These Will Be The *Sandal* Styles Every Fashionista Will Be Wearing This Summer

Spring has just started here in the UK, and even though we’re still feeling the chilly weather, I’m determined to make the most of shoe season this year. So, of course, this means that I already have my eyes on the trending sandal trends that I will be investing in as soon as possible.

My first port of call? The runway, of course, and the spring/summer 2026 shows were filled with a wide variety of sandals that are set to dominate the coming season. You’ll be happy to know that there’s something for everyone this season, from the understated styles that those of us with the latest sense of style will love, to playful jelly skaters in bold outfits. And after hours of reading books by my favorite designers, I’ve narrowed my thoughts down to seven sandal styles that everyone will be wearing this summer.

Keep scrolling to discover seven sandal trends set to rule the summer of 2026.

7 Sandal Trends Every Fashionista Will Be Wearing This Summer

1. Snake skin

(Image credit: Mugler, Avant Toi Spring/Summer 2026/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Style Notes: In the last two years, we have seen leopards, cows and even deer taking over the footwear market. However, for 2026, fashionistas have their eyes on a classic model that minimalists and maximalists can get behind. Add snakeskin sandals. With a pattern that’s bold enough to add interest to an outfit, but a color palette that’s still muted and versatile, I have a feeling we’ll be seeing snakeskin sandals everywhere this summer.

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2. Locals

(Image credit: Ujoh, Tove Spring/Summer 2026/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Style Notes: If you are a modern dresser, you will be happy to know that minimalist, casual shoes-there are also good trends for the summer of 2026. Timeless, easy to style and functional, you can’t go wrong by investing in a pair of minimalist sandals to save your wardrobe for many years to come. But the best part? This polished summer shoe style looks great at every price point, meaning there’s something to suit every budget this year.

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3. Jelly

(Image credit: Susan Fang, Simone Rocha Spring/Summer 2026/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Style Notes: From Caroline Bessette-Kennedy’s dresses to the chic makeup trends that are making a comeback, it’s clear that 2026 is the year of the ’90s fashion revival. However, one trend I didn’t expect to start this season was jelly sandals. Reminiscent of the playful styles of shoes that were popular in the late 1990s and early 1900s, jelly sandals are back, but now, in a more wearable, more defined way that makes styling easier.

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4. Wedge Flip-Flops

(Image credit: Zimmermann, Kate Barton Spring/Summer 2026/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Style Notes: If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear, you’ll know that we love summer float. But for the year 2026, this timeless sandal trend gets a major upgrade in the form of wedge heels. More suitable for formal occasions than your old flip-flops, I’ll be trying to find this chic sandal style for summer outings.

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5. Buckle Details

(Image credit: Cynthia Rowley, Ferrari Spring/Summer 2026/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Style Notes: You don’t always need a high heel or a bold color to add interest to your shoe collection. Sometimes, it’s all about the fine details, and for the summer of 2026, buckle decorations dominated the runways. This simple yet classy design is an easy way to make your clothes feel a little cooler, but also stay within the comfort level of a skinny person like me.