Tessa Faye O’Connell is a contributor known for her work at various fashion houses, specializing in media and public relations, currently working coach As its global PR director. She is the mother of two children, She is also working on expanding her influence in the fashion sphere through styling as well as stepping out on time.
As we all know, the subject of shoes is a touchy one, but we (I mean me) finally feel like we’re getting somewhere. Add in the spring and/or summer weather in New York – if nice weather finally prevails – and there is a whole range of shoes for the warmer months.
Unlike East Coast winters, I find that not being limited to closed shoes in the spring and summer is an automatic benefit, and The options for the season are a little more fun and versatile. There’s something special about styles that we don’t get to wear all year round, that makes them all the more exciting to wear. These are my favorite styles; Whether at work or on the weekend, I’m thrilled to have them in the rotation.
Summer 2026 Capsule Shoe Wardrobe
flip flop
(Image credit: Tessa Faye O’Connell)
I’m crazy about thong sandals as high shoes. I love this pop of red with an all-black outfit or Loeffler Randall’s croc style. It’s comfortable, and so many brands have now created more luxury versions for you to wear to work.
just a little
flat leather sandals
Loeffler Randall
Lena Espresso Leather Flip Flops
jamie haller
san diego sandals
st agni
Classic Thong Slides
fisherman sandals
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Sorry, but I still think the fisherman’s style is cool! It offers a closed leg option that is easy to wear to work with jeans and on the weekend with shorts and a top.
freda salvador
serra fisherman sandals
Madewell
milano fisherman sandals
Rothy’s
fisherman sandals
Strappy, flat black sandals
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Margaux can do no wrong in my eyes, and this style in particular offers comfort and wearability. Easy to elevate any type of outfit, a black sandal is a must-have for ease.
margaux
palermo sandals
A.Emery
elmer sandals
Improvement
pina flat sandals
Sporty Shoes/Mesh Flats
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I wasn’t sold on this style at first, but I’m totally into the sporty wear/mesh vibe of these shoes. They’re extremely comfortable (I’m talking more than 10,000 steps in the city) and easily elevate a perfect white or skirt outfit.
Loeffler Randall
Raina Dark Brown Mesh Flats
gold sandals
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mine gold ancient Greek Sandals have been my best investment, and I’ve been wearing them for years. A gold sandal is always a good idea and adds extra sparkle to any spring/summer outfit without doing too much.
ancient greek sandals
Eleftheria Braided Metallic Leather Sandals
emme parsons
Susan in washed gold nappa
TKEES
Mariana Metallic Sandals
AEYDE
Ella Gold Leather Flat Sandals
low block heels
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Elevate your work attire? Is it really worth meeting friends for drinks after work? Going out for dinner with your kids? Low block heels are your best friend. I’m liking the colorful one for the warmer months.
just a little
leather heeled mules
just a little
suede heel sandals
raffia shoes
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I love anything raffia for summer – it’s so special and something you don’t get to wear all year round. Bonus: Always appropriate for the holidays and easy with summer outfits.
ancient greek sandals
cardia natural
Loeffler Randall
nico sandals
jack rogers
Margo Raffia Sandals
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