Summer Sandals: 4 Trends That Ruled The Runways

It’s time to toss those boring flip-flops and dated T-straps. With summer comes warmer weather and some seriously hot sandals. Four footwear trends dominated the summer 2016 runways and we’ve picked our favorites in every style.

Gladiator/Wrap

These sandals are THE shoes everyone needs in their closet this season. If you don’t have a pair, trust us, they’re worth the investment. Super stylish and on trend, gladiators help take a simple outfit to the next level. Pair with a basic T-shirt and denim shorts and you’ll look perfectly put together.

1. Valentino Rockstud Metallic Textured-Leather Lace-Up Sandals, $1,295, Net-a-Porter

2. Schutz Gloria Sandal, $280, Revolve

3. Aquazzura Sun Valley Flat Sandals, $750, Barneys New York

4. Ancient Greek Sandals Thebes Knee-High Gladiator Sandals, $395, Barneys New York

5. Manolo Blahnik, Primathi Gladiator Sandals, $695, Barneys New York

6. L*SPACE by Cocobelle Snake Wrap Sandal, $119, Revolve

7. Cynder Gladiator, $69, Free People

Ankle Strap

Depending on how you wear it, this look can go simple and elegant or fun and funky. Sleek variations on the classic open toe and ankle strap are everywhere, so you can take your pick. We love the classic Nudist by Stuart Weitzman, or try the Ancient Greek Sandals from Barneys, which perfectly marry the gladiator and ankle strap trends in one great shoe.

1. Leather High-Heel Sandals With Contrast Strap, $218, J.Crew

2. The Nudist Sandal, $415, Stuart Weitzman

3. Ancient Greek Sandals Themis Gladiator Sandals, $255, Barneys New York

4. Marigold Block Heel, $128, Free People

Block Heel

For style and comfort, the block heel is where it’s at. Popularized in the 1960s, block heels are back and occupy a happy medium between flats and heels. Ideal for long days at the office or dancing the night away — trust us, your tired feet will thank you.

1. Schutz Enida Heel, $170, Revolve

2. The Broadband Sandal, $395, Stuart Weitzman

3. Joie Braided Strap Suede Sandal, $275, Intermix

4. Marni Leather Heels, $1,023, Forward

Embellishments

Detail is everywhere this summer. From delicate gold flowers and minimalist studs to eye-popping colors, beading and pom-poms, there’s an embellished shoe for every occasion. Whether you’re headed to a music festival or dinner at the country club, this is a trend to have fun with.