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Summer heat is upon us and sandal season is officially here. While there are plenty of footwear trends to indulge in this season, the best black sandals are the ultimate warm-weather classic, able to seamlessly integrate into any wardrobe. Akin to a pair of comfy sneakers or loafers—a black pair of sandals is as urgent and necessary to one’s wardrobe during peak heat as a pair of boots is during the fall.
Vogue’s Favorite Black Sandal Styles:
- The Sleek Slide Sandals: The Row Signum slipper sandals, $1,200
- The Minimalist Flip Flop: Aeyde Melody leather flip-flops, $295
- The Big Buckled: Birkenstock Milano dual-buckle slingback sandals, $520
- The Strappy Sandals: Ancient Greek Sandals Sfendoni sandals, $290
- The Slingbacks: Toteme leather thong sandals, $540
- The Micro Heel: Cos crossover-strap kitten-heel sandals, $170
- The Jewel Detail: Tory Burch Patos slingback sandals, $398
- The Scene Stealer: Khaite Boden sandals, $1,280
Many of our current favorite black sandals sandals hit on key seasonal runway trends, while others are perennial staples. Elevated flip-flops, following in the footsteps of takes from The Row, continue to be a standout. Versions from Aeyde and A.Emery are chic options that won’t break the bank. For those who abide by the minimalist doctrine, sleek slides and delicate strappy styles are having their moment as well. Toteme’s satin-twill slide will easily elevate even the simplest ensemble. And if your docket of calendar events is looking extra full this summer—whether it’s birthdays, weddings, or other soirées, we highly recommend adding a micro kitten heel to your closet; they will go a long way in terms of comfort and style.
Elevated Flip Flops
Elevated takes on the classic flip flop, whether in leather from Aeyde and A.Emery, or PVC courtesy of Ancient Greek Sandals, will be your go-to all season long. Pair them with anything from a minimalist dress to an oversized suit.
Sleek Slides
Slides are nothing new in the realm of summer shoes, but our favorite styles this season have a distinctly minimalist bent. Options are available across the price spectrum and in a variety of finishes, from Toteme’s sleek suede slipper to Reformation’s ’90s-coded flatform style.
Thick Straps
Heavy and thick ankle strap sandals, like Loewe’s criss-cross style or Birkenstocks’s patent Milano pair (a 2.0. version of the brand’s Arizona bestsellers with a snug back strap), will add a bit of heft to an ethereal summer dress or a flowing white drawstring trouser.
Chic Slingbacks
Flat slingback sandals have emerged as a dominant trend this season, with offerings from cool-girl cult-brands like Proenza Schouler, Toteme, and Tory Burch featuring arresting details like unique open-toe cutouts and jewel adornments.
T-Strap
The classic T-strap sandal proves its versatility—elegant at Jil Sander, preppy in Gucci’s horsebit iteration, and sporty via Miu Miu’s spring runway shape. All of them are equally cool and classic, and arguably some of the most comfortable sandals on this list.
Mirco Heels
An even tinier version of the classic kitten heel, which we’re dubbing the micro, as chic as they are easy to wear. (Just slip on and go!) Your feet will thank you on long summer evenings.
Delicate
Thinly-wrapped sandals embody the spirit of summer, with their light, simple silhouette. Our picks from Khaite, Saint Laurent, Margaux and Ancient Greek Sandals will never go out of style.
Scene Stealers
If you’re looking for a sandal that makes more of a statement, there are on-trend options across the board, like Alaïa’s mesh take on a slingback thong, Prada’s hefty oxford style, or Khaite’s studded version.
The Heeled Sandal
This summer’s go-to heel isn’t shy. Whether in mule or strappy form, these silhouettes come with a thicker, durable heel and a bold impact.
