Summer 2025 Shoe Trends You Need to Know

With Summer fast approaching, footwear is getting a fresh update for 2025. From statement wedges to barely there sandals, this year’s trends are all about balancing comfort, versatility, and flair, making it easier than ever to build outfits that feel as good as they look.

Planning outfits for a packed summer calendar? Rachel Clinkard, Ecommerce Director at Charles Clinkard, walks us through the top footwear trends for Summer 2025, including how they can be worn for the season’s biggest events. 

Woven shoes

Tactile and effortlessly chic, woven shoes are set to be one of this Summer’s most versatile trends. Spotted on the runways of Chloé, Fendi, and Stella McCartney, these textural styles work beautifully for both casual and formal looks. Natural materials like raffia and leather lend breathability, while the intricate weaves add polish and detail to any outfit.

How to style them:

Pair woven sandals with a linen midi dress for a weekend brunch, or a tailored two-piece set for the office. Neutral tones will create a natural, organic look, while metallics will add some pizzazz to an evening outing.

The return of flip-flops

Injecting a dose of beach energy into everyday dressing, the humble flip flop has had a serious style reboot for 2025. Forget rubber and foam —  designers are giving toe-post styles a fashion-forward edge with heels, sculptural soles, premium materials, and hardwear details like studs and zips. 

How to style them:

Lean into “beach chic” by pairing elevated flip flops with a floral maxi dress and oversized sunglasses — perfect for a day on the sand or an alfresco summer wedding. Look for cushioned footbeds or wide fit options to stay supported.

Gladiator chic

Inspired by classical silhouettes, gladiator and lace-up leather sandals are back this year, but with a softer, more refined feel. Expect criss-cross ankle ties, toe loops, and soft, earth-toned leather leading the trend.

How to style them:

These sandals shine with floaty, boho-style dresses, wide-leg trousers, or a tailored shorts and blazer combo. Stylish yet practical, they’re a great option for day-long events like festivals, open-air concerts, or outdoor sporting events.

All things chunky

Wood and cork soles are making a comeback in the form of retro clogs, sculptural wedges or open back mules. These chunky styles offer elevation and drama, but without the pain of a stiletto. Plus, they’re better for stability on uneven terrain. 

How to style them:

Pair cork wedges with a floral wrap dress for timeless Summer elegance, or go bold with a statement mule and printed palazzo trousers. Prioritise styles with padded soles for added comfort during all-day wear.

Dressing for summer events

A great summer is packed with occasions that call for your best-dressed self, and the right shoe can elevate your look while keeping your feet feeling fresh and comfortable from day to night. Here are some tips to help you put your best foot forward, no matter the occasion:

Weddings

Wedding venues can vary from rustic barns to seaside settings, so you’ll need a pair of occasion shoes that look great and can handle any terrain. Block-heel sandals are a great go-to, offering stability on uneven ground (grass, cobbles, or dancefloors). Soft metallics or nude tones pair beautifully with most colour palettes. If you’re likely to be on your feet for hours, consider a wide fit style with ankle straps for added support. Low wedges or heeled mules are stylish alternatives to heels that balance height with comfort.

Wimbledon

The dress code of this iconic sporting event is all about relaxed elegance. Flat sandals in leather or suede work beautifully here, adding polish without being too formal. Alternatively, opt for an elevated trainer in crisp white or metallic hues. Just be sure your footwear can handle a little walking, as you’ll likely be making your way through grass and gravel. 

Royal Ascot

With its formal dress code and day-long schedule, Ascot requires thoughtful outfit planning. Kitten heels, mules with block bases, or elegant wide fit sandals with refined details like gold buckles all make great picks. Avoid stilettos, which tend to sink into lawns, and don’t forget to double-check the rules of your enclosure — certain areas may require enclosed toes.

Comfort tips from the experts

Whether you’ll be navigating cobbled streets or standing trackside at Ascot, comfort is just as important as style. Here’s how to stay on your feet all day without sacrificing your look:

• Fit over form: No matter how stylish, poorly-fitting shoes can ruin your outfit (and your day). Feet naturally swell in hot weather, so opt for wide fit styles that give toes some wiggle room. This is especially important in sandals, where straps can start to dig in as the day goes on.
• Choose breathable materials: When it comes to comfort, material matters. Natural fabrics like leather, canvas, or woven raffia allow for airflow and tend to mould more gently to your feet. Unlike synthetics, they also wick away moisture, minimising rubbing and blisters.
• Break them in ahead of time: New shoes will benefit from a few wears before an event. Try wearing them around the house with socks or using a shoe stretcher for tight spots.
• Use add-ons: Gel pads and cushioned insoles make a major difference in heels or hard-soled styles. To avoid friction, apply anti-chafing balm where straps rub, and keep blister plasters in your bag for emergencies.
• Pack a plan B: If you’re headed to a day-long event, stash a slim pair of foldable flats in your bag to subtly slip on when needed. That way, you can keep enjoying the day pain-free.

Whether you’re off to a destination wedding, soaking up the atmosphere at Wimbledon, or dressing for a day at the races, this summer’s footwear trends offer something for every style and setting. To step into the season with confidence, prioritise comfort, breathability, and inclusive sizing, ensuring your shoes work as hard as your outfit. With the right pair, you can enjoy summer in style, while staying comfortable from morning to night.

Top image: M&S Autograph Blazer £99, Autograph Lace Shirt £65, Autograph Lace Skirt £65, Earrings £12.50 (April 25), Sandals £39.50 (Sept 24)