thong
The heeled flip-flop isn’t going anywhere, it is firmly a city staple. They pair best with capripants but are just as effective with slip dresses or relaxed tailoring. Search for leather finishes or fun beading to take them from a casual stroll to a dinner date without missing a beat.
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T-Bar Sandal
A nostalgic shape that’s firmly back on the radar. T-bar sandals are being restocked across brands, with heeled versions leading the way. They lift softer looks, making them perfect with cargo pants or balloon trousers. It’s that balance of vintage and modern that gives them their spunk.
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Platform Sandal
If you need height without the heartbreak of a stiletto, the platform is your best friend. Ideal for long days out where flats won’t quite cut it, but heels feel like too much. It’s a chunky, Y2K-inspired take on a classic that adds some playfulness to floaty summer dresses.
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Flat Slippers
The flat leather slipper has become a perennial favourite, but Zara’s versions have reached a level of fame that makes them genuinely scarce once the sun comes out. Known for their high-end look at a high street price, these sliders have become a ‘buy now or regret later’ item. They are the ultimate lazy luxury shoe, perfect for slipping on with a linen co-ord for a look that says you’ve put in effort when you really haven’t.
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Renee Washington, Grazia’s digital fashion and beauty writer, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie.
Main Image Credit: Getty Images
