I’m a Wardrobe Stylist—These Are the 3 Trending (and Comfortable) Shoes Everyone Should Own This Summer.
Someone asked me the other day: if I could only recommend one shoe, what would it be? Um—no, we can’t have just one shoe. But I did respond. More on that later.
In thinking about it, you could smartly buy three pairs of shoes and cover all of your looks. And while I love a statement shoe—the embellished sandal you pack for vacation, the special heel you wear once but remember forever (my wedding shoes were like that—gorgeous silver Prada heels, and yes, I still have them), the sexy boots that turn every outfit into a look—those aren’t doing the heavy lifting.
If we’re talking real life, or if you’re new to fashion, sometimes you need to start with the basics. I mean, before you run, you learn how to walk.
Here are three trending styles I think everyone should own. They’re not just on-trend—they’re versatile, easy to wear, and comfortable. If you want to round out your summer wardrobe with shoes that earn their keep, start here:
1. The Sneakerina (a sneaker-ballet flat hybrid)
Think of these as your off-duty uniform’s best friend. Sneakerinas are softer and feel fresher and more feminine than the clunky sneakers we’ve seen, but more supportive and practical than your average flat. They also have range—working with shorts, summer dresses, jeans, and yes, even workout clothes (they’ll dress them up just enough). But I like that they still give everything a sporty edge—sometimes I don’t want to look too feminine.
2. The Woven or Mesh Flat
These breathe like sandals but polish like loafers. The woven or mesh flat has enough interest to feel styled but still plays well with most of what’s already in your closet. Wear them with flowy midi skirts, light denim, or even a minimal slip skirt on a warm night. They also work with a more casual office look—something relaxed but pulled together. If they have a little sparkle, hardware, or texture, they can easily lean into evening. They’re also perfect for vacations where you’re going from beach to dinner and don’t want to change shoes three times a day.
Tip: Go for soft leather or woven fabrics—if the material’s too stiff, they’ll dig in.
3. The Kitten Heel
Whether it’s a sandal or a closed-toe pump, the kitten heel gives you just enough without sacrificing comfort. It dresses up denim, can be worn with a suit, and works for the office, dinner, or any summer event where you want to feel refined without overdoing it. Find the right pair—that works with your style—and it will do more for your wardrobe than five pairs of trendy shoes combined. I love wearing them with shorts for a mix of feminine and casual.
Below, I’ve included some suggestions on options that work across different styles and budgets.
Enjoy!