Summer 2025 Shoe Edit

I loved putting together a Spring Break Wishlist and Style Guide, and I thoroughly enjoyed all of the feedback and engagement with that post specifically. So as the weather starts to warm up, I thought it would be the perfect time for a summer series!

Growing up in a coastal town, I despised wearing shoes over the summer. Something about the warm sand and the need to run from beach to beach made anything with a sole feel like a betrayal of the season. But as I’ve grown up, I’ve been on the hunt for something that keeps that carefree, barefoot energy without sacrificing style or comfort.

Footwear can set the tone for any look, in form and in function. This summer, the emphasis is on thoughtfully designed shoes that combine comfort with chic structure. 

Below, I’ve curated an edit of this season’s most compelling shoes, grouped by category. Each pair brings something distinct to your summer wardrobe, and reflects a balance of minimalism, material sophistication, and wearability. 

This list is highly focused on sustainably conscious brands, committed to ethical sourcing, transparency, and circular design. However, I want to include a brief disclaimer: it also features a few brands that, while not yet industry leaders in sustainability, are taking steps toward more responsible practices. After conducting research on the 2025 sustainability goals and public commitments of the following brands, I made a conscious decision to include them:

• On Running, for instance, has launched initiatives like the Cyclon program, offering fully recyclable shoes on a subscription basis, and continues to expand its use of bio-based materials. While not all lines are fully sustainable, the brand’s innovation pipeline is moving in a promising direction.

• Miista has shifted its production to Spain, prioritizing craftsmanship and localized supply chains. While its sustainability reporting could be more robust, its use of high-quality, long-lasting materials and slow fashion ethos aligns with the values of mindful consumption.

• Havaianas has made notable strides in sustainability. As of 2025, 97% of their sandals are produced with approximately 40% reused rubber. They have also implemented the reCYCLE program, encouraging customers to return used flip-flops for recycling. 

• Jeffrey Campbell has explored sustainable options through collaborations. Notably, their partnership with Berkeley-based boutique Convert resulted in a vegan-friendly shoe collection made from biodegradable fibers and jute, free of animal products.

Including these labels reflects the complexities of shopping sustainably. Progress, not perfection, is often the more realistic standard. The goal is not only to provide a guide to seasonal dressing, but also to support a more informed and intentional wardrobe evolution.

Sandals:

• Alohas Tory Sandals (Burgundy)
  Structured and intentional, the Tory sandal is made for someone who values symmetry and contrast. The deeper burgundy tone elevates it from typical neutrals, while the angular lines pair seamlessly with a more feminine look for the perfect contrast. Ideal for transitional summer evenings with a pair of denim shorts.

• Dolce Vita Judy Ankle Wrap Sandal (Black Leather)
  With its slim profile and wrap-around ankle detail, this sandal is grounded yet light. It offers subtle drama without dominating the outfit. Use it to anchor flowy silhouettes or add tension to minimalist separates.

• Havaianas Una Acai Sandal (Rust Metallic)
  A functional option with sculptural appeal. The copper-toned finish lends it a twist, suitable for styling with monochrome neutrals or relaxed summer suiting. Ideal for travel or urban exploring, where style and utility must co-exist.

• Jeffrey Campbell Origins Gladiators (Khaki Suede)
  The soft suede construction offsets the bold silhouette. I would love to wear these on a tropical vacation styled with earth tones and an architectural set. It is a bold option that I personally will be wearing all summer long.

Ballet Flats and Loafers

• Miista Yeida Ballerinas (Dark Red)
  A strong silhouette softened by high-quality leather, this is not a nostalgic ballet flat, but a refined, statement flat for structured wardrobes. The deep color makes it seasonless, easily styled with tapered denim, silk trousers, or minimal slip dresses.

• Alohas Sway Ballet Flats (Vanilla Leather)
  A cleandesign that prioritizes material and proportion. The neutral leather and square toe bring a sculptural element to everyday styling. This is a day-to-night flat when paired with sharp tailoring. I think this is my favorite pair yet.

• Bibi Lou Zagreb Slip-On Loafers
  For those who prefer a grounded base, this is for you. The woven detailing and soft structure make it feel practical, yet refined. I have them in burgundy and the quality is fabulous. 

• Seychelles Monet Mules (Tan Leather)
  These mules offer an elegant shape that is easy to slip on, easy to style. They are breathable and have the classic lace-up detail that we commonly see in ballet flats, but with a unique twist. I also just love Seychelles, because they only produce their products in small batches by artisans worldwide. 

Boat Shoes:

• Reformation Kyla Boat Shoe
  Subtle in its reference to the traditional nautical style, this shoe strips down the boat shoe to its essentials: stitching, soft leather, and profile. I know this is a controversial shoe this year, but if done correctly, they can be so chic.

Sneakers:

• Reformation Terra Sneaker
  I believe that the Terra sneaker is such a chic sneaker because of the color. The tonal palette blends smoothly with capsule wardrobes, and the sleek silhouette is perfect with dresses and pants.

• On Cloudswift 4 Sneaker (White)
  These shoes really nail comfort without aesthetic compromise. I am not the biggest On Cloud supporter, specifically as a longer distance runner. However, I think that this shoe does a great job at being both walkable and wearable. I know that it just compliments a workout set so well for those summer night walks. They are an easy option for the white sneaker of the summer. 

At the heart of this edit is the quest to find shoes that channel the barefoot freedom of summer, while still offering the structure and sophistication that an evolving wardrobe demands. I was looking for pairs that don’t just look good, but feel good. The selections here reflect that perfect balance. They are thoughtfully designed and made to be worn on repeat. Whether it's the texture of a huarache-inspired sandal, the quiet confidence of a square-toed flat, or the practicality of a refined sneaker, each piece reflects the effortlessness of an ideal summer shoe.  

Xoxo,

Annie