Summer Party Shoe Guide: The Best Designer Sandals for Every Event

Summer celebrations call for footwear that feels as considered as the rest of your look. The best designer sandals strike a careful balance between polish and practicality: they should complement the occasion, support your feet, and still feel special enough for dressing up. From relaxed cookouts to formal weddings, the right pair can shift the tone of an outfit instantly.

Stylish Sandals for Casual Cookouts

Backyard barbecues and casual cookouts call for relaxed yet polished footwear. Think espadrilles, mules, and wedges that add a touch of sophistication without feeling overdressed.

Christian Louboutin Trepi Platform Wedge Sandal – $750 via Neiman Marcus

Stuart Weitzman TieGirlBingo Suede Sandals – $425 via Net-a-Porter

Jimmy Choo Dreya Embroidered Mesh Espadrilles – $395 via Net-a-Porter

Mansur Gavriel Suede Mules – $395 via Net-a-Porter

Tory Burch Crab Striped Espadrille – On sale for $110 via Neiman Marcus

Chic Choices for Pool Parties

Poolside dressing works best when the shoes feel light, low-maintenance, and slightly playful. Water-friendly materials and easy slip-on shapes are ideal, especially if you expect to move between lounge chairs, wet surfaces, and socializing. Jelly styles, slides, and pared-back gladiator sandals keep the look relaxed while still bringing in a designer finish.

Givenchy Nea Jelly Flat Sandals – $295 via Saks

Kate Spade New York Ibis Slide Sandal – $98 via Nordstrom

Nicholas Kirkwood Casati Embellished Metallic Patent-Leather Sandals – $695 via Net-a-Porter

Loeffler Randall Bo Gladiator Sandals – $225 via ShopBop

Comfortable Footwear for Music Festivals

Festival season calls for shoes that can handle hours of standing, dancing, and walking on grass or pavement. Sneakers and flat espadrilles are your best friends.

Vince Blair Slip On Sneakers – $195 via ShopBop

Gucci Tian Espadrille – $395 via Gucci

Adidas Stan Smith Sneaker – $75 via Nordstrom

Valentino Rockstud Double Ankle-Wrap Flat Espadrille – $895 via Bergdorf Goodman

Elegant Options for Weddings

Wedding guest footwear should feel polished enough for formal photos but comfortable enough to last through the ceremony and beyond. Embellished sandals, crystal details, and metallic finishes are all strong choices when you want to add glamour without overwhelming the outfit. If the dress code is more formal, a sculpted heel or refined peep-toe silhouette can help the whole look feel complete.

Aquazzura Disco Thing Sequin-Embellished Sandal – $925 via Bergdorf Goodman

Jimmy Choo Viola Crystal Suede Sandals – $975 via Saks

Prada Embellished Metallic Leather Pumps – $970 via Saks

Oscar de la Renta Ambria Embroidered Metallic Peep-Toe Sandals – $1,190 via Saks

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