If you are missing great shoes, you may be missing great outfits.

A shoe is rarely just the final practical piece we put on before leaving the house. It affects the proportion, mood, level of polish and overall direction of an outfit.

The wrong shoe can make a beautiful dress feel dated, make modern pants look awkward or drain the personality from an otherwise interesting combination. The right shoe can turn a simple dress, jeans or a neutral outfit into a complete look.

That does not mean we need an enormous shoe collection. It means we need the right range of colors, finishes, shapes and levels of comfort for the way we actually dress.

I have collected 50 of my favorite shoes and sandals for summer 2026. There are affordable options, premium options, practical walking shoes, delicate event shoes and plenty of choices in between.

How to Shop This Video/Post

• Click on the individual pictures below to go directly to the item.
• Find the link to your numbered item in the list below.
• Shop everything in one place in this catalog. https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/306H-SQ4tFKd6h?s=1821962

How to Choose Shoes

• Light Neutral Sandal: https://stylists.shop/RKy
• Medium Neutral Sandal: https://stylists.shop/RKC
• Dark Neutral Sandal: https://stylists.shop/RKB
• Silver Crochet Flat: https://stylists.shop/RKI
• Gold Sandal: https://stylists.shop/RKJ
• Leopard Flat: https://stylists.shop/RKM
• Python Sandals: https://stylists.shop/RKO
• Gold Woven Flat: https://stylists.shop/RKP
• Cap Toe Flat: https://stylists.shop/RKR
• Red Reformation Sandals: https://stylists.shop/RKT
• Balmain Sneakers: https://stylists.shop/RKZ
• L’Agence Mules: https://stylists.shop/RKX
• Madewell Blue Flats: https://stylists.shop/RKY
• J. Crew Sandals: https://stylists.shop/RKW
• Brown Woven Flats: https://stylists.shop/RL0
• Yellow Statement Mules: https://stylists.shop/RL2

50 Best Shoes

1. Birkenstock Madrid https://stylists.shop/RL3
2. Sam Edelman Michaela https://stylists.shop/RLm
3. Target Platform Sandals https://stylists.shop/RLn
4. Schutz Wedges https://stylists.shop/RLq
5. Archies https://stylists.shop/RLr
6. Vionic Sandals https://stylists.shop/RLs
7. Quince Mules https://goto.quince.com/qWkNPy
8. Inez Mule https://stylists.shop/RLS
9. Quince Brown Mule https://goto.quince.com/GboqeL
10. GAP Thong Mule https://stylists.shop/RLY
11. Tuckernuck Jelly Fisherman Sandals https://stylists.shop/RM0
12. Nine West Wedge Sandal https://stylists.shop/RM2 12A Marc Fisher Wedge Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMa 12B Alaia Wedge Sandal https://stylists.shop/RM8
13. Mango Mule https://stylists.shop/RMc
14. Target Flat https://stylists.shop/RMd
15. Banana Republic Fisherman Sandals https://stylists.shop/RMe
16. Mango Crochet Flat https://stylists.shop/RKI
17. J. Crew Espadrille https://stylists.shop/RMf
18. Old Navy Flip Flops https://stylists.shop/RMg
19. Target Raffia Mule https://stylists.shop/RMh
20. Target Slide https://stylists.shop/RMj
21. Quince Sandal https://goto.quince.com/MKoj0N
22. J. Crew Jelly Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMk
23. Madwell Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMl
24. Marc Fisher Flat https://stylists.shop/RMm
25. Everlane Flat https://stylists.shop/RMn
26. Quince Wovem Flat https://goto.quince.com/NGomKP
27. Target https://stylists.shop/RMs
28. Splendid https://stylists.shop/RMv
29. Marc Fisher https://stylists.shop/RMw
30. Everlane Mule https://stylists.shop/RMy
31. Jeffrey Campbell Mule https://stylists.shop/RMz
32. Veronica Beard Mule https://stylists.shop/RMA
33. Sam Edelman Mule https://stylists.shop/RMB
34. Everlane Satin Slide https://stylists.shop/RMQ
35. Marc Fisher Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMD
36. Birkenstock Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMF
37. Steve Madden Thong Sandals https://stylists.shop/RML
38. Veronica Beard Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMF
39. Cult Gaia Mules https://stylists.shop/RMK
40. Beek Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMN
41. Tkees https://stylists.shop/RMO
42. Rag & Bone https://stylists.shop/RMT
43. Beek Studded Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMU
44. Beek Gold Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMX
45. Sam Edelman Shira Flat https://stylists.shop/RMY
46. Reformation Thong Sandal https://stylists.shop/RMZ
47. Ancient Greek Sandals https://stylists.shop/RN0
48. Dolce Vita Sandals https://stylists.shop/RN1
49. Free People https://stylists.shop/RN4
50. Simkhai Wedge https://stylists.shop/RN3

Build a Shoe Wardrobe by Color and Finish

Most women think about shoe categories first: sandals, sneakers, flats, boots and heels.

Those categories matter, but color and finish can be just as important.

If every sandal you own is beige, for example, you may technically have several summer shoes but still lack the variety needed to complete different outfits.

I like to consider the following categories.

A Light Neutral

A light neutral might be:

• White
• Ivory
• Cream
• Bone
• A very pale beige

A light shoe works beautifully with summer whites, pale denim, soft colors, light prints and many warm-weather dresses.

It also keeps an outfit from feeling visually heavy.

A Medium Neutral

Your medium neutral could be:

• Beige
• Cognac
• Medium brown
• Olive
• Denim blue
• Taupe

Medium neutrals are extremely wearable because they sit between the visual impact of white and the weight of a dark shoe.

A medium brown, tan or cognac shoe can also lengthen the leg when it relates closely to your skin tone.

A Dark Neutral

Depending on your wardrobe, a dark neutral might be:

• Black
• Navy
• Chocolate
• Charcoal
• Deep burgundy

A dark shoe creates definition and can connect an outfit to a darker print, belt, bag or jacket.

Chocolate and burgundy are especially useful for transitioning summer outfits into fall.

A Metallic

Metallic shoes are among the most useful neutral shoes you can own.

Gold, silver, bronze and mixed-metal finishes reflect light and add polish without introducing another strong color.

A metallic shoe often looks more intentional than a plain neutral. It can elevate jeans, finish a special-event dress and add interest to a simple summer outfit.

Silver is having a particularly strong moment, although gold remains timeless and beautiful.

A Pattern, Texture or Two-Tone Shoe

When an outfit is simple, the shoe can become the completer piece.

Pattern options might include:

• Leopard
• Python
• Snake
• Floral
• Stripe
• Polka dot

Texture may be even easier to wear than pattern. Consider:

• Raffia
• Woven leather
• Crochet
• Mesh
• Jelly
• Suede
• Satin
• Rope

A two-tone neutral shoe provides a similar effect. A cap-toe flat, woven brown-and-white Mary Jane or black-and-cream sandal adds visual interest without introducing a bold print.

A Pop of Color

Every shoe wardrobe deserves at least one color.

Red is an especially strong choice right now. It can energize denim, white, navy, camel, black, gray and many prints.

A colorful shoe works for both minimalists and maximalists.

A minimalist can use it as the one unexpected element in a clean outfit. A maximalist can repeat or contrast a color already found in the clothing.

Choose the Finishes in the Shoes You Actually Wear

You do not need every finish in every type of shoe.

Instead, consider which shoes you wear most.

If you live in sneakers, your variety may need to come from sneakers. If you wear flats nearly every day, build your range there. If sandals dominate your warm-weather wardrobe, concentrate on sandals.

The goal is not to check boxes for the sake of collecting. It is to create useful options within the shoe categories that support your life.

HOW TO SHOP FOR SHOES IN JULY

July is a slightly complicated month for shoe shopping.

There is still plenty of warm weather ahead, but stores are beginning to move into fall. Summer items are being discounted, and transitional styles are appearing.

That creates opportunities, but it can also produce expensive mistakes.

Buy for the Season Ahead, Not Only Today’s Weather

Consider how long you can realistically wear the shoes.

In a warm climate, summer sandals may remain useful for months. In a cooler climate, a ballet flat, loafer, mule or slingback may offer more longevity than an extremely summery sandal.

Look for shoes that work now but can also support early-fall outfits.

Rich colors such as burgundy, chocolate and oxblood are especially useful for creating a fall mood before the temperatures change.

Be Careful With Deeply Discounted Statement Shoes

A dramatic discount can make a highly specific shoe suddenly seem irresistible.

But a deeply discounted shoe is not automatically a good purchase.

Ask why the shoe is on sale. Is it simply the end of the season, or is it a very short-lived trend that may already be losing momentum?

If the shoe genuinely reflects your personal style and you can imagine wearing it repeatedly, the discount may be worthwhile.

If you are being persuaded primarily by the original price or the size of the markdown, leave it behind.

Try Shoes After Your Feet Have Been Active

Feet often expand during the day.

A shoe that seems perfect in the morning may feel completely different after several hours of standing, walking and heat.

Whenever possible, try shoes later in the day or retest them at home after your feet have been active.

Examine the Sole and Footbed

The word “comfortable” means different things to different women.

Some need:

• Arch support
• A cushioned footbed
• A stable heel
• Adjustable straps
• A wide toe box
• A secure back strap

Others are comfortable in a minimal, flexible flat.

Do not judge comfort by appearance alone. Look at the sole, cushioning, construction, strap placement and the way the shoe holds the foot.

A sleek shoe can still have a cushioned footbed. A flat shoe can still be uncomfortable if it lacks the support your feet need.

Fill a Real Wardrobe Gap

Before buying, ask what the shoe will do for your wardrobe.

Perhaps you need:

• A dark sandal for printed dresses
• A metallic flat for events
• A comfortable walking sandal
• A dress shoe that works with pants
• A red shoe for neutral outfits
• A transitional flat for late summer and fall

A precise need produces better purchases than the general feeling that you need “some new shoes.”

THE 50 BEST SUMMER SHOES AND SANDALS

Prices and availability were accurate when the video was filmed but may change.

1. Birkenstock Madrid in High Gloss

The high-gloss finish updates the traditionally rustic look of a Birkenstock.

It provides the ease and recognizable shape of the Madrid but gives it a cleaner, shinier and more polished appearance.

Sizes 4–12 and two width options for approximately $155.

2. Sam Edelman Michaela Jelly Flat

The Michaela is a practical example of how much jelly shoes have evolved.

This is not the stiff, unforgiving jelly shoe many of us remember. It is soft, cushioned, flexible and comfortable enough for extended wear.

The red version also supplies that useful pop of color.

$65, available in seven colors and sizes 5–12.

3. Target Raffia-Trim Platform Sandal

This Target platform combines several elements that make a shoe look more expensive:

• A two-tone finish
• Raffia trim
• A defined platform and heel
• A polished event-ready silhouette

It could work for weddings, church, showers, sundresses and other pretty summer occasions.

$45 in sizes 5–12.

4. Schutz Leopard Wedge Flip-Flop

The heeled or wedge flip-flop is one of the defining shoes of the season.

This Schutz version combines a sleek wedge with leopard, one of the easiest patterns to treat as a neutral.

The wedge is sturdy and more walkable than many narrow heels.

$148 in sizes 5–11.

5. Archies Supportive Flip-Flop

Archies are designed for women who like the simplicity of a flip-flop but need more support and cushioning.

They come in a very wide color and size range, making them useful for casual summer dressing.

$40 and available in full sizes 5–16.

6. Vionic Strappy Sandal

This Vionic option offers a cool, minimal strappy look with more support than many delicate sandals.

The adjustable back strap helps secure the foot and can accommodate some variation in width.

A client wore this style throughout a two-week European trip without difficulty, which is a much stronger comfort test than walking around a store.

$140 in four colors and sizes 5–13.

7. Quince Kitten-Heel Mule

Oxblood is a beautiful transitional color because it feels rich enough for fall but still works with summer clothes.

The low heel and backless shape make the mule easy to wear, while the color gives it more presence than an ordinary neutral.

$84 in sizes 5–11 in 3 colors

8. Inez ISA Mule

Use code Nada15

The Isa Mule is the premium version of the padded-strap mule.

Its cushioned straps hug the foot, while the heel remains thin and elegant.

One of its most valuable features is the availability of standard, slim and roomy widths.

On sale for approximately $228 in sizes 5–10½.

9. Quince Padded-Strap Mule

The Quince mule offers a similar sleek, cushioned look at a much lower price.

The padded straps make it more secure and comfortable than many minimal mules.

$82 in almond, black and cognac, in sizes 5–11.

10. Gap Thong Wedge Sandal

This Gap wedge reflects one of the strongest footwear directions of the season: the elevated flip-flop.

It has a modern shape, a comfortable-looking wedge and an accessible price.

About $41 in beige and burgundy, in sizes 6–10.

11. Tuckernuck Jelly Fisherman Slide

This is a playful poolside or vacation shoe with definite cool-girl energy.

The fisherman construction supplies texture, while the slide shape keeps it easy and casual.

about $75 in seven colors and sizes 6–10.

12. Nine West Jade Heeled Thong Sandal

The Nine West Jade offers the look of a much more expensive Alaïa sandal for a fraction of the price.

It is sleek, current and easy to wear with dresses, skirts, jeans and trousers.

About $45 in taupe, navy and black, in sizes 5–12.

13. Mango Pointed Glossy Mule

A pointed toe and glossy neutral finish give this Mango mule a polished, designer-like appearance.

It works especially well when a softer summer outfit needs something sharper and more sophisticated.

Approximately $69.99 in sizes 5–10.

14. Target Ballet Flat

This Target ballet flat is a useful summer-to-fall style.

The gold ornament adds polish, while the burgundy faux-suede option provides an early-fall mood.

It was approximately $28 in black and burgundy, in sizes 5–12.

15. Banana Republic Woven Fisherman Sandal

This woven fisherman sandal has more visual presence than a plain flat sandal but remains neutral and wearable.

The multicolored version is especially useful for connecting several colors within an outfit.

Approximately $149.99 in sizes 5–11.

16. Mango Silver Crochet Flat

This flat combines two important footwear directions: silver and open woven texture.

The crochet construction allows the shoe to conform to the foot, while the metallic finish elevates it.

It was approximately $89.99 in sizes 5–10.

17. J.Crew Woven Flat Espadrille

This J.Crew espadrille provides texture without becoming overly rustic.

Its neutral woven finish works beautifully with denim, linen, cotton dresses and relaxed summer tailoring.

It was on sale for approximately $138.50 in sizes 5–12.

18. Old Navy Minimal Flip-Flop

At approximately $7, this was one of the most affordable shoes in the entire collection.

The additional strap across the foot gives it a more intentional and elevated appearance than a standard rubber flip-flop.

It was available in sizes 5–11.

19. Target Raffia Slide

This raffia slide includes a memory-foam insole and works especially well with flowy summer dresses.

It has the look of a significantly more expensive resort brand at approximately $45.

$45 Available in sizes 5–12.

20. Target Suede Footbed Sandal

This Target sandal has a slightly bohemian, updated retro quality.

The suede upper and substantial footbed make it a good option for women who want something more supportive than a thin sandal.

About $35 in brown and black, in sizes 5–11.

21. Quince Minimalist Leather Sandal

This is the sleek, high-end-looking sandal for the woman who loves a quiet minimalist look but does not want the designer price.

The simple construction allows it to work with nearly everything.

$80 in brown, black and cream, in sizes 5–11.

22. J.Crew Jelly Fisherman Sandal

The J.Crew version provides more coverage than a jelly slide while retaining the texture and practicality of the material.

The medium neutral color gives the shoe a sophisticated, modern appearance.

$89.50 in sizes 5–12.

23. Madewell Rope Thong Sandal

The rope straps make this Madewell sandal distinctive without making it hard to style.

It is a simple summer shape with an unexpected textural update.

$98 in red, blue and brown, in full sizes 5–12.

24. Marc Fisher Silver Mesh Flat

This shoe offers shine, breathability and texture in one comfortable-looking flat.

It can add interest to a simple outfit without the visual weight of a closed leather shoe.

Approximately $65 in sizes 6–11.

25. Everlane Day Mary Jane

The strap helps keep this flat securely on the foot, while the metallic option gives it more versatility and polish.

It is a strong everyday shoe for women who want a classic flat with a current shape.

$178 in six colors, in sizes 5–11.

26. Quince Woven Leather Ballet Flat

The woven leather makes this flat look considerably more expensive than its price.

It is neutral enough for frequent wear but textured enough to complete an outfit.

It was approximately $84 in four colors, in sizes 5–10.

27. Target Royce Woven Mary Jane

This Target Mary Jane combines two-tone color and woven texture.

The brown-and-white version is especially useful because it connects easily to summer neutrals, denim and chocolate accessories.

$40 and also available in dark brown.

28. Splendid Kitten-Heel Thong Sandal

The strap arrangement makes this Splendid sandal more distinctive than a basic heeled flip-flop.

It has the relaxed quality associated with the brand but still feels polished enough for dinner and social occasions.

$129 in sizes 6–11.

29. Marc Fisher Woven Flat

Marc Fisher consistently offers modern shoes with solid construction and comfort.

This woven flat is a versatile choice for adding texture without relying on a bold color or pattern.

Approximately $90 in sizes 6–11.

30. Everlane Heeled Thong Sandal

This is an exceptionally versatile shoe.

It can work with jeans, trousers, summer dresses and even some wedding-guest looks.

The clean, restrained design gives it longevity beyond a single trend cycle.

About $228 in three colors and sizes 5–11.

31. Jeffrey Campbell Gold Vintage-Style Mule

This gold mule is feminine, glamorous and slightly nostalgic.

It can become the focal point of an otherwise simple outfit and would be especially beautiful with dresses or cropped pants.

About $145 in sizes 5–11.

32. Veronica Beard Kitten-Heel Thong Sandal

The Veronica Beard sandal combines a leg-lengthening neutral color with elegant gold hardware.

It offers a more distinctive, premium interpretation of the heeled thong trend.

About $198 in sand and chestnut, in sizes 5–11.

33. Sam Edelman Light Raffia-Trim Sandal

This Sam Edelman sandal offers a lighter neutral version of the kitten-heel thong.

The raffia around the footbed gives it a summery, resort-like quality.

It was approximately $130 in sizes 6–11.

34. Everlane Satin Slide

Satin immediately makes a shoe feel more feminine and glamorous.

Because this is a flat, backless slide, it offers that elegance without the formality or difficulty of a traditional evening heel.

It was on final sale for approximately $63 in two colors and sizes 5–11.

35. Marc Fisher Python Sandal

Python is one of the most versatile patterns to use as a neutral.

It works with black, white, denim, brown, olive and many colors.

This thin strappy sandal is more suitable for shorter occasions than extensive walking, but it can transform a simple outfit.

It was on sale for approximately $55.

36. Birkenstock EVA Sandal

The EVA version offers the recognizable Birkenstock shape in a lightweight, water-friendly material.

Lighter and brighter colors make the style feel fresher and more modern.

About $60 in several colors and sizes 6–10½.

37. Steve Madden Leather Thong Sandal

This sandal includes more structure around the foot than a traditional flip-flop.

It is a useful choice for women who like the look of a thong sandal but want something that feels more secure.

About $110 in ivory and cognac, in sizes 6–10.

38. Veronica Beard Delicate Strappy Sandal

This premium leather sandal has the delicate, elegant look often associated with European resort style.

It is simple, refined and beautifully proportioned.

About $375 in gold and chestnut, in sizes 5–12.

39. Cult Gaia Raffia Mule

This is an unabashedly feminine, decorative shoe.

The raffia construction and mule shape give it a playful “Barbie shoe” quality while still feeling sophisticated.

$395 in sizes 5–12.

40. Beek Sunbird Sandal

Beek sandals are known for high-quality leather and comfortable construction.

The Sunbird is a refined strappy option that works for casual summer outfits but feels more elevated than a standard flip-flop.

Approximately $159 in several colors and sizes 5–12.

41. TKEES Gold Thong Sandal

TKEES helped popularize the simple, skin-toned leather flip-flop.

The gold version provides the same leg-lengthening simplicity with extra shine and polish.

$85 in sizes 5–11.

42. Rag & Bone Mary Jane Sneaker

This shoe combines the athletic, low-profile look of a Puma Speedcat with the femininity of a Mary Jane.

It is a directional cool-girl option rather than a conventional sneaker.

$348 in silver and pale blue, in sizes 4–10.

43. Beek Studded Thong Sandal

Metal studs add definition and visual interest to this leather thong sandal.

The hardware allows it to complete an outfit in a way that a plain sandal may not.

$260 in four colors and sizes 5–12.

44. Beek Toe-Ring Sandal

This is a glamorous, European-looking sandal that evokes Capri, Cannes and the South of France.

The toe-ring construction gives it a distinctive shape while maintaining a minimal leather appearance.

It was approximately $280 in three colors and sizes 5–12.

45. Sam Edelman Shira Woven Flat

This woven flat has enough texture to make a simple outfit more interesting while remaining highly wearable.

Sam Edelman flats are often a strong combination of modern styling and comfort.

$160 in four colors and sizes 6–10.

46. Reformation Leather Thong Sandal

This is one of the strongest minimalist leather flip-flop options for the price because it comes in 11 colors.

The wide color selection makes it easier to choose the precise neutral or accent shade your wardrobe needs.

$148 in sizes 5–11.

47. Ancient Greek Sandals Beaded Flip-Flop

Ancient Greek Sandals specializes in refined European-style leather sandals.

The beaded embellishment elevates this flip-flop and gives it a special vacation or resort quality.

$320 in full sizes 5–11.

48. Dolce Vita Cushioned Strappy Sandal

This Dolce Vita option offers a minimal, delicate appearance with more padding and cushioning underneath the foot.

It is a useful compromise for women who want a sleek sandal but cannot tolerate an extremely thin sole.

$120 in four colors and sizes 5–14.

49. Free People Square-Toe Flip-Flop

The small square toe makes this inexpensive flip-flop feel more intentional and current.

It is relaxed, colorful and slightly cooler than a basic drugstore flip-flop.

$26 in six colors and sizes 4–11.

50. Simkhai Sculptural Wedge Sandal

The final shoe is also the most dramatic.

The sculptural wedge turns the sandal into a piece of wearable design. It is not an essential basic, but it is a memorable option for someone whose personal style welcomes an artistic statement.

$495 in sizes 5–11.

THE MOST IMPORTANT TAKEAWAY

You do not need all 50 shoes.

The real purpose of the list is to help you recognize what your wardrobe may be missing.

Perhaps it is not another beige sandal.

Perhaps it is:

• A metallic flat
• A colorful shoe
• A textured neutral
• A comfortable walking sandal
• A dressier summer shoe
• A modern shape that updates your existing clothes
• A transitional shoe for late summer and fall

The right shoe does more than match an outfit.

It supplies the finishing touch that makes the entire outfit look deliberate.