Sandal Trends 2021: Shop Flatfoms, Birkenstocks and Other Trendy Choices

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Look, summer is here and you could probably wear some new sandals. Maybe it’s because I’ve been sitting in my apartment in fluffy socks for the whole last year, but a girl could seriously use a vacation and a reason to show off my pedicure. Fortunately, these 2021 sandal trends will help me do just that.

I’m usually more of the sneaker type in summer, but I feel like summer 2021 will be when I first dive into sandals. Plus, all of this season’s trends are too fun to ignore, from those with puffy padded shoulder straps to options that are adorned with maximalist chain details. I’m especially excited about the latter – there are tons of options that come with gold or silver chains, so now you can match your shoes with your jewelry. Earn bonus points by adding a matching chain strap bag.

Don’t worry, there are also more minimalist sandal trends to obsess over. Platforms are back in full force this summer, proving just how much of a difference pulling a few extra inches can make. At 5’2, it’s safe to say that I’m personally pretty excited about it. Another great look are heeled thongs, spotted on celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Emily Ratajkowski and Rihanna (!!).

You know what I mean? These trends are definitely worth investing in! Read on to see and buy some of my favorite styles for summer 2021. Don’t be mad at me when you end up buying a few pairs in the process.

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This is all about the puff this year. While inflated bags had their heyday in 2020, the trend took over footwear in 2021. Think small padded pillows for your feet that feel as good as they look. Personally, I can’t think of a better sandal substitute for my well worn 2020 slippers.

Courtesy of Zara.

Sandals with gathered straps

Kelly green still reigns supreme on my Instagram feed, so this pair of Sandals with gathered straps of Zara are worth 100 percent of shopping this summer.

Courtesy of Kenneth Cole.

Nova padded slides

If you’re looking for a pair of simple black slides to buy now and wear forever, consider these Nova padded slides by Kenneth Cole.

Courtesy of R0AM.

Inflated slides

Alternatively, hot pink is also one of the most requested shades of this season. Rock that pair of Inflated slides from R0AM to the swimming pool.

The classic Birkenstock sandal is back with a bang right now. Sure, they’re pretty chunky, but this look is all the rage in 2021. From simple suede pairs that you can wear every day to patterned or denim alternatives that stand out in the crowd (remember crowds?), it looks like you can justify buying multiple pairs.

Courtesy of Birkenstock.

Arizona suede sandals

Start strong here with a pair of old classics Arizona suede sandals from Birkenstock. You will literally want to wear them everywhere.

Courtesy of Freedom Moses.

x Moses two-band plain and striped slides

These rubber Moses two-stripe mules from Freedom Moses just got the cutest upgrade thanks to a new collaboration with Solid & Striped.

Courtesy of Mango.

Cotton denim sandals

If you’re worried about your foot sticking out the back of a sandal, consider checking out these Cotton denim sandals of Mango.

As Ciara once said: “5, 4, 3, 2, 1 Let’s go! Actually, I’m not sure if she was talking about platform shoes specifically in her top-of-the-charts banger, but she should have, given their popularity. Little girls looking for a little height, rejoice! (And say goodbye to your sore heels).

Courtesy of Steve Madden.

Courtesy of Jeffrey Campbell.

Courtesy of STAUD.

Fly platform sandals

the Fly platform sandals by STAUD are on my must-have shopping list this summer because they will give all thumbs up to my little frame.

Go big or go home and after a whole year at home there’s a good chance you don’t want to keep doing the latter. Think shoes and blingy chain embellishments that add a little extra to classic silhouettes I do not know what. If you think they might be too much, buy them.

Courtesy of Good American.

Chain platform slides

Gold details make this pair of black Chain platform slides from Good American feels modern and chic. They will even match your favorite jewelry!

Courtesy of Zara.

Low heel sandals with chain trim

These Low heel sandals with chain trim are about as chic as the apartments. Shoe jewelry is totally a thing now!

Courtesy of Raye.

Margaret heels

A thin fine chain on these STRIPED Margaret heels makes them feel so much more chic. The low heel also makes them ideal for summer weddings.

So you hiked once and now you think you are the star of Free solo? I get it. Discover the 2021 version of sports shoes: hiking sandals. From Rainbow Brite colourways to more neutral alternatives, this year it’s all about shoes that let you get out into the wild or at least look what you want.

Courtesy of TEVA.

Universal platform sandals

If you are looking for sporty sandals, you must invest in Universal platform sandals by TEVA. Nothing more classic than this pair!

Courtesy of Zara.

Rubberized low heel sandals

Even Zara has her take on utility-inspired shoes. These olive green Rubberized low heel sandals are too cute (and too affordable) to leave out.

Courtesy of Everlane.

Flip-flops, but make it 2021. Add a heel for a little lift and boom, your favorite summer shoe is transformed. You might not want to wear them to the beach, but they’re perfect for a date and sweet summer love.

Courtesy of ALOHAS.

Beijo sandals

A thick low heel and a peach colourway make these Beijo sandals by ALOHAS a must have in your summer shoe collection.

Courtesy of Marc Fisher LTD.

Courtesy of Mango.

Braided heel sandals

Mango knows how to make a good sandal. This pair of white sandals has a braided design on the front that screams summer.