Best Foot Forward: Why I’m Declaring Summer 2025 the Season of the Flat Sandal
Well, girls we’ve officially entered Shorter Hemline Era. I declared it to my group chat last month (capri pants are clinging for relevance but I’m standing firm). And as I strutted down King Street last weekend in my favorite shorts and matching top, it hit me: this summer isn’t just about higher hemlines. It’s also the summer of the flat heel sandal.
I know. Breathe.
Coming from someone who’s a proud 5'2" and clings to every inch of added height like it's an extra glass of rosé during happy hour, this is a bold claim. But hear me out.
The Flat Sandal Renaissance
For years I avoided flat sandals. I feared the dreaded ankle blister and convinced myself a bit of heel was “just more flattering.” I also thought Grecian sandals looked like something the high school Latin teacher would’ve worn on a field trip to the Parthenon (bless her), but chic? I didn’t see it.
Then... curiosity got the best of me.
I ordered a pair with an ankle strap that came highly recommended by a bestie (who swore she walked across slippery Santorini hills in them without a single complaint). I figured: let’s test this. Two 10,000 step days later and not a blister in sight. I posted them to Instagram stories, and suddenly, my DMs lit up with testimonials. “I’ve worn these all over Italy!” “My go to for everyday summer looks !” “I have three pairs!” I immediately ordered the brown. Then debated the butter yellow. And suddenly I was all over the brand’s website (shhh) like a woman possessed. PS my friend had on these YSL dupes that fooled my discerning eye. I bought them immediately!
My Favorite Flat Picks (Because I Love You)
Ankle strap leather sandals: Sleek enough for city walking, elevated enough for rooftop cocktails. I wear mine with mini dresses or longer tailored shorts and a boxy blouse
Non ankle strap sandals: These rival a certain Hermès icon, but at a better price and more width options. Perfect for poolside hangs or a dressed down dinner with white jeans and a tank
Comfy wrap sandals: These stay put (thank you, ankle wrap gods) and look just as chic with a gauzy white dress as they do with cropped jeans and a striped tee
Evening ready sandals: Think metallic, strappy, maybe even a little shimmer. Perfect with a slip dress for summer parties when you want comfort without killing the vibe
And let’s not forget my ballet flats in raffia and denim (same dreamy brand), which make even errands feel like a fashion moment.
The Row Made Me Do It
Still not sold on flat sandals? Let’s talk about flip flops. The Row gave the green light, and suddenly everyone from Vogue editors to your favorite influencers are wearing them off the beach. And listen I’ve scolded my husband for wearing rubber flip flops to walk the dog in Charleston, but I am absolutely on board with the new wave of jelly and PVC styles. Chic, minimalist, and honestly… fun. I found a tortoise shell pair (under $70) that pairs beautifully with white linen, chocolate brown, navy, or an all black evening look.
These aren’t your college era flip flops. These are sophisticated, breathable, truly wearable shoes for women who want to look polished without sacrificing comfort. Picture this: Charleston brunch in a puff sleeve mini and jelly flip flops. Strolling downtown in a belted linen romper and jelly thong kitten heel sandals ($100). Evening spritz in this iconic ss cotton midi dress and clog jellies or ballet style jellies (own and so comfy!). Add a raffia bag and gold hoops and… voilà. Effortlessly elevated.
Other Styles to Keep an Eye On
Toe ring sandals: Elegant, understated, and cool. These give me breezy Capri meets French Riviera energy. Wear them with a flowy caftan. They’re perfect for travel or a date night
Toffee Brown Sneakers: These are all the rage amongst our beloved Parisian girls. They look chic with all white and neutral outfits. And you can take them into Fall
Boat shoes: I know. But British Vogue says it’s the year of the boat shoe (I love this slim feminine version), and who are we to argue? Think less “boarding school boyfriend,” more “sleek East Coast summer.” These are great with shorts or a cotton shirtdress (great price) when you want to channel low key cool
In Conclusion: Heels Who?
Look, I’m not swearing off heeled sandals forever, but I am leaning into the idea that style doesn't have to be painful. If your shoe looks like a work of art but feels like medieval torture, let’s reconsider.
This summer, let’s give our feet a break and still look insanely good doing it.
You can shop more of my picks here and here and see how I’m styling them all on Instagram: “byholley” and my shopmy page.
Let’s keep this chic, blister free summer going.
xo, Holley'
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