5 Must Have Shoes for Summer

Remember when you thought being a grown-up included a shoe closet that rivals Carrie Bradshaw?

I do.

But now that I’m an adult, it’s the last thing I care about. It’s funny how life changes.

I still love fashion and style and want to look and feel great. But my life in no way requires $800 designer shoes. And I guess in my youth, I thought it would. 😂

I’d rather spend my money on other things and invest in just a few easy-to-wear, don’t-have-to-think-about-it shoes that make getting dressed easy, something important this time of year when you want to go out and enjoy the weather.

So, for this roundup of must-have summer shoes, I focused on versatile pairs that will get you through the spring and summer so you always have something to wear wherever you’re going.

5 Must Have Shoes for Summer 2024

I have all of these (or a version) and can confidently say that they have made getting dressed so easy.

Consider this like a summer shoe capsule collection.

These are the shoes that will always help you put together a stylish outfit. And remember, you can always add more fun, novelty shoes to spice up your looks if you feel like it.

Block Heel

First up, a block heel sandal.

This pair form Naturalizer is my go-to summer sandal, featured here last month.

These are my most worn shoes for warm weather. I wear them with summer jeans, trousers and dresses.

Available in 12 colors, textures, and patterns, in half sizes up to a 12 in medium and wide for $69.99 plus an extra 30% Off w/ Code: LASTCHANCE at DSW.

1

Bristol Sandal

Naturalizer

$69.99

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Chunky Sandals

Chunky sandals are a fun casual option, that look great with wide leg bottoms, shorts, cotton dresses or even with a cover up at the pool.

I have the Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle High Shine Sandal in nude and wore them frequently last summer.

They are still a great option for this season too.

If you want something similar, but a little different, these Platform Slides from Reader Favorite brand Vivaia are an under $100 option.

They get rave reviews for their comfort and versatility.

2

CustomFit Platform Slides (Nisha)

Vivaia

$69.00

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Strappy Sandal

These are my least worn shoe BUT I’m always happy I have them when I need them.

I like a barely there shoe in the warm months when I’m wearing a dress or a flowy bottom.

From Dolce Vita, featured below in their bone patent leather, also in black, snake and light gold metallic, for $125 in sizes 5- 13 (runs true).

It says it is a 3″ heel, but it wears more like a 2″ heel. Very easy to walk in, stable, and comfy.

Great for summertime special occasions.

3

Manji Heels

Dolce Vita

$125.00

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“Better” Flip Flops

You know I am a beach girl, and one of my favorite things about being at the shore is how little effort you have to make with anything, especially getting dressed. There’s no pretense whatsoever.

But I differentiate between my beach flip-flops and my “going-out” ones. I want to be able to hose off the ones I get sandy but, to grab drinks or go to a friend’s house, I’ll wear something elevated, for lack of a better word. 

These Tory Burch “Classic Flip Flops” are a splurge and I love them. Available in a range of neutrals, metallics and colors, I like the gold for summer.

4

Classic Flip Flop

Tory Burch

$178.00

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Summer Sneakers

Finally, I shared a round-up of six classic white sneakers for spring and summer last week.

That post includes a range of styles at various price points, so be sure to check it out for more options.

This pair from Tretorn, featured below, is my latest find. It’s crafted in canvas, which is a perfect choice if you’re in a hot climate and leather is not your thing. 

I took my usual size 10; they fit well and are cute and comfortable.

These are no-distraction sneakers, the perfect summer sneaker to wear with shorts and a tee to spend your day walking or riding your bike. They are sporty, casual, and elevated.

5

Women’s Nylite Plus Canvas Sneakers

TRETORN

$75.00

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