Resort SS19: The sandals you need right now...

In the words of Ricky Thompson, we are ‘booked and busy’, the suitcase is packed, the pedi is done and all we need are the right pair of sandals to complete our summer style.

Do we stick with the gladiators, rely on the trusty espadrilles or take it up a notch with a chunky flatform? Choosing the ideal summer sandal can be a tricky feat (see what we did there?) and ensuring you discover the perfect pair our womenswear buying team have expertly selected an edit of the best-of-the-best this season.

From the barely there to the sporty, let us introduce you to your latest wardrobe additions from the likes of Valentino, Jil Sander and Studio Amelia.

Shop Sandals

Leaving very little to the imagination, the barely there sandal delicately frames the foot with minimal thin straps, ultra-flat soles and the occasional PVC detailing, in keeping with the naked illusion. Despite their subtle appearance, they definitely stand out whilst remaining chic and elegant. Known for their understated silhouettes, Neous have gone near naked with their PVC Opus sandals this summer. Choosing the carefully placed strap detail, Studio Amelia and Ancient Greek Sandals keep it simple but demand attention.

The timeless gladiator sandal has evolved, adding multiple straps and delicate detailing but retaining its classic style. A dominant style during the ‘90s, the strappy sandal is pretty versatile and adds a touch of effortless femininity to any look. This summer we are looking to Reike Nen’s square toe sandals, Valentino’s iconic Rockstud and the block heels from Marques’almeida for inspiration.

They have accompanied us every holiday since childhood and continue to be our go-to for the beach. Whether you prefer the flat ‘70s plimsole style or add a wedge to compliment your Reformation dress, the espadrille never fails to radiate summer vibes. Discover one in every colour and height from Castañer, match your baroque beach towel with a Versace pair and add a subtle logo with Prada.

They may have been dubbed the ‘ugly’ sandal, but the sporty version was the super brand’s favourite for SS19. With chunky, performance style sneakers infiltrating our footwear collection for the past two seasons, it was only a matter of time before they influenced our summer look. Gucci took it to the extreme this season with a sneaker hybrid sling back, Prada gave us noughties vibes and Chloé added multiple fastening with their utility style.

The poolside companion that is as essential as sunscreen in our beach bag. Easy to slip on, the minimal slide sandal is no longer limited to the rubber sports style and most designers have ensured they have their own version for SS19. The new slide queen Carrie Forbes keeps it traditional with woven raffia patterns, Gucci’s version wouldn’t be Gucci without the addition of the horsebit buckle and Demna remains true to the original with Balenciaga’s style.

The Spice Girls are mid-tour and we have platforms on the mind. Giving our Buffalo sneakers a rest, we have added some serious height (and girl power) with this season’s flatform sandals. Unapologetically chunky, there are many hybrid styles combining this season’s summer trends such as the Jil Sander version with  soft leather crossover straps atop a curved wooden sole. Simon Miller designed a supersize version of a classic ‘90s silhouette and Chloé added the espadrille raffia sole, giving us the best of both.

Shop Sandals

Words by Alexandra Oliver