Step into Summer with These 7 Sandal Trends for 2026
Open-toe season is finally upon us, which means it’s time to get my summer sandal game into gear and get a much-needed pedicure while I’m at it. I’m particularly excited to refresh my sandal assortment with new styles that feel fashion-forward for the spring and summer. For the past few weeks, I’ve been doing a deep dive into the specific styles the fashion set is embracing right now and analyzing the silhouettes that dominated on the spring/summer 2026 runways and, of course, what’s taking center stage at all popular brands and retailers. Below, I’m sharing seven sandal trends that are worth adding to your wardrobe this season, from elegant ‘90s thong sandals to nostalgic cool-girl wedges and decorative details. To make life even easier for you, all my picks are from Nordstrom — a perfect one-stop shop.
The shift toward elevated casual wear demonstrates a blurring of formal and informal styles, and the resurgence of ‘90s styles highlights a broader trend of nostalgic fashion. Let’s dive in and explore these key trends, ensuring you’re perfectly prepared for sunshine, picnics, and everything in between.
1. Wedge Sandals: A ‘90s Revival
Nineties wedge sandals are back for summer 2026, and the nostalgic shoe trend is already dominating among the fashion set. This season’s iterations are slender and sleek, particularly flip-flop silhouettes that marry comfort and style. The rise of the wedge is a fascinating reflection of broader trends – a desire for a little height without sacrificing the ease of a sandal. Consider this: the early 2000s saw a brief but impactful wave of chunky platforms, and now we’re experiencing a return to a more refined, understated height. It’s not about shouting; it’s about subtly elevating an outfit. The fact that these are primarily flip-flop styles speaks to a practical consideration – people want comfortable footwear that still feels put-together. The average person spends roughly 87,600 hours walking in their lifetime, so comfort is key when choosing footwear.
Reader Scenario: Imagine a reader who is attending a summer wedding and needs a sandal option that’s both stylish and comfortable. A sleek wedge flip-flop offers the perfect balance. The slight elevation adds a touch of formality, while the flip-flop design ensures that you can dance the night away without feeling like your feet are screaming for mercy.
Shop: Schutz Roslyn Wedge Sandal MANGO Bombay Wedge Sandal Steve Madden Seleste Wedge Slide Sandal Steve Madden Selest Wedge Slide Sandal Marc Fisher Udena Wedge Flip Flop Jeffrey Campbell Gigabyte Wedge Flip Flop Le Monde Béryl Micro Wedge Flip Flop (Nordstrom Exclusive)
2. Elegant Flip-Flops: Minimalist Chic
Refined and elevated leather flip-flops will continue their reign this summer, leaning into the chic ‘90s minimalist aesthetic. They’re incredibly versatile and work just as well with a dress for a beach vacation as they do with your tailored separates for the office. This trend isn’t just about comfort; it’s about a conscious choice to embrace simplicity and quality. The resurgence of leather flip-flops suggests a move away from overly synthetic materials and a desire for durable, timeless pieces. Leather, particularly vegetable-tanned leather, is a particularly sustainable choice – it develops a beautiful patina over time, becoming more unique with each wear. Furthermore, the upfront investment in a well-made leather flip-flop can actually save money in the long run, as it will last significantly longer than a cheaper synthetic alternative.
Mini Hook: This season’s iterations are slender and sleek.
Shop: rag & bone Gracie Flip Flop TOTEME The Flip Flop Flat Reformation Jessie Flip Flop Kate Spade New York Sandie Flip Flop
3. Heeled Thong Sandals: Adding a Touch of Glamour
If you want to go one step fancier than leather flip-flops, then heeled flip-flops (along with their cousin T-strap heels) are a standout style in every fashion person’s wardrobe, adding an elegant touch to casual summer pieces. The rise of the heeled flip-flop represents a subtle but significant shift in footwear expectations. It’s a way to add a little height and sophistication to an outfit without sacrificing comfort – a crucial consideration for many. The height of the heel can vary dramatically, from a barely-there 1/2 inch to a more substantial 2 inches, offering options for different levels of formality. A key component of this trend is the pairing with midi skirts and dresses – creating a lengthening effect and a stylish silhouette. Interestingly, the popularity of T-strap heels mirrors this trend, suggesting a broader desire for a touch of elegance in everyday footwear.
Reader Question: How do I choose the right heel height for heeled flip-flops? Start with your comfort level! A lower heel (1-1.5 inches) will feel more natural, while a higher heel (2-3 inches) will provide more lift. Consider the occasion and the type of outfit you’re wearing – a lower heel is better for daytime activities, while a higher heel is suitable for evening events.
Shop: Reformation Sophie Kitten Heel Flip Flop Tony Bianco Topaz Flip Flop Open Edit Tori Kitten Heel Sandal Dolce Vita Ramia Kitten Heel Flip Flop Proenza Schouler Tee Sandal Vagabond Shoemakers Evie Block Heel Flip Flop
4. Decorative Details: Adding Personality
A fresh wave of personality-driven embellished sandals are coming for our wardrobes this summer, adding a statement touch to our summer basics. From beads and sequins to bows and fringe, these sandals are all about expressing your individual style. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards embracing individuality and self-expression. People are increasingly looking for ways to personalize their wardrobes and stand out from the crowd. The use of embellishments on sandals is a playful way to achieve this – it’s a small detail that can make a big impact. The materials used for embellishments also matter – think natural fibers like raffia and jute for a bohemian vibe, or shimmering sequins for a touch of glamour. Consider the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for – a delicate floral appliqué might be perfect for a romantic summer wedding, while a bold beaded sandal would be ideal for a night out dancing.
Mini Hook: They’re incredibly versatile and work just as well with a dress for a beach vacation as they do with your tailored separates for the office.
Shop: Reformation Jessica Thong Sandal Gianvito Rossi Shanti Thong 05 Sandals Loeffler Randall Frank Slingback Sandal Jeffrey Campbell Bazaar Flip Flop La DoubleJ Medal Sandal Gyn White Kate Spade New York Carolina Kitten Heel Slide Sandal Sam Edelman Canna Ankle Strap Sandal
5. Jelly Sandals: Back in the Limelight
Jelly sandals are back in the limelight for the summer, bringing a playful and nostalgic touch to our wardrobes. Flip-flop styles are proving to be the most popular along with wedges and slides. This season, it’s all about experimenting with a variety of trending colors, from bold red to light blue. The resurgence of jelly sandals is a fascinating example of how trends can be cyclical, drawing inspiration from decades past. Jelly shoes were incredibly popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, and now they’re making a comeback. This trend taps into a sense of nostalgia and a desire for fun and playful footwear. The material itself – PVC – is relatively inexpensive to produce, making jelly sandals an accessible trend for a wide range of consumers. The key to styling jelly sandals is to pair them with more sophisticated outfits – a midi dress or tailored trousers can balance out the playful vibe.
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Reader Question: What are some ways to style elevated leather flip-flops beyond just beach or poolside wear? Try pairing them with a midi skirt and a crisp white shirt for a chic and effortless look. Alternatively, dress them up with a flowy maxi dress and some delicate jewelry. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and textures – a metallic leather flip-flop would look stunning with a black dress.
Shop: Ancient Greek Sandals Saionara Jelly Flip Flop Steve Madden Tracie Kitten Heel Flip Flop BLACK SUEDE STUDIO Jeli Sandal Sam Edelman Michaela Jelly Mary Jane Flat FARM Rio Jelly Flat Flip Flop Steve Madden Grove Jelly Flat
6. Color-Blocked Sandals: A Joyful Trend
While red-and-black flip-flops are going strong, you can also have fun with rich jewel tones and mixed textures. The color-blocked sandal trend is one of the most joyful sandal trends this season. It’s all about combining different colors and patterns to create a visually striking effect. This trend reflects a desire for bold and expressive footwear – people are looking for ways to inject a little personality into their outfits. The key to pulling off a color-blocked sandal is to choose colors that complement each other. Consider using a monochromatic palette – different shades of the same color – for a more subtle effect. Alternatively, you can opt for contrasting colors – such as black and pink or blue and orange – for a more dramatic look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures – a sandal with a suede strap and a leather base would add visual interest.
Reader Scenario: For someone who works in a creative field and wants to express their personal style through footwear. A color-blocked sandal can be a fantastic way to showcase their individuality. Pair it with a bold printed dress and a statement necklace to create a truly memorable look.
Shop: Yosi Samra Giselle Flip Flop Fendi Arco Slingback Sandal Stuart Weitzman Marykate Flip Flop
7. Thick-Strap Sandals: Comfortable and Chic
Thick-strap sandals are a comfortable and chic option to reach for, and we saw the trend on the runways of Miu Miu and Ralph Lauren. They’re the perfect option on those summer days when longer walks are involved. The resurgence of ‘90s styles highlights a broader trend of nostalgic fashion. These sandals offer a secure and comfortable fit, while also providing a touch of style. The thick straps not only add a visual element but also provide support for the foot. They’re particularly well-suited for activities like walking, hiking, and exploring – making them a practical choice for the active traveler. The versatility of these sandals reflects a desire for adaptable wardrobes. They can be dressed up or down, making them a wardrobe staple for any season.
Mini Hook: The resurgence of ‘90s styles highlights a broader trend of nostalgic fashion.
Shop: FRANKIE4 Finn Slingback Sandal Madewell Maximillian Two Strap Sandal Stuart Weitzman Marykate Ankle Strap Sandal MANGO Ankle Strap Leather Sandal Penelope Chil
Concluding Note: As you prepare your sandal collection for summer 2026, remember that the key to staying stylish is to choose footwear that not only looks good but also feels good. These seven trends offer a diverse range of options to suit every taste and occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and colors to create a wardrobe that reflects your unique personality and complements your summer adventures!
