Summer should be spent doing exactly two things: showing off your toes and feeling generally fabulous. Flat sandals are a quick and easy way to achieve both.
Eliminating the fuss of high-heeled designs, this type of less-is-more footwear keeps you grounded (get it?) while still delivering the fun styling opportunities of fisherman slip-ons and platform slides.
How to wear flat sandals
It’s easy to assume that because flat sandals have no heel (or a very tiny one), they’re a strictly minimalist choice. On the contrary, they are incredibly aesthetically versatile. Less hardware makes them more lightweight, meaning you can play with shapes and textures in your clothing choices.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LAUNCHMETRICS.COM/SPOTLIGHT
If your flat sandals are simple and black (like those pictured above), style with a playful pattern and foot-reaching fringe. Want your flats to make more of a statement? Try a pair with a long strap that can be wrapped up to reach your calves.
When in doubt, experiment with colour. Silver and gold continue to trend as outfit add-ons, so consider investing in a pair of flat sandals that have a sleek reflective hue. With the right shoe choice and a great pedicure, you’re set for a winning sunny season.
Our fave flat sandals for summer 2024
Best overall
Steve Madden Women’s Hadyn sandal
These slip-on Steve Madden sandals are both an uncomplicated footwear option and a visually intriguing statement. With a suede outer make and a faded denim upper, they are the perfect choice for showing off your summer pedi in style.
The winning design element is the cutout-filled straps, which adds some geometric newness to the classic slide-on shoe. Available in 12 colours, they’re sure to be a staple in your rotation. And just think how perfect they would look with a denim jumpsuit.
Pros
Available in 12 colours
Trendy denim design
Reviewers love how comfortable they are
Cons
These are not water-resistant, so they’re not ideal for rainy weather
Best budget
Amazon Essentials casual strappy sandals
Featuring leather lining and a straightforward secure buckle closure, these flat sandals are an easy everyday pick. With over 9,000 ratings and a price tag that starts at under $25, they’re a crowd-pleaser with a strappy asymmetrical edge.
Plus, their lightweight feel makes them the ideal easy-to-pack travel companion.
Pros
Quality flat sandals starting at less than $25
Available in five colours
Reviewers love how comfortable they are
Cons
Some reviewers say they run small, so consider sizing up if you’re in between sizes
Best rated
Dream Pairs Elatica sandal
The standout feature of these flat sandals is the thick elastic straps that mould perfectly to fit your feet. Without any buckles or adjustable closures, they’re crafted to hug your foot for all-day maximum comfort.
Made using high-quality faux leather and a non-slip rubber outsole, they promise plenty of stability and longevity. And the minimalist finish makes them extra versatile.
Pros
No buckle closure for easy slip-on styling
Available in 20 colours
Slingback design with ankle support
Cons
Some reviewers note that they wish there was slightly more cushion in the soles
Best gold flat sandals
The Drop Samantha lace-up sandal
You can never go wrong with gladiator sandals, and these gilded iterations are double the fun. Putting a modern twist on the classic sandal style, the gold strappy design exudes contemporary sophistication. Plus, the cork outsole means they have a durable edge.
Whether you wear them solo with a linen dress or step things up by lacing them around a pair of loose-fitting trousers, these sandals will shine as part of any outfit.
Pros
Available in eight colours and prints, including snake-print, rustic cork and shiny silver
A modern spin on the classic gladiator aesthetic
Reviewers are impressed by the support of the padded soles
Cons
Reviewers say these run slightly narrow, so they may not be the best for those with wider feet
Best black flat sandals
Colgo flat sandals
Elevate your everyday look with a blend of under-the-radar chicness and uncompromising comfort. On these Colgo flat sandals, the adjustable buckle closure ensures a snug fit, while the soft latex insole keeps your feet feeling pampered.
With a sleek black finish and subtle gold hardware, they’re made to fit any summertime uniform.
Pros
Non-slip rubber outsoles ensure a durable grip
Available in 21 colours
Adjustable ankle support
Cons
These are not water-resistant, so they’re not ideal for rainy weather
Best white flat sandals
Reformation Ludo strappy flat sandal
The beauty is in the details with these ultra-sleek white Reformation flat sandals. Crafted with almond leather and a durable rubber outsole, they offer a supple feel for your foot with the added bonus of easy walking.
Featuring a rounded toe shape and a thin minimalist strap, they have the right amount of structural intrigue and a hit of quiet luxury coolness.
Pros
Available in six colours
Supple leather
Timeless flat sandals for women you’ll wear for years
Cons
Reviewers say these run slightly narrow
Best silver flat sandals
Shoe Land Anisha slip-on slides
In a rich silver hue and lush quilted fabric, these slip-resistant sandals are the perfect outfit finishing touch. The secure outsole promises stability and safety, while the one-band upper fits snugly without any discomfort.
Complete with a soft padded memory foam insole, you can simply slide them on and experience all-day coziness.
Pros
Available in 15 colours
Easy slip-on styling
Intricate quilted detailing adds styling intentionality
Price starts at less than $25
Cons
Some reviewers note that they run big, so consider sizing down if you’re in between sizes
Best luxury
Seychelles Lilac sandal
Nothing says sun-bathing ease like a pair of intricate sandals. These ultra-strappy shoes by Seychelles emit all that vacation-ready ease. With a manmade sole and a leather upper, they don’t skimp on craftsmanship for a wearability that feels indulgent.
The square toe silhouette and adjustable ankle closure work together for a finish that is both refined and casual. For ultimate carefree coolness, pair them with a white flowy maxi skirt and a crochet top.
Pros
Available in three colours
Adjustable ankle strap for a secure fit
Plush leather lining
Cons
Reviewers say these run slightly narrow, so they may not be the best for those with wider feet
Best for men
Brunello Cucinelli tonal suede slides
If you’re investing in but one pair of flat slide-on sandals for men, let it be these Brunello Cucinelli gems. With a style that oozes built-in convenience, they have an elegant finish thanks to the quality suede upper and midsole.
Made in Italy, they are filled with luxe detailing — like the two-tone colour palette and the intricate crisp stitching.
Pros
Buttery suede feel and two-toned finish for an elegant appearance
Versatile brown tone that complements an array of colour palettes
Easy slip-on styling
Cons
These are pricier than other options
Best leather
Etsy leather sandals
Looking for quality leather sandals? Don’t opt for anything but the best. These handmade flats are an Etsy top seller because of the exquisite construction and elevated finish.
Crafted with genuine cowhide leather, they have an unmatched elegance with an anti-slip durable rubber sole for easy wearability. Inspired by Greek design, they offer a secure fit that hugs your foot, toe and ankle.
Pros
Available in four colours
Handmade with high-quality craftsmanship
Made of leather for a strong but flexible feel that embraces your foot
Cons
Because these are handmade, no two pairs are exactly the same, meaning one should expect some slight styling variation when ordering these
Best fisherman style
Everlane The Day fisherman sandal
We put these as one of our top choices for fisherman sandals because they are soft, supple and ultra-high quality. Plus, their flat fit gives them the minimalist stamp of approval.
Made of Nappa leather and available in three neutral colours, they deliver a pillowy texture and closed-toe support if you’re looking for extra security.
Pros
Monochromatic minimalist finish
Available in three colours
The handcrafted design promises long-lasting durability
Cons
Because of their high-quality leather construction, these are not water-resistant and should only be spot cleaned
Best dressy
Melissa Ivy slides II
These tortoise-shell print flats bring a one-and-done dose of dressiness to any evening outfit. With an open-toe design and a grip rubber sole, they also double as a casual everyday footwear choice.
Featuring two straps — a thinner slinky band followed by a thick patterned one — they deliver more charm than your typical slide-on design.
Pros
Glossy finish for a refined aesthetic
Double strap design adds visual uniqueness
Rubber sole
Cons
Only available in one colour
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