Don’t look now, but summer is coming! It’s time to nail down those vacation plans, plan long weekend getaways, and refresh your wardrobe. And let’s be real: There’s always a surprising summer shoe trend that creeps up until it’s nearly ubiquitous. Last summer, the mesh flat reigned supreme, proving weird shoes—although polarizing—can find their way into the mainstream.
Boat shoes hit the spring/summer 2024 runways last September and are now having their comeback—so it’s safe to say you’ll be seeing them this season. Additionally, we’re continuing with the oddballs of summer with ugly-chic grandma shoes (that work in the right way), Mary Janes, and more.
If you’re looking to up your footwear game before the hottest months of the year officially arrive, keep scrolling to find out what your favorite influencers and style icons will be rocking all summer long.
Whatever Happened to Mary Janes?
The preppy trend of 2024 isn’t going anywhere—not if these shoes have anything to do with it. From the mule iterations at Loewe and Tory Burch to the fun-loving styles at Collina Strada and Bally, the Mary Jane is a classic that can be dressed up and down.
Hereu Sio Polished Mary Jane Loafer
Dr. Martens Double Strap Mary Jane
Loewe Campo Mary Jane Mule
The Thong Sandal
The unsung hero of every summer (no matter where you are), the thong sandal, made its return to the high fashion runways by way of Chanel, Burberry, and more. The ELLE team is particularly into the slightly heeled versions we’re seeing across the market.
Zara Kitten Heel Sandals
Aeyde Wilma Sandal
Reformation Gisele Thong Sandal
Ugly-Chic Shoes
These might be your grandma’s shoes, but that’s why we like them. The intentionally odd, clunky shoes we saw on the runways at Prada and Miu Miu give an effortless, unpolished effect to classic fashion silhouettes—and that’s why we’re intrigued.
Prada Satin Mules
The Row Charlotte Pump
Veronica Beard Cecile Croco Bow Low Pumps
Crochet Flats
This trend is a natural progression from the mesh flat madness that happened last summer. Brands like JW Anderson and Simone Rocha sent down knit flats that could easily pair with a crochet top, bag, or skirt…because, let’s be honest, there’s never too much crochet when it comes to summertime fashion.
Loro Piana Floaty Flat Moccasin Slipper
HYOVA Chaotic Ballerinas
JW Anderson Crochet Cotton Slip-On Loafers
Jewelry On Shoes
Ever since Tory Burch introduced the Pierced Mule a few seasons ago, the fashion world has been adorning its shoes with metal jewels and baubles that make a statement. We particularly love Alaïa’s haute-chic take on the trend.
Tory Burch Pierced Mule
Amanu Samburu 24K Gold-Plated Leather Sandals
Alaïa Shark Jewel Pumps
The Low-Profile Jogger
Blokecore is coming up in waves on TikTok, and the Brit-prep style finds its roots on the runway, specifically with the knockout green Dries Van Noten sneaker, which sold out everywhere. This low-lift, low-rise sneaker is the high-fashion antidote to the Adidas Samba.
CELINE Jogger Low Lace-Up Sneaker
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 ‘Cacao Brown’
