Rising temperatures and longer evenings in the UK can only mean one thing: sandal season will soon be upon us. But as much as I love reaching for flip-flops, fisherman flats and jelly sandals on my holidays, I have to admit that I’m not quite ready to wear them in London. Not only am I constantly worried about the danger of coffee dripping on my bare feet while commuting to work, but the constant possibility of rain and sudden temperature drops also makes me worried about fully committing to getting my toes out.
Because of this, I made it my mission to find some new shoe options to round out my seasonal capsule. And after hours of scrolling through Instagram, I’ve already found five shoe trends to wear this summer, and they’re all just as cute as any sandal trend offered this season. Perfectly striking the balance between timeless and avant-garde, the summer shoe trends are set to dominate in 2026, the perfect choice for those of us who like to pack away our sandals for the holidays. And the best part? Most likely you already have at least one of them.
From cool-girl mesh ballet flats to polished penny loafers, keep scrolling to discover five summer shoe trends I’ll be wearing instead of sandals this season.
1. Boat Shoes
Style Notes: Boat shoes are a shoe style I’ve been seeing everywhere lately, from my Instagram feed to my commute to the Tube. They bring a sense of easy elegance to any summer outfit, not to mention they look expensive at every price point.
Shop for shoes:
Miu Miu
bleached leather deck shoes
I’ve seen these on a lot of influencers recently.
free people
Seize the Day Boat Shoes
A color that will go with everything.
I would wear it with white linen.
Tommy Hilfiger
Lightweight Suede Lace-Up Boat Shoes
This suede iteration is calling to me.
2. High-Vamp Heels
Style Notes: I’ve never been one to wear heels, but the recent high-vamp trend of girls wearing them is slowly inspiring me to try them. They bring a sense of instant shine to everything from jeans and linen trousers to Bermuda shorts and slip skirts.
Shop for shoes:
AEYDE
Clara Leather Pumps
Failure to earn praise.
Khaite
cecilia leather pumps
3. Mesh Ballet Flats
Style Notes: I’ve always been a fan of ballet flats, but to keep them feeling fresh for summer 2026, I’ll be opting for chic mesh iterations that look and feel good in warmer weather.
Shop for shoes:
Alaiya
Mesh and Suede Ballet Flats
The mesh flat that started it all.
whistle
Black Lasercut Ballet Pump
Simple, attractive and easy to style.
pull and Bear
crochet ballerina shoes
The perfect leisure shoe.
Mango
Ballet flats with mesh bracelet
These could easily pass as designer.
4. Penny Loafers
Style Notes: Perfect for in or out of the office, a penny loafer will bring a sense of instant elegance to your summer attire. I personally already have a black pair, so for the new season, I’m looking for some different but understated colors to invest in.
Shop for shoes:
YSL
Le Loafer Spl in shiny leather
YSL loafers are at the top of my luxury wish list.
Many of my fellow editors own a pair of Zara loafers.
Chocolate suede will always get a yes from me.
Michael Kors
Jennings Leather Loafer
Wear equally well with jeans, skirts and linen trousers.
5. Minimal Trainer
Style Notes: Defined by their slim-fit silhouettes, easy-to-wear neutral colors and, of course, no logos in sight, the minimalist Trainers have quickly become a favorite among skilled dressers and editors.
Shop for shoes:
puma
Speedcat OG Trainer
I have these in 4 different colors.
store controller
Minimal Pony-Hair Trainers
COS Minimal trainers are constantly selling out, so act fast!
i+em
retro runner trainer
No one will believe these are from the High Street.
prada
Collapse Re-Nylon and Suede Elasticated Sneakers
This pair has a retro feel.
