Sandals to buy right now, in all of this year's hot trends

Notwithstanding all of the recent rain and dreary temps, it's actually almost pedicure season! In fact, now is the best time to go shopping for sandals, especially if you have a common shoe size that might sell out in the most popular colours and styles.

This summer, it's all about the (relatively) wearable, walkable shoe. From utilitarian, lug-sole flats inspired by the iconic Birkenstock profile to square toe heels last seen in the '90s, many designers showed sandals designed for movement and ease. And, most are minimally unembellished, relying on interesting shapes and great materials to make an impression.

Here's our shortlist of the season's hottest sandals.

The woven sandal

Woven and braided leather and raffia sandals are trending this season; we spotted them in the spring retail collections of Salvatore Ferragamo, Bottega Veneta and Proenza Schouler. There's a wide variety of stylish shapes, from mules to slides to espadrilles — it's just a matter of personal preference.

Brette Woven Sandal With Metal Circle Heel, about $530 CAD, Loeffler Randall

Leather Slides, $64.99, H&M

Ybaolla, $60, Aldo

The go-anywhere flip flop

Believe it or not, flip flops are in fashion. The models at Tibi wore flip flops with tailored suits at New York Fashion Week, Jil Sander featured flatform versions, and designer labels Simon Miller and Rebecca Minkoff have released their own takes on the iconic thong sandal for spring. The key to making this trend work off the runway? Avoiding the basic rubber styles in favour of something a bit more polished.

Pigments, about $67 CAD, Tkees

Cult Gaia Jasmine Sandals, $522.91, Shopbop

Leather Straps Sandals, $69.99, Mango

The square toe heel

Square toe heels made a splash in the Spring/Summer 2019 collections at Rejina Pyo and Balenciaga, and a number of footwear brands have also embraced this wearable trend. Look for a minimalist, sleek leather or suede design that is versatile and will have staying power.

Violeta by Mango Leather Strap Sandals, $149.99, Mango

Rejina Pyo Strappy Leather Sandals, $705, Hudson's Bay

Wood Heeled Leather Sandals, $49.90, Zara

The lug sole flat

On the Spring/Summer 2019 runways at Hermès, Sacai and Monse, utilitarian flats grounded everyday separates as well as flowy dresses. Featuring wide straps and sturdy lug soles, the best styles could be worn from day to night…and in comfort!  

Dr. Martens Black Ryker Sandals, $140, Ssense

Vachel Too Slide, $223.11, Rebecca Minkoff

Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.