New season, new shoes! We've been waiting all year to kick back and enjoy some fun in the sun, and we plan to do so in style with some of this year's hottest summer shoe trends. If you're looking to branch out from your typical flip-flops, you're in luck! There's a variety of options out there that can help you feel comfortable and stylish all season long.
Style expert Melissa Garcia joined TODAY with Hoda & Jenna to share her favorite summer shoe trends for every occasion. Whether you're looking to stay comfy during your summer travels or need a new heel to hit the town, she has options from popular brands we know you'll love.
From New Balance sneakers to Nine West sandals, keep reading to check out all six expert-picked summer shoe trends you'll want to try.
Summer shoe trends seen on TODAY
Trend: Saturated Sneakers
Adidas Gazelle Sneakers
While Garcia loves fresh white sneakers, she says this season is all about bright-colored kicks. This Adidas option comes in green, as well as more muted shades if you're not looking for something as bold. Garcia suggests pairing them with denim, shorts or a maxi dress, but notes you'll want to keep the outfit more simple so the shoes can take center stage.
Trend: Vintage Sneakers
New Balance 574 Core Sneakers
Another way to change out your classic white sneaker is by opting for a retro-inspired shoe like this trendy New Balance option, which Garcia says is a street-style and fashion blogger favorite. According to the brand, they're designed with a suede exterior and feature a cushioned midsole for all-day comfort. Garcia says they'll look great with everything in your closet, too.
Trend: Barely There Sandal
Nine West Bassie Flat Sandals
Garcia loves this dainty and feminine sandal for a minimalistic style and she says it's also a shoe that you can pair with endless outfit options. Featuring a classic thong design, you can choose from neutral shades or fun summery hues.
Trend: Fisherman Sandal
Anthropologie Fisherman Sports Sandals
According to Garcia, the fisherman sandal is one of the biggest shoe trends of 2023. And while they're a classic style, she says this option is modernized with a chunky sole. Coming in eight different colors to choose from, Garcia suggests styling them with slouchy trousers or cropped denim pants.
Trend: Wedge heels
Marc Fischer Camira Wedge Sandal
Another shoe trend that Garcia says is making waves this summer is a sleek wedge sandal. This patent leather option has a square toe and a three-and-a-half-inch heel, which she also says will provide more comfort since it distributes weight more evenly.
Trend: Platform heels
Steve Madden Skyrise Bone Patent Heel
Garcia says platform heels are generally more comfortable than traditional heels, and that's because the design helps ease the strain on your arch. Another great benefit? She says they'll lengthen and elongate your legs. If you're ready to "heighten" your style, this sleek Steve Madden option comes with a six-inch heel and two-inch platform.
More summer shoe trends
The Shop TODAY team also consulted other stylists for their input on what trends to try right now, such as slide sandals and structured sandals.
Slide sandals
Slipping into a no-fuss sandal is one of the best parts about summertime! Both Evans and costume designer Mandi Line, who worked on the newest season of "The Bold Type," agree that slide sandals are having a moment.
"I think slides have become a thing, honestly, because after living in sweats for a year, we want simple and chic styles," Line told us.
Evans echoed her sentiments and gushed about how easy and breezy the style is for summer. "It gives every outfit an effortless feel and really speaks to my vision of a perpetual beach vacation. It also works well with everything from jeans to a kaftan," she said.
Dolce Vita Paily Slide Sandal
Line loves this fun slide for the warmer weather and said the light pink hue brings a smile to her face. "Dress these down for daytime with a great wide-leg low-rise jean or add them to a sexy nighttime all-black number to add a soft pop of color," she said.
Structured sandals
We adore our flip-flops, but sometimes you just crave a sandal with a bit more attitude. Structured styles like fisherman and gladiator sandals are in vogue for summer this year, and Line couldn't be more excited.
"You can wear these styles with a sweet summer dress or some dope Dickies pants, a white A-line tank and some gold chains," she suggested.
ASH Pacific Gladiator Sandal
Gladiator sandals are one shoe trend that will never go out of style, but Line prefers ones that have an extra dose of attitude. “These sandals are gladiators with an edge! They can take a summer dress and make it ready to hit the town if you add some chunky silver accessories and a great bag,” she said.
