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    1. Fashion
    2. Summer fashion

    Strappy Sandals Will Make You Reconsider Heels

    They're perfect for spring but are equally cool when paired with socks.

    Lauren Tappan#039;s avatar
    By Lauren Tappan
    Last updated 28 February 2024 In Buying Guides

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    strappy sandals
    (Image credit: Marie Claire)
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    Welcome to The Best in Basics, our series highlighting all the must-have classics that are key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.


    As a firm believer in the power of a capsule wardrobe, I’ve made it my mission to cultivate a collection of pieces rooted in basics. And in order to see my wardrobe truly blossom, I’ve had to properly tend to it by investing in items that have a timeless appeal. So, what are the shoes that will forever have a place in my closet and my heart? White sneakers, black boots, and strappy sandals.

    “There is a sense of ease to a strappy sandal that has stood the test of time,” says Linda Cui Zhang, associate fashion director at Nordstrom. Strappy sandals have been around for decades, but these chic shoes notably made their mark in the ‘90s, when they were feverishly worn across numerous red carpets by fashion icons like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Kate Moss.  

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    Although we’re no longer living in the ‘90s, strappy sandals have managed to find their way into the contemporary fashion world because, simply put, they’re versatile shoes. With a straightforward silhouette and a barely-there feel, the best strappy sandals will pair with a variety of outfits for a range of occasions. 

    Ahead, you’ll find seven of the best strappy sandals and styling references for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. Whether you’re heading into the office for work or going out with friends for brunch, slip into these sleek shoes with ease.

    Chic and Casual

    New York Fashion Week street style

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Bare Leather Sandals

    The Row Bare Leather Sandals
    $890 AT NET-A-PORTER

    Featuring a simple shade of black, The Row’s Bare sandals embody a minimal design that is undoubtedly versatile. Pair these shoes with a casual outfit, a chic evening look, or something in between. Consider styling these sandals with a sharp, tailored blazer and a flowy cargo skirt to achieve a refined and relaxed aesthetic. If you don’t have a cargo skirt, throw on a pair of jeans for a similar feel. 

    Minimal Effort

    Copenhagen Fashion Week street style

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Loeffler Randall Eloise Leather Thong Ankle-Strap Sandals

    Loeffler Randall Eloise Leather Thong Ankle-Strap Sandals
    $295 AT BERGDORF GOODMAN

    Comfort is a relevant concern while wearing heels, but with Loeffler’s Randall’s glossy leather sandals, there’s no need to worry about whether you’ll be able to withstand a day’s worth of walking. Not only do these shoes feature a secure ankle strap, but they’re also made with a block heel, which evenly distributes pressure across the foot. To complete this look, lean into a minimal vibe with a blue button-down top, a white ribbed tank, and a micro mini skirt.

    A Pop of Red

    New York Fashion Week street style

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Jeffrey Campbell Fluxx Sandal

    Jeffrey Campbell Fluxx Sandal
    $129.95 AT NORDSTROM

    "I enjoy when strappy sandals are barely peeking out from under a maxi dress, and depending on the style, a strappy sandal can be a great way to add color to complete your look," says Zhang. Amp up the heat with a fiery red shoe for the warm months ahead. Our recommendation? Jeffrey Campbell's Fluxx sandal boasts a trendy hue of cherry red. Pair these shoes with a neutral-toned dress to let them shine in the spotlight. 

    Statement on the Go

    New York Fashion Week street style

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Coline Kitten Heel Sandal

    Vince Coline Kitten Heel Sandal
    $295 AT NORDSTROM

    Vince gives the typical strappy sandal design a bit of a modern twist with tubular straps that set this shoe apart from the rest. These whimsical sandals are also crafted with a cushioned footbed to provide an ultra-comfortable fit, which will be helpful if you’re constantly on the go. To take this statement look a step further, add a shimmering midi skirt to make heads turn. Try an understated satin slip skirt instead if you prefer to keep things simple.

    Office-Appropriate

    New York Fashion Week street style

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Meena Toe Ring Block Heel Sandal

    Reformation Meena Toe Ring Block Heel Sandal
    $198 AT REFORMATION

     No matter what trend forecasters might say, the quiet luxury aesthetic is still relevant, especially in the work environment. Elevate your classic suit set by way of Reformation's Meena heels, an office-appropriate shoe you'll wear repeatedly. Although the street style look we've referenced features dark brown sandals, white strappy sandals will look just as stunning. Once you leave the office, you can seamlessly transition these square-toe shoes into the evening.

    Out and About

    Copenhagen Fashion Week street style

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Vernice 85 Patent-Leather Slingback Sandals

    Gianvito Rossi Vernice 85 Patent-Leather Slingback Sandals
    $338 AT NET-A-PORTER

    Balmy days are nearly in sight, so we’ve already begun to imagine what we’ll be wearing to outdoor brunches and rooftop cocktail parties. If the thought hasn’t crossed your mind yet, let us point you in the right direction. Whether you have a mimosa or an aperol spritz in hand, dress for the occasion with Gianvito Rossi’s patent-leather slingback sandals, which are adorned with two simple straps. As for your choice of clothes, tailored pastel pieces will do the trick. 

    Preppy and Comfy

    New York Fashion Week street style

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Tia 2.0 Strappy Sandal

    Vagabond Shoemakers Tia 2.0 Strappy Sandal
    $110 AT NORDSTROM

    For those who can’t bear wearing heels, first, we get it, and second, we’ve rounded up a pair of sandals just for you. Find solace in Vagabond’s black flats, which exhibit a geometric design of thin straps that gracefully wrap around the foot and ankle for maximum support. Embrace a preppy look with belted khaki trousers, a basic white t-shirt, and a striped nautical sweater wrapped around your shoulders. 

    Meet the Expert

    Linda Cui Zhang
    Linda Cui Zhang
    Associate Fashion Director at Nordstrom

    Formerly an accountant with a career in merchandise planning, Linda Cui Zhang joined Nordstrom in 2021 as a buyer and is currently the Associate Fashion Director. Originally from North Carolina, Linda resides in New York City.

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    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Lauren Tappan
    Lauren Tappan
    Social Links Navigation
    Fashion Editor

    Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.

    Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.

    Read more
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