Why the naked sandal is taking the season by storm

The strappy heel; the nude shoe; the barely-there sandal: whatever you choose to call it, the one thing everyone agrees on is that it is the shoe trend of SS19.

The Row and By Far pioneered the movement last summer, and it soon trickled down to the high-street (hello, Zara, Topshop and Mango). This year, other big-name designers have followed suit too, with Prada, Saint Laurent and Stella McCartney all offering their take on the minimalist style. I’m also very excited about Staud’s first foray into footwear, which features an excellent take on the trend.

So, let’s talk key features: the straps should be so thin that even you’re fooled into thinking you’re barefoot at first glance, and the palette decidedly neutral (think white/nude/black or, if you’re feeling daring, soft metallic and pastel tones). The overall aesthetic to aim for here is elegant – unless, of course, you’re planning to follow the fashion crowd and pair your naked sandal with a jazzy pair of socks to add edge – perfect if you just can’t wait for warmer climes.

The best bit? Part Rachel, circa season 6 of Friends, part Carrie Bradshaw, these heels are inherently sexy and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re styling them with a straight-leg jean, oversized shirt and hourglass blazer, or a satin midi dress, there’s no look they won’t work with, which is exactly why Net-A-Porter is stocking up for the year. Global buying director Elizabeth von der Goltz says, ‘We knew the barely-there sandal was having a serious comeback when we saw its prominence at the September fashion shows. We backed the trend heavily for AW18, selling out of numerous styles.’

If that’s not proof that they’re this season’s best in shoe, I don’t know what is. With that in mind, shop my edit of naked sandals below now before they get snapped up…