Feels like everyone’s kind of thinking the same thing this summer—shoes are doing a lot more than just getting us from one place to another. I’ve noticed it on Instagram mostly. Jellies showing up at the beach again, those chunky fisherman sandals with easy dresses, mesh flats slipping into every other outfit post. It’s like the same few styles are following me around the feed.
Somehow, they all look casual but styled, like someone actually thought about it but didn’t overdo it. And maybe that’s the whole thing this year—shoes that don’t feel like too much but still change how the outfit looks. These are the ones that keep coming up. Some familiar, some a little different than I remember.
Thong Sandals
Funny how flip-flops—thong sandals—have made their way off the beach and into actual outfits now. I used to think of them as throw-on shoes for running outside or heading to the pool, but lately I’ve seen them styled with tailored pants, silk skirts, even blazers. Somehow it works.
They’re not the rubber ones either. A lot of them are leather, or have little metallic details that make them feel more considered. I remember Phoebe Philo reposted a look with them earlier this year, and after that, it felt like everyone started searching for the “fancier” versions. Some even have chunky soles or squared-off toes now. Not sure I’d dress them up that much, but for casual days, they’re kind of perfect.
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Jelly Sandals
They’re back—and somehow cooler than ever. Jelly sandals, those squishy, translucent shoes you probably wore to the pool as a kid, are now one of the biggest summer shoe trends. Labels like The Row and Valentino have given them the grown-up treatment, trading cartoon colors for soft sorbet hues and sleek, minimalist shapes.
Fashion girls on Instagram are styling them with linen co-ords, sheer skirts, and oversized button-downs, making them feel equal parts playful and polished. Whether you go full nostalgic with glitter jellies or opt for a chic, clear version, these are the ultimate beach-to-bar shoes. Bonus: they’re light enough to toss in your tote and rinse off after a sandy walk.
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Mesh Flats
Somewhere between a ballet flat and a fishnet, mesh flats have quietly become the go-to stylish summer footwear for minimalists and boho lovers alike. You’ll see them styled with everything from tailored shorts to silky midi skirts, often paired with barely-there makeup and slicked-back hair for that effortless cool-girl aesthetic (think Sofia Richie vibes).
They’re breathable, surprisingly comfy, and give your feet some room to breathe during those hot summer days. While The Row kicked off the trend with sheer mesh slippers, brands like Khaite and Dear Frances have followed with equally dreamy versions.
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3D Flower Details
This one's been floating around Instagram a lot—sandals or heels with oversized fabric flowers attached. At first, I thought it might just be for editorials or weddings, but then I kept seeing them with casual outfits. Like someone walking down the street in jeans and a white tank, and then these sculpted flowers at their feet. It catches your eye, but not in a loud way.
Most of the versions I’ve seen are soft-looking, kind of like foam or satin petals. Some look handmade, some almost cartoon-like. Depends on the brand. They’ve shown up on slides too, which makes them feel more wearable. I’ve saved a few reels just to study how people are styling them—usually pretty minimal clothes so the shoes stay the focal point.
Not sure they’re for every day, but if you want something a little offbeat without going full dramatic, they actually work.
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Transparent Heels
This one’s for the maximalists. Transparent heels have emerged as one of the best summer shoes for nights out—or just dressing up denim during the day. Victoria Beckham was recently spotted in a pair, and they’ve been gaining traction ever since.
These shoes make your legs look like they go on forever, and they pair beautifully with metallics, mesh, or a simple black tank dress. They’re equal parts futuristic and Instagrammable, catching the light in every direction (and likely compliments too).
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Fisherman Sandals
Fisherman sandals have definitely made their way back in. At first, I wasn’t sure—I mean, they’re kind of bulky, and not in a subtle way. But now that I’ve seen them styled more casually, they’re starting to make sense. They show up with wide-leg pants, flowy skirts, or just denim shorts and a tank. Nothing too precious.
There’s something solid about them. They give your outfit some weight without making it look overdone. And they’re practical too—more coverage than most trending summer shoes, but still breezy enough when it’s hot out. A bit unexpected, but I’ve grown to like the balance they bring.
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Why They Are Everywhere
It’s not just one thing. Comfort’s obviously part of it—nobody wants to deal with stiff shoes in the heat—but it’s also that these styles feel familiar. A lot of them are old shapes just showing up again, slightly reworked. Stuff we’ve seen before, but now they actually feel wearable. And Instagram’s definitely helping. You see someone style a pair in a way that clicks, and suddenly you’re searching for your own version.
They’re also pretty low-effort, which I think people are craving. Jellies and mesh flats are super light, easy to walk in. Fisherman sandals look bulky but don’t feel that way on. Thongs have gotten sleeker.
Leopard sneakers add just enough detail to make something simple look styled. And those transparent wedges? They just photograph well. No surprise they’re all over feeds right now.
They all fit into whatever else summer is bringing—floaty skirts, linen pants, oversized shirts. Whether your thing is minimal or more layered, there’s probably a pair that makes sense with it.
Where To Find Them
You don’t have to spend much to try one. Most of these shoes are popping up at Zara, Mango, H&M, ASOS—places that are usually on top of Instagram fashion trends anyway. If you’re just testing the look, that’s a good place to start.
But if you’re set on something nicer, the bigger names are doing them too. The Row, Prada, JW Anderson, Loewe—they’ve all done versions this year. You’ll find them at SSENSE, MyTheresa, Matches, or Net-a-Porter.
Mixing works too. Maybe you wear a $30 sandal with a good dress, or throw on designer shoes with something super casual. Either way, it doesn’t have to be a big thing. Just one piece that shifts the whole look a little.
Final Thoughts
These comfortable shoes for summer are kind of proof that comfort doesn’t have to look plain. Some are bold, some are simple—but they all make sense in their own way. If something’s been sitting in your saved folder for a while, maybe it’s time. Try a pair. See how it feels.
ALSO READ: These G.H. Bass Summer Shoes Go With Everything in Your Closet
