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Arguably the most important summer shoe is the walking sandal. Something comfortable you can walk in for beach days, travel, or just running errands when it’s hot out. Like many, I have a pair of Birkenstock Arizonas (the silver ones from the Proenza collab) that are very much a beater pair of walking sandals. Packable and lightweight, they’re an easy choice but to be honest…I get bored of them. Maybe because it’s become a familiar silhouette I see everywhere, but I’m just not inspired by them.
Below: the one walking sandal I swear by and a few other summer shoes I’m eyeing.
Suzanne Rae Velcro Platform
I’ve had these shoes for a few years and swear by them for walking. The sole cushions are ultra pillowy, and the velcro straps keep your foot locked in snug. They come in a few different colors—I have the dark green. On hot days they’re my go-to breathable walking shoe. They manage to straddle the line between utility and style so well. In fall I wear them with thick socks and adjust the velcro straps to accommodate the extra fabric. So for me, they’re a true perennial shoe. They’re also very TALL. Maybe 3 inches? This means they are the perfect shoe for long pants or dresses that I can’t wear with other shoes without the hems dragging on the ground. People always remark “I didn’t know Teva made platforms!” I recommend checking on TheRealReal for these, that’s where I got my pair.
Nikki Chasin Deco Slide
Nikki Chasin is an under-the-radar designer and I particularly love her eye for prints. These art deco motif slides have retro appeal, and looks supportive enough for light walks. They’re on the feminine side of the picks. I would style this with a simple cotton dress, or a smart brown trouser and sheer socks for fall.
Miista Laranya Slides
These are giving high fashion Chacos. I have a pair of Miistas with the rock climbing rope detail—it’s so distinct and visually interesting. They look sturdy and comfortable. I love the idea of wearing them with a relaxed slouchy jean and tube top. Ideal for sporty tomboy looks. Like jorts or boxers. They also come in a hypnotic purple colorway.
Camper Kaah Wedge
Camper is excellent in the sandal department, consistently putting out campy chic designs like the famed Kobarahs that Solange wore once. I like the Kaah wedge, which plays on the signature “puffy” design of Camper shoes with the heel shape. Consider these are your sandal version of the staple white sneaker: wear with a tank top and jeans or a breezy slip dress.
Marni Fussbett Sandal
For a period in….20221? I was obsessed with the Marni Fussbetts and almost purchased them on TheRealReal a few times. I never ended buying them because I felt like my Suzanne Rae Velcros filled that wardrobe “gap.” Like if I had both shoes, I would find myself just choosing the velcro platforms most times. That said, I do really love them especially in the green colorway. The thick cross straps and gold hardware make it the most luxe pick of the list.
yours truly,
viv