Trendy and comfortable women’s sandals to look out for this summer 2026
The Espace des Marques Team | Updated on July 2, 2026
Every summer, women’s sandals emerge as the season’s must-have footwear. But in 2026, one trend is becoming increasingly clear: women no longer want to choose between style and comfort. The collections from the biggest brands now focus on styles that are as comfortable to wear as they are easy to match, to suit every summer look.
Whether you’re looking for a pair of flat sandals for your holidays, wedge sandals or elegant heeled sandals for a night out, or even a comfortable style for walking all day, the summer 2026 trends offer a wide choice of styles. Natural materials, ergonomic soles and timeless colours are more popular than ever.
Discover the top trends for summer 2026 and our tips for choosing the perfect pair to see you through the season.
What are the women’s sandal trends for summer 2026?
This year, fashion is focusing on versatile sandals that are equally suited to active days and more formal occasions. The designs draw inspiration from minimalism, retro influences and comfort, with particular attention paid to materials and finishes.
Here are the styles to go for if you want to stay on-trend whilst enjoying excellent everyday comfort.
Minimalist flat sandals
You simply can’t miss the flat sandals and mules this season. Simple, elegant and easy to wear, they charm with their clean lines and great versatility. The thin straps – whether criss-crossed or asymmetrical – drape discreetly over the foot and add a touch of sophistication to any summer outfit.
Leather styles remain a safe bet. More supple and breathable than many synthetic materials, leather gradually moulds to the shape of the foot and offers welcome comfort when temperatures rise. Matt or slightly grained finishes are particularly on-trend this year.
These sandals pair effortlessly with a flowing maxi dress, linen shorts, a midi skirt or even rolled-up jeans. Their simplicity makes them a summer wardrobe essential, equally at home on holiday as they are in the city.
Wedge sandals are making a big comeback
Long associated with the fashion of the 2000s, wedge sandals are making a striking comeback for summer 2026. With a modern twist, they feature sleeker lines, lighter soles and better foot support.
Unlike stiletto heels, wedges distribute body weight more evenly across the whole foot. This allows you to gain height whilst maintaining a sense of stability and comfort, making them ideal for walking for several hours or enjoying a summer’s evening.
Styles made from braided rope, cork or featuring a wood-effect sole are proving a real hit this season. Paired with a maxi dress, flowing trousers or a lightweight jumpsuit, they instantly add a feminine touch without compromising on comfort.
Heeled sandals
Heeled sandals also remain a safe bet for those seeking a more elegant look. In 2026, styles are moving towards more stable, square or chunky heels, offering greater comfort without compromising on style. Easier to wear than a classic stiletto, they’re perfect for summer evenings or formal occasions.
Thick-soled sandals
Another major summer trend: thick-soled sandals, also known as‘chunky sandals’. Inspired by outdoor footwear, they appeal thanks to their contemporary look and excellent cushioning.
Their thicker soles improve walking comfort and offer better shock absorption, making them a particularly popular choice for busy days or long walks.
Leading brands are reimagining this trend with more elegant designs than before, combining leather straps, metal buckles and ergonomic soles. The result: sandals that combine style, support and practicality, whilst remaining easy to incorporate into a summer wardrobe.
Trendy colours
Whilst black remains a timeless classic, natural colours dominate the summer 2026 collections. They pair easily with any outfit and remain in fashion season after season.
Among the must-have shades are:
- camel, always elegant and easy to wear;
- cognac, which adds a warm touch to summer looks;
- beige and sandy shades, perfect for a natural look;
- white, ideal for brightening up a summer outfit;
- gold or metallic finishes, which add a touch of sparkle without being too flashy.
For those looking for a pair that’s easy to match with everyday outfits, neutral-coloured sandals remain the best choice. They allow you to put together a wide variety of outfits with just one pair of sandals, whilst maintaining a modern and elegant style.
What sort of sandals should you choose if your feet hurt?
As the temperature rises, it’s tempting to prioritise style alone. However, if your feet often hurt after a day’s walking, you should pay particular attention to your choice of sandals. A well-designed pair can make all the difference and allow you to enjoy the summer to the full without any discomfort.
Contrary to popular belief, a comfortable sandal isn’t just about a thick sole. Several factors come into play to provide good support and minimise pain.
Opt for a sole that offers good cushioning and arch support, especially if you walk a lot. Styles with adjustable straps also provide better support for the foot and reduce the friction that causes blisters.
The choice of materials is just as important. Leather sandals are often more comfortable, as they soften over time, mould to the shape of your foot and allow for better breathability on the hottest days.
Finally, choose a pair that suits your everyday life. For long walks or holidays, opt for lightweight, ergonomic sandals. If you’re looking for a more elegant option, wedge sandals offer an excellent balance between style, stability and comfort.
Which brand of women’s sandals is comfortable?
Certain brands have stood out for years thanks to their expertise and their ability to combine design, high-quality materials and walking comfort. Whilst each has its own unique features, they all share a common goal: to offer shoes that are comfortable to wear all day long.
Birkenstock: the benchmark for comfort
It’s hard to talk about comfortable sandals without mentioning Birkenstock. The German brand has established itself as a benchmark thanks to its famous anatomical sole, designed to respect the foot’s natural shape.
Made from cork and latex, this sole provides excellent arch support and ensures even distribution of body weight. Combined with adjustable straps and high-quality materials, it offers a sense of stability that is much appreciated in everyday life.
Long regarded as purely functional footwear, Birkenstock sandals have now become true fashion icons. Iconic models such as the Arizona, the Madrid and the Gizeh appeal as much for their comfort as for their timeless style.
They are particularly well-suited to people who walk a lot or who are looking for a sandal that works just as well on holiday as it does on busy days.
Other well-known brands
Whilst Birkenstock is considered the benchmark, many other brands also offer comfortable women’s sandals, each with its own strengths:
- Les Tropéziennes by M. Belarbi appeal with their feminine designs that are easy to wear every day. They feature supple leathers, elegant lines and meticulous finishes, making them ideal for summer wear.
- Tamaris is particularly popular for the comfort technologies incorporated into certain styles, whilst offering modern collections suitable for all occasions.
- Geox specialises in breathable shoes that promote good air circulation – a real advantage when summer temperatures rise.
- Finally, brands such as Xti, Chattawak, TBS and Kickers also offer styles that combine quality craftsmanship, support and style, with varied collections to meet every need.
At Espace des Marques, we select sandals from leading brands renowned for their quality and comfort. Thanks to our clearance sale, you can enjoy on-trend styles at reduced prices, without compromising on materials or craftsmanship. It’s a great way to kit yourself out with branded footwear designed to last, whilst keeping your budget under control.
How to wear the trendiest sandals in summer 2026?
Women’s sandals are no longer just for holidays or casual outfits. In 2026, they’ve established themselves as a true style staple, capable of complementing any everyday outfit.
Minimalist flat sandals are easy to pair with a flowing maxi dress, a midi skirt or linen shorts for a natural and elegant summer look. Their simplicity means they can be paired with statement pieces without weighing down the silhouette.
Heeled sandals fit seamlessly into more formal looks. They can be worn with a flowing dress, a midi skirt or an elegant jumpsuit to elongate the silhouette. Styles with block heels are a good option for those seeking a balance between elegance and stability, particularly for evenings out or special occasions.
Wedge sandals, meanwhile, are ideal for adding structure to an outfit. They go perfectly with flowing trousers, a light jumpsuit or a wrap dress. They add height whilst remaining comfortable, making them a top choice for active days as well as summer evenings.
Sandals with chunky soles add a more modern, urban touch. They go very well with wide-leg jeans, oversized shorts or a T-shirt dress for a confident, casual look.
When it comes to colours, natural shades such as camel, beige or cognac remain the easiest to coordinate. Gold or metallic sandals, on the other hand, add a more sophisticated touch to a simple outfit.
Where can you buy trendy women’s sandals online?
With the rise of online shops, it’s now easier than ever to find trendy women’s sandals without leaving home. But you still need to know where to shop to combine style, quality and a good price.
This is precisely what Espace des Marques offers. Specialising in clearance sales of major brands, the website gives you access to affordable women’s sandals from previous or current collections, at reduced prices all year round.
You’ll find brands renowned for their comfort and quality, such as Birkenstock, Xti, Chattawak, Lemon Bay, Tommy Hilfiger and Geox, with discounts of up to 70 per cent.
This is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to stylish, durable and comfortable sandals, whilst keeping your summer 2026 budget under control.
FAQ
Leather or synthetic sandals: which to choose?
Leather sandals are the best choice for comfort and durability. They soften with wear, reduce chafing and allow your feet to breathe better in summer. Synthetic materials are cheaper but generally less breathable and less comfortable in the long run.
Flat or wedge sandals: which to choose?
Flat sandals are ideal for long walks and prioritising everyday comfort. Wedge sandals add height whilst remaining stable and comfortable.
The choice depends on how you’ll be wearing them: flat for walking, wedge for a more smart look.