If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
10 Summer Shoe Trends to Give Your Outfits an Instant Upgrade


@alamedaturquesa / Instagram
In This Article
Heeled Flip-Flops
Retro Sneakers
Toe Ring Sandals
3D Flower Details
Resort-Ready Raffia
Gladiator Revival
All Wrapped Up
Boat Shoes
Elevated Jelly
Bold Cowboy Boots
Key Takeaways
- Summer’s top shoe trends feature bold twists on staple silhouettes, from toe ring sandals to next-level cowboy boots.
- We’ve compiled a curation of picks for every taste, all of which will make your footwear collection feel that much more special.
It’s time to step into summer. We couldn’t be more excited to once again embrace warm-weather outfits featuring statement-making swimwear and whimsical jewelry. Of course, thoughtful footwear is also a key part of the outfit equation. If you’re tired of last year’s pair of flip-flops or are simply curious about which buzzy silhouettes are making a comeback, you’ll find sartorial bliss in the maximalist details, bold hues, and textural finishes that await below. Read on to see 10 of the top summer shoe trends of 2025, complete with product picks to fit every taste.
Heeled Flip-Flops


@tonybianco / Instagram
The return of the humble flip-flop dominated last summer, through which we saw the rise of thong kitten heels—and now, the elevated staple is set to take center stage. Available in neutrals, statement hues, and on-trend animal prints, this trending shoe is ideal for the city dweller who wants a chic way to bring their vacation footwear favorites into everyday territory.
Product Picks
Retro Sneakers


@pumasportstyle / Instagram
Continuing a phenomenon that started with the rise of Adidas Sambas, retro sneakers in all their forms are continuing their reign this summer. To keep the look feeling fresh, prioritize bold hues, slim silhouettes, and textural finishes—and definitely consider some accessorized kicks.
Product Picks
Toe Ring Sandals


@modeetchien / Instagram
With metal accents being one of the biggest handbag trends of recent seasons, it’s no wonder that the look has made its way to footwear. Toe ring sandals have fast become the most forward-thinking, unexpected way to step out in style this summer. While you can find variations in leather and other fabrics, the most popular version features a prominent piece of gold or silver (or maybe even mixed metals) right at the big toe. Just add a few anklets, and you’re sure to feel adorned yet never overdone.
Product Picks
3D Flower Details


@alamedaturquesa / Instagram
Floral details may always be popular in spring, leading to the infamous Miranda Priestly quote as well as one of this year’s biggest handbag trends, but now, it’s summer’s turn to get the 3D bloom treatment. This season, you’ll spot tropical and abstract motifs galore serving as unmissable centerpieces to all our favorite sandal styles, especially the kitten heel variety.
Product Picks
Resort-Ready Raffia


@dolcevita / Instagram
Raffia accessories return to fashion every summer, and this season is especially exciting in the footwear department. The time-honored woven material has made its way to streamlined mules, dainty ballet flats, and more, leaning into a resort-luxe aesthetic that would feel right at home on The White Lotus. Just add breezy linen pieces and some statement jewelry, and you’ll have a winning summer look.
Product Picks
Gladiator Revival


@ancientgreeksandals / Instagram
If you’ve been dreaming of a Mediterranean getaway, this summer shoe trend is for you. Gladiator sandals are experiencing a resurgence in both classic and updated designs, bringing an air of Greco-Roman chic to all our warm-weather looks. Pair yours with a sundress or bohemian maxi skirt to feel blissfully effortless for vacation dinners, afternoon shopping trips, and more.
Product Picks
All Wrapped Up


@margauxny / Instagram
Providing the most elegant little upgrade to your favorite sandal styles, the ankle wrap is taking over as the detail of the season. This trend has a bit of a pointe shoe ribbon-inspired vibe, adding an extra touch of elegance to would-be slides, thong styles, and party-ready heels.
Product Picks
Boat Shoes


@sperry / Instagram
Whether you’re setting sail this summer or looking to embody a breezier energy on land, boat shoes are back. Sperry has been collaborating with fashion heavy-hitters like Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Aritzia, plus many beloved brands have been launching their versions of the classic footwear. The result? A style to fit every taste, be it an unexpected denim moment or lush suede finishes.
Product Picks
Elevated Jelly


@squareshop_official / Instagram
Jelly shoes made a grand return to the forefront of trends last summer, and now they’ve reached sophisticated new heights. Elegant yet mildly unconventional jelly flats and mules are everywhere, as are translucent, Y2K-inspired takes on resort-ready sandals.
Product Picks
Bold Cowboy Boots


@lucchese / Instagram
With cowboy boots remaining a staple—both for Western cultural moments, like the Cowboy Carter tour, and for everyday going-out moments—it’s no wonder that the creativity of their designs has reached a new level. Metallics feel on point for summer, as do color-block styles in summer’s top trending hues and fantastical graphic details.
Product Picks
Source URL: https://www.byrdie.com/summer-shoe-trends-11742819

