How should sandals fit?

Look for silhouettes that appear to be a natural fit for the shape of your foot. “You want to ensure that there is no slipping when walking, no straps hanging or digging into your foot, and the length of the sandal is a perfect match,” said Meiklereid. “Make sure you are wearing the sandal, and it’s not wearing you.”

How do you style a chunky sandal?

Chunky sandals are having a serious moment, Meiklereid said, which begs the question: How can you style them practically? High-waisted shorts, mini dresses, and cropped denim are all compatible with chunky sandals.

The 16 Best Sandals of 2023

As warmer months approach, so does the need for a pair (or two!) of solid sandals. The alpha shoes of summer, sandals deliver more freedom to wearers, both physically and aesthetically, as they offer more breathability and creativity than any boot or snowshoe ever could. (Think of the material options alone.)

Byrdie Researched & Approved

Aerosoles’ Dada style takes our top spot because it's stylish, comfortable, and affordable. (What more could one want?) However, those looking for something more sporty and waterproof, Birkenstock's Arizona Essentials Waterproof Slide Sandal and Teva's Midform Universal Sandal are worth your consideration.

There are plenty of comfortable and highly versatile sandals that are as chic as they are practical. The styles we’re seeing include chunky flat slingbacks for walking around the city, supportive slip-ons to team with beachwear, and fresh takes on open-toe mules (the last of which are go-to's for style influencer Kelsey Kotzur, with whom we spoke while researching this article) that transition well from day to evening. In addition to those options, there are more delicate, strappy forms available. And should you wish to conceal more of your feet—namely, your toes sans pedicure—there are caged styles as well.

Ahead, discover Byrdie’s list of the best sandals on offer, as well as some expert advice for finding the best fit from Karrie Meiklereid, founder of The Style Room.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Aerosoles Dada at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA at Amazon

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Best Designer:

Christian Dior Dway Slide at Dior.com

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Best Leather:

Bottega Veneta Leather Slides at Bottegaveneta.com

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Most Versatile:

Gianvito Rossi Versilia Suede Sandals at Matchesfashion.com

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Best Chunky:

Proenza Schouler Leather Slingback Sandals at Nordstrom

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Best Strappy:

Emme Parsons Bari Leather Sandals at Net-a-Porter

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Best Flatform:

Dr. Martens Blaire Quad at Amazon

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Best Structured:

Cult Gaia Rene Raffia Mules at Nordstrom

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Best Retro-Inspired:

Chelsea Paris Toinet Leather Ankle-Strap Platform Sandals at Neiman Marcus

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In This Article

Our Picks
What To Look For
FAQ
How We Researched
Why Trust Byrdie

4.4

Nordstrom

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Aerosoles.com

A mix of style and comfort is key to any pair of great sandals. Aerosoles’ Dada style is stylish, comfortable, and affordable—it’s an infallible option. In terms of structure, the platform is built to be one of the most comfortable silhouettes; it keeps the feet flat yet supported with a natural arch. It’s also extremely wearable—you can quickly complete a look with a basic T-shirt and cropped jeans.

Price at time of publish: $110

Heel Height: 2 inches | Colors: Black, Soft Gold, Off-White, Tan, Grey Velvet, +more | Size Range: 5-12

Birkenstock

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Walmart

Birkenstock is known for producing high-quality, comfortable sandals, so it's easy to see why this sleek version is one of the brand's most popular styles on offer. The lightweight, waterproof shoes have a shock-absorbing footbed, ample arch support, and a flexible sole with excellent traction underfoot.

Price at time of publish: $45

Heel Height: Approximately 1 inch | Colors: Black, Popcorn, Vibrant Yellow, Dusty Blue, +more | Size Range: 4-12.5 (in regular, wide, and narrow)

Dior

View On Dior.com

Christian Dior’s Dway slide is simple yet distinct. Its upper features a black-and-white embroidered logo that stands out, while the flat, slip-on construction offers an effortless appeal. This is an option that transcends trends, so while pricey, you can achieve a lower cost per wear over time.

Price at time of publish: $730

Heel Height: Less than 1 inch | Colors: Black Embroidered Cotton, Multicolor Embroidered Cotton +more | Size Range: IT/EU 34-42

Bottega Veneta Rubber Lido Debossed Leather Slides

Neiman Marcus

View On Bottegaveneta.com View On Neiman Marcus View On Net-a-Porter

Like those from Dior, Bottega Veneta’s slides are effortless and luxurious. Though, rather than using embroidery, the iconic Italian fashion house debossed its slides with a pattern that closely resembles its signature intrecciato weave. They’re also designed with a square toe and pillowy footbed for a level of comfort that only the most luxe leather and construction could provide.

Heel Height: Less than 1 inch | Colors: Moon Beam, Black, Khaki, Pistachio +more | Size Range: IT 34-42

Gianvito Rossi Versilia 20 Suede Sandals

Matches Fashion

View On Matchesfashion.com

Gianvito Rossi’s Versilia 20 is the perfect pick to take you from day to night. It offers simple lines and a strategic design, with straps that sit at the most flattering points of the ankles. Team it with everything from denim to dresses of the casual, professional, or even formal variety.

Price at time of publish: $745

Heel Height: 1 inch | Colors: Black | Size Range: IT 36-42

proenza schouler leather slingback lug sole sandals

Intermix

View On Nordstrom

If you love Proenza Schouler’s signature Chelsea boots, then you’ll love this summer special. The luxury label used the same rubber lug soles for these sandals, so, between the two styles, wearers could reap the benefits of its classic style and good grip all year long.

Heel Height: 1 inch | Colors: Black, Off-White | Size Range: FR 35-42

ShopBazaar

View On Net-a-Porter View On Shopbop.com View On Verishop.com

Emme Parsons plays with proportions for the Bari sandal, juxtaposing thin, winding straps with a thick footbed. We love that it maintains a presence without making a statement, so it’s capable of grounding everything from dresses to tailoring.

Price at time of publish: $415

Heel Height: 1 inch | Colors: Black, Sand | Size Range: IT 35-41

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Drmartens.com View On Journeys.com

In classic Doc Martens fashion, the brand makes a statement with its Blaire Quad style, which incorporates bold lines and a rich matte leather finish. As a flat platform, the shoe keeps the foot even, avoiding any stress that an exaggerated arch would cause.

Price at time of publish: $120

Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: Black, White | Size Range: 5-11

Neiman Marcus

View On Nordstrom View On Cultgaia.com View On Neiman Marcus

When it comes to conversation shoes, Cult Gaia’s Rene mules raise the bar. Set on architectural gold-plated heels that create a floating effect, these slip-on sandals, which are complete with raffia straps, embrace the natural curve of the foot.

Price at time of publish: $540

Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: Neutral | Size Range: IT 35-42

Chelsea Paris Toinet leather Ankle-Strap Platform Sandals

Neiman Marcus

View On Neiman Marcus

Add a subtle dose of grooviness to your wardrobe with the addition of these platform sandals by the label Chelsea Paris. Made in Portugal and lined with soft leather, these sandals boast a square toe, adjustable strap, and a comfortable 2.75-inch platform heel. We dream of wearing these to a trendy restaurant for happy hour, a cocktail date, or even on vacation somewhere extra warm.

Heel Height: 2.75 inches | Colors: Black, Mother of Pearl | Size Range: 6-11

Teva

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Dick's

Looking for a sporty pair of sandals to wear on long summer walks? See this pair by Teva. It boasts a hook-and-loop closure for ease of wear, and with just over an inch of height, the style splits the difference between the brand’s two-inch flatform and the lower profile original version. Also, sustainable shoppers should know it’s made from recycled and recyclable materials.

Price at time of publish: $60

Heel Height: 1.25 inches | Colors: Black, Bright Retro Multi, Lead +more | Size Range: 5-12

Loeffler Randall Penny Knotted LamÃ© Sandal

Nrdstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Loefflerrandall.com View On Shopbop.com

We can always rely on shoe and accessory label Loeffler Randall to make a statement while still maintaining a healthy dose of practicality. The crinkled lamé, a focal point at the center where the fabric is knotted in a bow, builds interest by combining shimmer, shape, and texture. The sandals are also lined in leather for comfort—a big plus considering their day-to-night appeal. Reviewers said they’ve worn them with everything from denim to formalwear.

Price at time of publish: $395

Heel Height: 3.5 inches | Colors: Gold, Beauty (pink), Black | Size Range: 5-12

Moda Operandi

View On Nordstrom View On Cettire.com View On Farfetch.com

A favorite of Kotzur, this sculptural and colorful style by Attico is the ultimate statement shoe. It’s engineered with a pyramid-shaped block heel that mirrors the angularity of the square toe, and it comes in several playful colors, like sky blue and pastel pink.

Price at time of publish: $850

Heel Height: 4.5 inches | Colors: Neon Green, Sky Blue, Fuschia, Pastel Pink +more | Size Range: EU 35-41

Courtesy of Sarah Flint

View On Sarahflint.com

Celebrities from Lady Gaga to Meghan Markle love Sarah Flint’s shoes, which the designer has said she created with the idea of elegant comfort in mind. She integrated details like a widened toe box to prevent toe crowding and a sole with ample padding and arch support to avoid general aches—ideal for wedding celebrations, no matter if you're the bride or one of their guests.

Price at time of publish: $550

Heel Height: 3 inches | Colors: Black Suede, Blush Nappa, Gold Nappa +more | Size Range: 5-11

Nordstrom

View On Amazon View On Oofos.com View On REI

Flip flops aren't known for being supportive enough to wear for days on end, but this cute pair by OOFOS is an exception to that notion. Its machine-washable foam technology is billed to absorb 37 percent more impact than traditional footwear. So, it should reduce stress on the knees, ankles, and back more than any flip flop could.

Price at time of publish: $60

Heel Height: 1.5 inches | Colors: Black, Cabernet, Forest Green +more | Size Range: 4-14

MATCHESFASHION

View On Nordstrom View On Bloomingdales View On Matchesfashion.com

Brother Vellies is the cream of the crop when it comes to trend-forward artisan-made accessories. These particular flats are hand-dyed and woven by artisans in Burkina Faso. Sustainability is top of mind for the label, too, which practices small-batch production and uses more Earth-friendly materials, like vegetable-tanned leathers, hand-carved woods, and natural dyes.

Price at time of publish: $395

Heel Height: Less than 1 inch | Colors: Sunbird, Bamako, Sahara | Size Range: 5-12

Meet the Expert

Kelsey Kotzur is a Brooklyn-based digital creator and fashion enthusiast.
Karrie Meiklereid is a fashion executive and the founder of The Style Room, a website powered by Zappos that’s curated with on-trend clothing, shoes, and accessories.

What to Look for When Shopping for Sandals

Quality

Be it a casual slip-on or a more refined, strappy kind, a well-made pair of sandals can last you years. When looking for the perfect pair of sandals, note the quality of materials used and attention to detail in a given pair. For dressier ones, are the soles lined in luxe leather, and are there any interesting details, like custom embroidery or a sculptural heel? Are the sportier pairs waterproof, and is there a deliberate attempt to create arch support? These are some questions to ask yourself when trying to determine what sets some sandals apart from the lot.

Versatility

Beautiful, well-made sandals can be expensive—a financial pain that can be remedied by strategic buying to lower your cost per wear. Quality certainly plays a role, as having a pair of shoes that is both visually interesting and built to last will naturally result in more wear over time. Though, choosing a more versatile form, one that you can dress up or down, is another way to get the most out of a pair of shoes. In this case, look for shoes in neutral tones (metallics count) with moderate heel heights to ensure that you can style them with many things and avoid discomfort during long wear times.

FAQ

How should sandals fit?

Look for silhouettes that appear to be a natural fit for the shape of your foot. “You want to ensure that there is no slipping when walking, no straps hanging or digging into your foot, and the length of the sandal is a perfect match,” said Meiklereid. “Make sure you are wearing the sandal, and it’s not wearing you.”
How do you style a chunky sandal?

Chunky sandals are having a serious moment, Meiklereid said, which begs the question: How can you style them practically? High-waisted shorts, mini dresses, and cropped denim are all compatible with chunky sandals.

How We Researched

To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best products on the market in this category, evaluating their key features—like ingredients, shade range, or design—in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. We then used this research to assign a star rating from one to five (five being the best; one being the worst) to certain products on the list.

Why Trust Byrdie

Hayley Prokos is a Los Angeles-based writer and editor focused on fashion and lifestyle. She contributes regularly to Byrdie’s commerce section and has a passion for sourcing chic and practical pieces with long-term wearability. After hours of researching and chatting with our experts, she’s gathered enough insight to determine which sandals are worth buying this season.

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