Summer Sandals

  It is too hot in the summer heat to wear a pair of trendy trainers so a new pair of cool, sexy and sleek sandals is the way to go. Men’s sandals aren’t what they use to be. Now there are more brands jumping into this territory, creating many great styles to choose from. The three most popular styles for this summer are the good old flip flop, the slip-on sandal, and the criss cross sandal. All of these sandals are personality- and style-driven, so you should get the one that matches you and you only!

  First, let's begin with flip flops. Flip flops have been around for ages and you probably have some old Havaianas or Reefs from last season sitting in your closet which are oldies but goodies. This summer, the flip flops are just a bit more sophisticated and stylish. Some brands, such as the Hawaiian brand Olukai, are even adding in more support to the flip flop so it feels similar to wearing sports shoes. The style “Hiapo” is a flip flop that comes in java (brown) or black. This flip flop has extra padding constructed in the shoe so it will stay comfortable all day long. The next brand is Cole Haan, making the “Finely Thong”. This shoe comes in only one color: khaki. Cole Haan has been perfecting comfort for years so with this flip flop they added extra padding into their sole to do what they do best! Last but not least is the Prada leather thong. This sandal is the classic black flip flop: sleek and black with rubber soles, a leather foot bed, and a stylish leather strap which goes with anything! These three flip flop styles are a fun and young look that are a step up from last season and have a more stylish feel to them. Flip flops go with anything!

  The next style of sandal is the slip-on sandal. These sandala are just starting to become popular. Wear this style of sandal for a more mature look. It has one thick strap on the top and the same foot bed for the sole of the shoe as a regular sandal. The Ugg “dunne” leather slide sandal is a great simple style that comes in black and brandy (brown). This shoe has Ugg’s signature shearling detail on the top on a little snap. This is the more relaxed look in the slip-on category. The next style of slip-on sandals I would suggest is the Prada “Novo” sandal. This sandal only comes in black. It is simple and sleek, has the Prada logo on top of the sandal strap, and goes with anything! The last slip-on sandal we will discuss is the Gucci sandal which comes in either black or white. I would suggest only getting the black, since the white doesn’t look very good. This sandal is made of leather and has a Gucci crest up top which blends in very well with the leather. All three of these styles can be paired with linen pants, cargo pants, or jeans for a great summer look.

  The last important style of sandal is the criss cross sandal. This sandal type is very popular in the stores right now. It takes the young feeling of a flip flop and crosses it over with the mature look of a slip-on sandal. And just like flip flops, they can be worn with almost anything! Prada’s “Linea Rossa” comes in black and navy and is a great criss cross sandal. It has nylon top straps and a real leather sole. This is an all-around great shoe which looks good in both available colors. Just Cavalli also makes a great criss cross sandal which has a little more funk to it with a snakeskin trim added to its already cool olive color leather. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s criss cross strap has the Just Cavalli logo in a gold tone. This Cavalli sandal is a really funky choice! Last is another designer known for its classy but unique designs, Dolce and Gabanna. D&G’s “Patent/Canvas” sandal has patent leather detail on a canvas criss cross strap, extra padding in the insole, and a rubber sole. This shoe is what D&G is known for: sexy! All of these criss cross shoes are great for daytime or evening and you can wear them with just about anything!

  It is now a whole new world in men’s sandals department. Choice is unlimited and the styles are surprisingly sophisticated. With all of these choices, you should have no trouble finding the sandal that’s right for you!

About the author:

  Rochel Friedlander has spent her last five years working in men's fashion in New York City. Now living in Los Angeles, she continues to move forward in the fashion industry. During her sales experience, she has guided such retailers as Macys, Urban Outfitters, Atrium, E street denim, and National Jean Company to hit the right trends in the marketplace. Her knowledge of men's fashion comes from her experience and extensive travel of the world. She has spent years living in London, England and toured through France, Australia, Greece, Italy, and many more countries. This has helped her understanding of European trends and how they are transposed into the North American market.