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Spanish shoe designer Manolo Blahnik told Glamour years ago that “shoes help transform a woman.” And it does seem that the right pair can help to change our posture and the way we walk, and of course, our attitude. Shoes are the styling secret to look amazing in any outfit. And with summer upon us, the focus is all about choosing sandals, but that doesn’t mean the options have to be boring. Here we’ve made a compilation of nine designs that are at the top of the fashion trend lists, based on the latest in street style and the runways.
Thong sandals, refined
These are easy sandals to wear and are more sophisticated than flip-flops. The styles that are on trend this season – like the ones seen on the Rejina Pyo runway – have an open back, wider straps on the top, and flirty kitten heels.
Natural
In soft leather and with the characteristic front strap, the Heeled Leather Squre Toe Sandals from Zara ($89.90) will be your best friend this summer.
Open-toe
Sliding your feet into these Thong Sandals by the Paris Texas will help create a continuous line that elongates the legs (Shopbop, $480).
Gladiators to flaunt
The sandals that evoke the glory days of the Roman Empire are making their triumphant return this year, with fashion bloggers like Alexandra Lapp rushing to add them to their summer closets. The most obvious difference this season is the height of the straps, which now come up to the calves, ideal for being tied over the pant legs for a style that stands out.
RELATED: Now hear us out: tying your sandals over your pants is seriously the hottest fashion trend right now
Flat and metallic
These Gladiator Capri Sandals by Alumnae have a less-than-one inch heel and come in a lovely bronze color, with a side buckle (Revolve, $495).
Versatile
Do you want to create ultra-feminine looks with your mini dresses and Bermuda shorts? Then go with the Mocktail Gold Snake Sandals by Steve Madden ($100).
Ultra-chunky platforms
Meanwhile maximalist platform sandals bring back the retro spirit of the Seventies with an alternative twist: esparto rope soles. The result is a perfect hybrid of the espadrilles that are so characteristic of summer style. Simone Rocha complemented this pair made of PVC with embellishments and tights!
RELATED: Espadrilles are back, and we’ve got the hottest designs for this summer
Jute finish
As these Ali Sport Sandals by Soludos show, jute makes all the difference, adding texture and bringing back memories of festival outfits (Revolve, $129).
Tempting
If you prefer a statement look, the best shoes to complement it are these Blackout Platform Espadrilles by Simon Miller made of raffia and patent leather (Shopbop, $490).
Mules with bows
A variation of the traditional Swedish design, although much lighter and more sophisticated, mules are once again a summer trend. This year they come with an embellishment: bows. They were one of the pleasant surprises seen on the Cynthia Rowley runway.
Classic slip-on
Quite possibly the most comfortable type of sandals, the candy-striped Emilia Pleated Knot Mule by Loeffler Randall are perfect on hot days (Revolve, $350).
A printed version
Polka dots are one of the most consistent prints in fashion. Combine a power suit or a lingerie dress with the Polka Dot Bow Sandals by Charlotte Olympia (Shopbop, $351).
Ankle-wrap sandals
Another one of the key fashion trends in footwear are wrap-sandals in bright or neutral colors. The underlying feature is created from the intricate straps that wrap around to hold or adorn the feet. If the focus is on the ankles, the hem should be high, as shown by Leonie Hanne.
Pure sensuality
Made of green suede and featuring ultra-thin straps, the Enna Heel by LPA is the perfect shoe to complement any wedding guest look (Revolve, $91).
Ankle trends
Make a statement with the Zingy High Heel Sandals by Aldo ($100). With their multicolored single tubular strap and high heels, you’ll definitely stand out from the crowd.
Flat sporty sandals
Although they may fall into the “ugly” category, flat sandals with a nineties-vibe have found their place in street style. With or without logos, they add a unique appeal to casual outfits, athleisure outfits with joggers, or more daring outfits with asymmetric dresses.
RELATED: Dad sandals: the unexpected hit of the summer
With a sporty touch
The Tanjun Sandals by Nike combine comfortable cushioning with a marked sporty-style. Perfect to complement a pair of jeans or denim jacket (DSW, $44.99).
Everyday sandals
Are you looking for a new fashion ally? The Flat Hook-and-Loop Strap Sandals by Massimo Dutti ($130) will be your new favorites.