11 Aug 2025

Pairing Different Sandal Types with Every Outfit in Your Summer Wardrobe

Summer is the perfect time to refresh your style — lighter fabrics, brighter colors, and breezy silhouettes take center stage. But no summer outfit is complete without the right pair of sandals. The beauty of sandals is their versatility: with so many styles, you can find a perfect pair to match any occasion, from casual coffee runs to sunset weddings.

Here’s your guide to pairing different types of sandals with every outfit in your summer wardrobe, so you look polished and feel comfortable all season long.

1. Slide Sandals: Effortless Everyday Casual

Best for:

T-shirt dresses
Linen shorts and tanks
Flowy midi skirts

Slide sandals are the ultimate slip-on-and-go choice. With no straps to fuss over, they’re perfect for spontaneous summer errands or days by the pool. Leather slides elevate your look a touch more than rubber versions, pairing beautifully with everything from a casual dress to relaxed cropped jeans.

Tip: Look for slides with arch support and a slightly contoured footbed so you can wear them comfortably all day.

2. Strappy Flat Sandals: Versatile for Day or Night

Best for:

Maxi dresses
Tailored shorts with blouses
Casual jumpsuits

Strappy flat sandals strike a balance between laid-back and refined. Metallic finishes or delicate leather straps add a chic element that easily transitions from daytime to evening. Pair them with a maxi dress for a garden brunch or with a romper for a night at an outdoor patio.

3. Sport Sandals: Function Meets Fashion

Best for:

Athleisure outfits
Bike shorts and oversized tees
Outdoor adventures with shorts or cargo skirts

Modern sport sandals have come a long way. Brands have designed chunky silhouettes and bold colors that are just as stylish as they are supportive. They’re great for days when you’ll be walking long distances — think exploring farmers markets or a casual trail walk.

Tip: Try pairing sporty sandals with bike shorts and a cropped tee for a street-style edge.

4. Wedge Sandals: Easy Summer Elegance

Best for:

Sundresses and floral prints
Wide-leg trousers
Evening dinners outdoors

Wedges give you height and a leg-lengthening effect without the discomfort of stilettos. They’re perfect for dressier events like garden parties or even casual summer weddings. Neutral espadrille wedges look stunning with breezy summer dresses, while cork or wood wedges complement linen pants or jumpsuits.

5. Platform Sandals: Retro Cool with Added Comfort

Best for:

Denim skirts or shorts
Trendy wide-leg jeans
Playful mini dresses

Platform sandals add drama to your outfit while maintaining stability underfoot. They pair well with retro-inspired looks, like high-waisted jeans or a flowy mini dress. For a bold 70s vibe, try brightly colored platforms with a patterned dress.

6. Dress Sandals: Sophisticated Evenings Out

Best for:

Cocktail dresses
Tailored summer suits
Elegant midi slip dresses

When your summer plans include upscale dinners or weddings, opt for sleek dress sandals with minimal straps or a subtle block heel. Nude tones or metallics will lengthen your legs and match virtually any outfit. Choose styles with padded footbeds if you’ll be on your feet for hours.

7. Thong & Flip-Flop Styles: Poolside or Purely Casual

Best for:

Bathing suits and cover-ups
Simple shorts and tank combos
Laid-back beach dresses

While traditional flip-flops don’t offer much support, they still belong in your wardrobe for pool days, beach outings, or ultra-casual errands. Leather thong sandals are a slightly more sophisticated option that pairs well with relaxed summer outfits.

Tips for Seamless Summer Sandal Pairing

Match formality: Use your sandals to elevate or tone down your outfit. For example, pair minimal leather slides with tailored shorts to keep the look polished but relaxed.

Play with color: If your outfit is neutral, try sandals in a pop color or metallic. They can instantly brighten your look.

Mind the occasion: Save sport sandals or chunky platforms for casual days, and bring out wedges or slim-strapped sandals for dinner dates and parties.

Comfort counts: Summer often means long days on your feet. Always check for arch support, secure straps, and quality materials that won’t cause blisters.