The Best Sandals To Strap Onto Your Feet

It’s still summertime, baby, which means sandal season is in full swing. While trends come and go, sandals will always be a warm-weather must-have. From strappy, barely there sandals to chunky wedges, there’s a pair for every style, outfit, and budget. Overwhelmed by all the options? We’ve consolidated several of our favorite comfortable sandal brands and styles into a best-of-the-best summer sandals guide (and included a few other trends we’re loving for our feet).

To make the list, we looked at a number of factors, including overall comfort level, trendiness, price point, and use. For instance, we love that our readers are the types to need hiking sandals in the morning and dancefloor-ready heeled sandals in the evening. Or, perhaps there’s a practical need for a chic waterproof sandal that’s appropriate for both a beach day and a rainy dinner date. Maybe you’re a prudent shopper in the market for sensible (and obviously cute) orthopedic sandals that won’t cramp your OOTD. Whatever kind of sandal you need, the internet shall deliver.

One major thing to keep in mind is that we are talking shoes, which means that depending on the sandal, a break-in period is absolutely necessary and to be expected. But once that’s done, you’ll have that perfectly molded-to-you shoe. Ahead, our summer sandals guide provides you with some of the best toe-wiggling, pedicure-friendly styles.

Best Platform Sandals

Let’s get high — off the ground, that is. Platform sandals continue to be a favorite summer shoe style because these height-boosters are generally more comfortable than actual heels. Plus, the chunky sole can provide cushioning between you and the hard floor or sidewalk. Check out platform sandals with thick soles made from lightweight natural cork or natural rubber — or for a cute, weaved style, give espadrilles a go. 

Best Cheap, Under-$15 Sandals

Sometimes we just need an unfussy pair of affordable sandals to get us through the season. Luckily, the internet has plenty to offer via fashion hard hitters like ASOS and Old Navy. At such gentle price points, you won’t be shy about wearing them to death. 

Best Closed-Toe Sandals

The biggest closed-toe sandal trend this year is the fisherman sandal, which is ideal for anyone who wants to go a little longer between pedicures. Another classic staple in this category is huaraches, which are hand-woven braided sandals originating from Mexico. Also, consider the peep-toe style — like a Menorcan Avarca sandal — which has just a wee opening at the front that we promise won’t expose whole toes.

Best Hiking & Sport Sandals

Fabulous for hiking, camping, or general sporting, these strappy waterproof sandals are designed to stay secure on your feet at all times — no matter if you’re wading in a river or hitting the trails. In terms of being nature-friendly, the best outdoor sandals check off all boxes: They’re quick-dry, have grippy traction soles, and boast comfy EVA-cushioned footbeds.

Best Slides

For the ultimate out-the-door-in-seconds shoe, it doesn’t get better than the slide. It’s such an easy and effortless silhouette that you’ll find it everywhere. Your fave activewear brand likely has its own version of the slide sandal, as does your fave shoe designer. We pulled a few unique slide sandal styles here, many of which also include decent arch support.

Best Heeled Sandals (That Are Actually Comfortable)

Comfortable, cute heels aren’t an oxymoron — if you know what to look for. The key is finding shoes with trendy details that still keep you (relatively) close to the ground, like sandals from “comfortable shoe” brands like Camper. Prefer a chunkier step? A heeled platform clog, like this style from Nisolo, will give you a lift without any of the pain. 

Best Waterproof Sandals For The Beach Or Pool

Chances are you’ll be hitting the pool or beach before summer ends, and you’ll need waterproof sandals tasked to take you there and back. Look for PCU or synthetic material that dry fast and won’t warp or get soggy when they get wet. Molded footbeds and fun patterns and designs also help these utilitarian shoes have a bit of style. For a day-to-night waterproof sandal that makes you look even more put-together, opt for a pool shoe with a slingback strap.

Best Orthopedic Sandals

Somewhere along the way, orthopedic shoe brands — Dr. Scholl’s and BeautiFeel, just to name a couple — have become ultra-stylish and trendy. (And, no, not in an ironic way.) Depending on your foot preferences, seek out squishy EVA footbeds that can help absorb your steps. These comfort-focused brands also offer good arch and ankle support and are a great all-day option for travel or work.

Best Wide Fit Sandals

Wide-feet shoppers know that finding a stylish brand that also offers extended-width shoes is no easy task. But, we have trusty standbys like Sam Edelman and Naturalizer, as recommended by our staffers! Retailers like Amazon also have god-sent search filter options so only wide and extra-wide sandals are pulled up.

Best Luxury Sandals

Because we love an extra moment, anytime, anywhere, we conclude this best summer sandals guide with a few luxury sandal styles that also double as statement shoes. Colorful espadrilles, thong-styled sandals, trendy puff sandals — bring ‘em all on, and step forth in confidence!

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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What Does Luxury Look Like In 2022? This Latinx Streetwear Designer Weighs In

“Streetwear, to me, is a form of identity…[it’s how] so many of us express ourselves,” says L.A.-based designer Rachel Gomez. After noticing a gap in the male-dominated market for “a dope streetwear brand that catered to women,” she launched Viva La Bonita, a lifestyle and apparel brand embedded in self-empowerment and Latinx culture. “We’re like your loudest hype woman,” she adds.

Across the brand’s assortment of hoodies, tees, home goods, and more, you’ll find inspiring Spanish and English mantras like “Mujeres are magic” and “Beautiful shade of brown” — the same mantras Gomez wrote to herself to navigate a particularly difficult period of her life. But while Viva La Bonita is rooted in Latinx culture, family helped plant the seed. She cites her grandmother’s strong work ethic and joy in doing what she loves as one of her biggest inspirations, and it’s she who lent Gomez the $500 needed to get her future business — her joy — off the ground. From there, it was up to her to put in the work to make her entrepreneurial dreams come true.

For Gomez, luxury isn’t about owning expensive, flashy things; it’s creating something out of nothing, then nurturing it and watching it grow — and that’s what she did. Her first collection sold out shortly after launching, tripling her initial investment. Since then, the brand has made its way into a handful of major retailers, which she considers not only a big accomplishment for herself, but for Latinx creatives everywhere: “It proves that we can take up space in these spaces that we’ve been made to believe are not for us.”

To celebrate defining luxury on our own terms, we partnered with Acura to share Gomez’s story of building a brand that encompasses the things that matter the most: family, culture, and love for creativity. Watch the video, above, to learn more about Viva La Bonita’s humble beginnings and get a peek into Gomez’s day-to-day as a Latina force in streetwear.

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A Definitive Guide To The Best Casual Summer Dresses

While it’s technically true that any outfit revolving around a dress could be categorized as an easy, breezy, one-and-done look, not all frocks are created equally effortless. With humidity levels peaking right now, throwing on a lightweight summer dress and calling it a day feels like the correct move. But what even constitutes a casual summer dress? And what are the best styles for dressing nonchalantly in this heat? 

For this guide to the best casual summer dresses, we set a few criteria. One, the fabric of the dress has to be machine- or hand-washable, and the material needs to handle a bit of inevitable summer sweat. Two, the dress silhouette has to be a pullover or pull-on style with no complicated zippers, hardware, or accoutrements. And three, the length of the dress needs to fall within the mini to midi range (because maxis can require a whole lot of work, not to mention hemming, for the petite dress-wearers of the world). 

Of course, footwear also plays a huge role in your low-maintenance summer dress look. Pair any of the below pieces with sneakers or flats, and you’ve got yourself a just-pulled-this-together vibe. Need to transition the dress from day to night? Some evening accessories, a quick going-out beauty routine, and a simple shoe swap for heeled sandals or ankle booties should do the trick. Now, that we’ve got those guidelines out of the way, here are the best casual summer dress styles we’ve uncovered on the world wide web.

T-Shirt & Tank Dresses

The go-to summer dress in your arsenal (especially if you’re still working from home and can’t be bothered with more effort) is a T-shirt or sleeveless dress, preferably in cotton or a cotton-blend material. Listen, you’ve got plenty of soft, worn-in T-shirts — now just imagine a longer, oversized version of that same comfort. Looking for a specific color? Brands like Los Angeles Apparel, Everlane, and Universal Standard tend to have an array of hues, with T-shirt dresses in a more straightforward shape.

House & Nap Dresses

The nap dress (also known as a house dress) has become a fave style among the cottagecore-leaning indoor folk. These lounge dresses may look like they have a lot going on — a tiered construction, smocked tops, and often puffed or frilly sleeves — but they are so casual that, yes, you are encouraged to take a snooze in them. Then go about your day without a wardrobe change!

Shift Dresses

Shift dresses are typically more form-fitting, with detailed feminine darting around the bust or waist. While some sheath-like bodies work well for casual summer dressing, the general goal here is to be able to move effortlessly throughout the day. So, check out pullover shift styles that offer wiggle room wherever possible — such as midi dresses that tent out or knit tunic dresses with stretch.

Slip & Cami Dresses

Depending on the material and cut, the slip dress may end up looking a bit more put-together, and even nighttime-y and a little less casual. However, we love any summer dress where all you have to do is slip it on and go — which is why the cami-top frock is not to be overlooked this season. Reformation consistently offers lightweight slip dresses with a sexy detail (like a thigh-high slit) while Quince is a stellar source for a more low-key, but equally chic, spaghetti-strap affair.

Chambray & Denim Dresses

Nothing’s more casual or cool than classic blue denim. For a stiffer, thicker, more structured feel, opt for a dress made of the standard indigo you’re used to. But on supremely hot days, chambray is the sister version you’ll want to opt for instead — chambray dresses are more lightweight, softer, and have a smoother finish.

Linen Dresses

A linen dress is essential for summer, as its breathable flax fibers won’t stick to your body, no matter your sweat levels. The material is ultra-lightweight and billowy, which makes linen dresses perfect for all-day wear. The one thing to note is that the natural fabric tends to wrinkle easily, so to get rid of creases, dampen the dress and iron it using blasts of steam.

Button-Down Shirtdresses

There’s nothing a button-down shirtdress can’t do — it has the range and versatility that other casual summer dresses don’t have. The oversize oxford is comfy enough to be worn on chill weekends and to most corporate offices on summer Fridays (add work trousers or culottes underneath if you must). Plus, it’s got that “boyfriend shirt” wink-wink going on and looks great belted.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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What Makes A Handbag: Functionality Or Style?

I often think about a scene in The Devil Wears Prada when Andy Sachs’ boyfriend Nate — the movie’s real villain — asks the group, “Why do women need so many purses? You have one you put all your junk in and that’s it. You’re done.” To which Sachs’ friend Doug responds: “Fashion is not just about utility.” The reality is that handbags may have been created to fulfill a functional need, but fashion’s recent interest in “thing bags” has raised the question: Can anything be a handbag?  

On the fall runways, handbags took unusual shapes: Gabriela Hearst showed a bag that looked like an open book, while Puppets & Puppets had a bag shaped like a vase. Most recently, Coperni partnered with Brooklyn-based studio Heven for a confounding glass handbag that’s been used by Kylie Jenner, Kim Kardashian, and Doja Cat, while JW Anderson released a pigeon-shaped handbag that’s realistic enough to rattle onlo`okers with even minor ornithophobia. Celebs have also developed their own makeshift handbags: Rosalía was spotted wearing a biker helmet as a handbag before the release of her album Motomami earlier this year.

And the shock effect often gets people talking: The Instagram announcement for JW Anderson’s aforementioned pigeon-shaped clutch generated comments like “The way I need this in my life” and “It’s not a want, it’s a need.” Likewise, other releases like Coperni and Heven’s glass handbag have puzzled consumers, translating the confusion into curiosity. Last year, when designer Nikola Bentel launched a Barilla box-shaped handbag, it sold out quickly, prompting the designer to release a shipping box-shaped handbag earlier this year. 

For a while now, I’ve been eyeing Tomme Studio’s basketball-shaped handbags, made from real basketballs that have been split open and accessorized with tote and crossbody straps. I decided to try mine — a black-and-red number that features the famous Jordan Air logo — for a date night that involved a wine tasting and an outing to a whiskey bar. My boyfriend, an NBA fan, mocked me from the minute I grabbed the bag to head out, even queuing basketball-themed songs on Spotify as we drove to the wine tasting. I was vindicated when another attendee stopped me, saying, “That has to be the most badass bag ever.” 

While I enjoyed the compliments (I’m a Leo, after all), I had to admit that a basketball bag wasn’t the most functional. While roomy, the constricting nature of the rubber made it hard to reach my essentials. After a few hours carrying the bag, I had some marks from the zipper on my hand, and concluded that this bag was all about personal expression, not convenience. 

The  second part of my experiment involved me seeing if truly anything could be a handbag. I reached for a dust bag from a recent wallet purchase from Saint Laurent. (After all, people buy designer trash to wear.) While the dust bag was made to fit the wallet, I was able to squeeze in a couple of extra items, including my keys and a lip balm. Even holding the dust bag was more functional than many of my handbags: the straps made it easy to hold it with my fingers, while the size was just perfect for me to carry it as a clutch. 

While Nate’s hypothesis was true — all I truly needed was somewhere to put all my junk in — carrying handbags, for me, is not all about functionality, or even needs. The dust bag was a practical, reusable option for those times when running errands doesn’t require a massive tote bag full of envelopes, keys, wipes, and a makeup bag. Still, Doug’s counterargument rang in my mind the entire time: Fashion is a piece of iconography, used to express individual identity. And while a love of Saint Laurent can be considered personal expression for me, the basic dust bag just didn’t do it. 

So it’s safe to say that, yes, anything can be a handbag. The delicate balance between style and functionality is one that fashion has continuously challenged, and even if the bags get more confusing, the reality is that, in this case, a bag is in the eye of the holder. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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These Will Be Fall’s Biggest Fashion Trends — How To Shop Them Now

We’ll always savor long summer days, but, as autumn grows near, we welcome the mood shift — and cooler days — with open arms. The biggest fall 2022 trends have much to offer as we move from swimwear and sundresses in favor of chunky loafers and cozy layers. 

From preppy wares to workwear-inspired standouts, there is something to satisfy all tastes and shopping impulses. A subversive attitude transpired in many designer collections from New York to Paris, offering a refreshingly rebellious take on closet staples. Think: deconstructed knits, re-worked tailoring, and lots of leather in the form of S&M and biker-style silhouettes. Similarly, a futuristic wave rippled through fashion month’s four cities with gritty, punk undertones influencing denim, dresses, cargos, and more. Plus, the official induction of the catsuit as a fearless approach to all-in-one dressing and trippy trompe l’oeil prints. 

A flapper-era opulence emerged on the more glamorous end of the spectrum; rhinestones, sequins, and crystal-decked designs proved both extravagant yet effortless in tandem with everyday blazers and boots and the ultimate in glamour when worn in their scintillating glory. Outerwear underwent the extra treatment, too, from floor-grazing dusters to ultra-oversized puffers and supersized faux fur destined for statement-making days. 

As for fall’s boot du jour, get ready for the over-the-knee revival to pair with the season’s micro-minis, ranging from classic block-heels to second-skin silhouettes doused in color and rugged moto styles. And while skin-baring Y2K-style dresses and skirts remain a fixture, prepare for maxi hemlines, spanning full-volume designs to slinky ’90s style shapes, to lure you in this season. 

Ahead, a deeper breakdown of fall’s biggest fashion trends for 2022, complete with an edit to shop.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Lots of Leather 

Leather undergoes a daring refresh this fall, as S&M and biker-style pieces emerged (see: bucked and overly strappy shapes like at Khaite, Versace, and Roberto Cavalli), as well as sleek and tailored head-to-toe looks in elegant neutrals and vibrant colors (Tod’s, Maryam Nassir Zadeh, and Sergio Hudson), offering slick options for even the most edge-aversed. Photo: Courtesy of Khaite.

Nasty Gal Faux Leather Croc Embossed Oversized Blazer, $, available at Nasty Gal

Lita by Ciara Lace-Up Leather Dress, $, available at Nordstrom

FP Collection | Free People Rebel Leather Harness, $, available at Free People

Not-So-Prim Prep

While tennis, golf, and country clubcore aesthetics have ruled spring and summer, fall ushers in an edgier version of prep. The new vibe, led by Miu Miu and Rokh, puts a fresh twist on classics from pleated skirts and blazers to varsity staples like bombers and knits via luxe touches like leather and faux fur. Plus, asymmetrical and cropped cuts in the mix for added modernity and playfulness.  Photo: Courtesy of Miu Miu.

O'Dolly Dearest Pleated Miniskirt, $, available at Nordstrom

Apparis APPARIS Tierra Vegan Leather Bomber Jacket, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Aritzia Assembly Sweater, $, available at Aritzia

Deconstructed Staples

With a rebellious tone often teetering into a raver aesthetic, tattered knits, disheveled denim, and frayed fishes appeared as more than mere accents but, instead, focal-point pieces styled head-to-toe, as seen at Acne Studios, Eckhaus Latta, Dion Lee, and Elena Velez. Consider these capsule closet staples 2.0.Photo: Madison Voelkel/Eckhaus Latta.

Eckhaus Latta Baggy Jean, $, available at Eckhaus Latta

R13 Distressed Oversized Sweater, $, available at FWRD

The Source Unknown Open Blazer, $, available at The Source Unknown

Extra Outerwear

Think beyond function with your fall outerwear. This season’s coats are made to make a serious statement as floor-grazing dusters, ultra-oversized puffers, and supersize faux fur and teddy coats reign. Look at the runways of Courrèges, Coperni, and Rick Ownes for proof. Photo: Courtesy of Coperni.

The Frankie Shop Anei Alpaca Coat, $, available at The Frankie Shop

Aritzia Laramie puffer, $, available at Aritzia

Missguided Missguided Plus faux leather trench coat in black, $, available at ASOS

Catsuits

After a gradual accession over the past few seasons, catsuits ranging from knitted to sheer and leather iterations (Dior, Hermès, Stella McCartney showed some of the best) are the ultimate conversation piece as fall’s fresh take on all-in-one dressing.Photo: Courtesy of Dior.

Marine Serre Moon Catsuit, $, available at Marine Serre

Norma Kamali Norma Kamali Long Sleeve Turtleneck Skull Cap Catsuit, $, available at FWRD

Brielle Velvet Burnout Catsuit, $, available at Brielle Belle

Slick Sportswear

Tailoring sees a modern and minimal approach for back-to-the-office dressing this fall, from cinched and spliced blazers like at Brandon Maxwell, Erdem, and Peter Do to timeless shapes deftly combined with plunging and cut-out shapes for a sultry skin show, like at LaQuan Smith.Photo: Courtesy of LaQuan Smith.

Nomia Cutout Drawcord Blazer, $, available at Nomia

COS Wide Leg Trousers, $, available at COS

Tibi Celia Drape Stella Pant, $, available at Tibi

Over-The-Knee Boots

Your favorite aughts-era boots are back, from thigh-skimming styles with a motocross edge to second-skin fits in bright colors and buttery-soft leather versions with timeless stiletto and block heels. Khaite, Victoria Beckham, and Isabel Marant debuted standout versions. Photo: Courtesy of Isabel Marant.

Staud Aimee Boot, $, available at Staud

Schutz Guily Up Over-The-Knee Boots, $, available at Nordstrom

Brother Vellies OTK Brandy Boot, $, available at Brother Vellies

Flapper-Era Opulence

From New York to Paris, shimmer, sequins, and rhinestones stood out from event-worthy attire (Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, Sacai, and Miu Miu) to dialed-up daily wares like suits and denim (Cinq à Sept, Dries Van Noten, and PatBo).Photo: Dan Lecca and Jonas Gustavsson/PatBo

Zara RHINESTONE BOMBER LIMITED EDITION, $, available at Zara

H&M Sequined Dress with Fringe Hem, $, available at H&M

River Island Silver sequin flared trousers, $, available at River Island

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