I’ve Just Returned From a Luxury European Resort—These Are the 5 Sandal Trends All the Coolest Women Were Wearing
The best sandals this season are as polished as they are practical
There's no shortage of beautiful sights to take in while lounging on the beach at D Maris Bay in south-western Türkiye. Floating islands, crystal-clear waters and rolling mountains as far as the eye can see. And yet my eyes keep drifting downwards—because the 2026 summer sandal season has officially begun, and it seems every single one of the glamorous guests here has had a head start. Spoiler: Hermès Oran sandals are still very much in circulation, though last year's bold black and orange have been swapped for softer beige and cream.
They aren't, however, the only sandals working their way into the wardrobes of the coolest European summer dressers. Far from it. There are, though, a handful of key categories that are clearly having a moment this season. Flip flops, for one—the unassuming staple that now spans every price point, from The Row's chunky-soled style (a firm favourite among luxury fashion devotees) to the classic Havaianas, spotted here at the beach bar in almost every shade imaginable, even on those toting a Chanel beach bag. Red being my personal favourite.
Then there are the sleek slides—the family the Hermès Oran belongs to. The minimalist sandal I'm personally sporting right now, Ancient Greek Sandals being my longstanding go-to. And the fisherman sandal, which the coolest dressers here have unanimously reached for—particularly come lunch and dinner. They work especially well with a jean.
Simply consider me your on-the-ground sandal correspondent, because it's always the stylish early holidaymakers who end up on the summer dressing moodboard first.
Just scroll on for the styles worth investing in this season. Each versatile enough to work with jeans, dresses, skirts or the lace-trim shorts currently having their moment. The key to a great sandal investment, after all, is how versatile they are in your summer wardrobe.
Best Flat Sandals of 2026
Best Flip Flops
The Row's Ginza flip flops have been a staple in many a chic woman's wardrobe for a number of seasons now. A key plus being the wedge sole that adds extra height.
For the more refined dresses, A.Emery's sandals would be a wise first port of call.
Havaianas have been a holiday staple since the 90s, and our love for the longwear flip flop is showing no sign of slowing down. Adding 'a pop of red' to your outfit will earn you instant kudos.
These Christopher Esber jelly flip flops are arguably the most highly sought-after sandal this season. Plus, they also fall into our jelly shoe category.
Cobalt blue may not be the first flip flip colour that springs to mind, but white jeans, skirts and linen trousers will feel much more fun.
In perhaps the most surprising of revived trends, the 90s favourite fabric flip flop is slowly but surely coming back into rotation. You can thank The Row for that.
Best Slides
Saint Laurent knows how to design a chic shoe, and these dainty slides are no exception.
Crochet detailing is a key trend for Spring/Summer 26 and this bold pink Boden version will liven up any look.
If last season saw the sell-out success of Loewe's petal sandal in bold blues and greens, this season the classic shades are due a comeback.
These silver leather slides will work just as well for the office as they will out for dinner and on holiday.
Another example of a simplistic slide that will work with your office wardrobe.
I couldn't even count the number of Oran sandals I've seen this weekend. Proof, if ever you needed it, that the style is still much loved amongst luxury lovers.
Best Gladiator Sandals
These traditional style gladiator sandals work incredibly well when paired with jeans.
For those looking for a true fashion sandal, Khaite's leather lace-ups are sure to provide exactly that.
If you thought Valentino's Rockstud styles were left in the 2010's, think again. Alessandro Michele is making a strong case for their comeback, and with most sizes having to be re-stocked, it's clearly working.
The grape and strawberry charms are especially adorable on these shoes, easily bringing a boho meets statement style.
With dainty strings and a small logo detail, these Saint Laurent sandals are my personal favourite and it's becoming increasingly hard to spot them in stock.
Best Minimal Sandals
Expect to see these minimalist strappy sandals on the feet of the best dressed women you know.
I've been a longtime lover of Ancient Greek Sandals and these ones offer a padded sole that's perfect for strolling in.
Elegant and timeless - these sandals are a no-brainer.
Granted, these beaded sandals may not be the most minimalistic choice, but if you're after an evening sandal they're absolutely deserving of a look at.
I spied not one but four women wearing toe ring detail sandals on the beach.
You'd be hard-pushed to find a more minimalist sandal than this style, and they work just as well for work as they would for the weekend.
Best Jelly Sandals
Sitting somewhere between a sandal and a ballet pump, consider these your everyday summer staple.
Granted, these sandals aren't totally flat—although the heel is especially small. Chloé's last season bestseller is back in new colourways.
Quite possibly the chicest jellies I've ever seen.
I've already spied these red jelly sandals on a number of cool women I follow on Instagram.
Opt for these PVC clear sandals to truly home in on the jelly sandal look.
Quite possibly the chicest jellies you can buy.
