Elegant Summer Shoes That Aren’t Sandals
Let’s get one thing straight: not all of us are sandal people. Sure, strappy slides and barely-there heels look great on someone else’s Pinterest board—but between blisters, chipped pedicures, and the fact that not all of us feel like airing our toes 24/7, sandals just aren’t always it.
So, what’s a girl to do when it’s 90°F, and you still want to look polished, not melty?
Enter: elegant summer shoes that aren’t sandals. Yes, they exist. And yes, they’ll keep you looking chic and feeling comfortable—without a single toe making a guest appearance.
Let’s talk through the options. Because your summer style deserves better than choosing between stilettos or flip-flops.
Why Skip Sandals? (And No, You’re Not the Only One)
Let’s normalize this real quick: you don’t have to wear sandals just because it’s summer.
Maybe you:
Work in a professional setting that requires closed-toe shoes.
Are constantly freezing (even in July, hi A/C).
Prefer a bit more coverage (blisters from strappy sandals are not glamorous).
Just don’t like how sandals look with your outfits. FYI, that’s a totally valid reason.
So, if you’ve ever stood in your closet thinking, “Why do all summer shoe options feel…exposed?”—you’re not alone. I’ve been there. Multiple times. Probably this week.
1. Loafers: Polished, Cool, and Surprisingly Breezy
You didn’t expect loafers to make the summer list? Let me change your mind.
Why loafers work for summer:
Breathable materials like woven leather or linen keep your feet from roasting.
They instantly make you look like a put-together adult human.
You can wear them with basically anything—dresses, trousers, shorts, you name it.
My go-to pair? A beige leather pair from Everlane that I’ve worn with flowy dresses, wide-leg linen pants, and even cut-off denim. Yes, loafers and cut-offs. Try it before you judge.
2. Ballet Flats: The Ultimate Quiet Luxury Pick
Oh, ballet flats. The shoe that always comes back when we least expect it. IMO, this is the year they finally got their glow-up—and I’m not mad about it.
What makes them summer-friendly:
Slim profile = no sweating in clunky shoes.
Pairs beautifully with midi skirts and sundresses.
Brands are making them way more comfortable now (shoutout to padded soles!).
Tip: Stick to lighter shades like cream, blush, or camel to keep things summery and elegant. Black flats in July can look a little… funeral-ish.
3. Espadrilles (But Not the Wedge Kind)
Espadrilles get a bad rap because people automatically picture those thick platform wedges from 2012. But hear me out: flat espadrilles with a sleek design? Summer magic.
Why they’re a win:
They’re made from natural, breathable materials (think canvas or jute).
They feel coastal, even if you’re landlocked.
You can slip them on and go—no straps, no fuss.
I wore tan espadrille mules on a trip to Spain last summer and didn’t take them off the entire time. Zero blisters. All the style.
4. Mesh Flats: Chic, Airy, and Kind of Addictive
Ever tried a mesh shoe? Game-changer.
Mesh or crochet-style flats are perfect for summer because they literally let your feet breathe while still giving you the coverage you want.
Best features:
Lightweight and packable.
Trendy but still understated.
Looks amazing with wide-leg trousers and relaxed tailoring.
Bonus: they usually come in neutral tones, which makes them even more of a capsule wardrobe dream.
5. Mules: A Slip-On Staple (With No Toe Drama)
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the mule—specifically the closed-toe, backless kind.
Why you’ll love them:
They’re the ultimate slip-on.
They give you that elegant, minimal look.
You can find pairs in leather, suede, linen, or even raffia.
They give off “I summer in Tuscany” energy—even if your actual plan is brunch at your local café. Which, IMO, is just as valid. 🙂
6. Sneakers (Yes, Really—But Make Them Fashion)
No, I’m not talking about your gym trainers.
Sleek, low-profile sneakers are the underdog of summer elegance. Style them right, and they can be just as polished as loafers.
Look for:
Minimalist designs in white, beige, or blush.
Leather or canvas materials.
A slim silhouette (leave the chunky dad shoes for your streetwear era).
I wear my white Veja sneakers with flowy white linen pants and a tank, and people always ask where I got my outfit. It’s the sneakers, trust me.
7. Kitten Heel Pumps: The Soft-Glam Hero
Sometimes you want a bit of height without teetering around like a newborn giraffe. Enter: kitten heels.
Summer-friendly versions include:
Slingback kitten heels in cream or tan.
Mesh or crochet versions for that barely-there vibe.
Pointed-toe styles that elongate the leg without making you suffer.
FYI, they pair beautifully with floaty skirts, tailored shorts, and cropped trousers.
8. Backless Oxfords or Derby Shoes
Wait—aren’t oxfords for fall? Normally, yes. But the backless version (think: hybrid between a mule and a loafer) is a sleeper hit for summer.
Why you need them:
They’re sharp and structured without being stuffy.
Work perfectly for business-casual dress codes.
Keep your foot secure but still let air flow.
Pair with culottes, straight-leg jeans, or even a shirtdress for that “cool, not trying too hard” energy.
How to Choose the Right Elegant Summer Shoe (Without Going Broke or Blistered)
Choosing the right pair depends on your summer life. Are you mostly walking? Office-bound? Beachy brunches? Here’s a cheat sheet.
Ask yourself:
Do I need walk-all-day comfort? → Try mesh flats or sneakers.
Do I want a little polish? → Go for loafers or backless mules.
Am I dressing up for something? → Kitten heels or sleek espadrilles.
Pro tip: Stick to neutral tones like beige, ivory, tan, and blush. They go with everything, make your outfit feel lighter, and give that effortless elegance vibe.
Where to Shop Elegant Summer Shoes That Aren’t Sandals
You don’t have to spend a fortune to find something chic. I’ve found some of my favorite pairs at surprisingly budget-friendly places.
Some go-to spots:
Everlane – Timeless and sustainable.
Sézane – French-girl perfection.
Mango – Affordable and trend-forward.
Nisolo – Great for ethical, wearable styles.
Charles & Keith – Budget-friendly but looks designer.
And yes, Etsy has some gems if you want handmade or unique styles.
How to Style These Shoes Without Looking Overdressed (or Overheated)
t’s summer. You don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard—or sweating through your chic look.
A few styling formulas:
Mesh flats + linen shorts + tucked-in tee
Cream loafers + breezy midi dress
Kitten heels + wide-leg pants + cropped blouse
Espadrille mules + tiered maxi dress
Backless oxfords + belted shirt dress
The key? Balance. Mix elegant shoes with light, flowy pieces so you don’t feel weighed down.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve More Than Sandals This Summer
Sandals are fine. But they’re not the only way to keep your style cool, chic, and summer-appropriate.
With mesh flats, elegant mules, ballet flats, or low-profile sneakers, you can look polished without sacrificing comfort—or exposing your toes if you’re just not in the mood. (Honestly, same.)
So next time someone says, “It’s too hot to wear closed-toe shoes,” just smile… and show them your breathable bouclé mules. Because elegant summer shoes that aren’t sandals? Oh, they’re very much a thing.
Now, go give your sandals a little break. They’ve had their moment. 😉
