5 Stylish Ways to Wear Strappy Sandals in Summer

Strappy sandals are one of summer’s most timeless footwear staples. Equal parts elegant and effortless, they strike the perfect balance between chic and casual. Whether flat or heeled, minimal or embellished, strappy sandals can elevate even the simplest outfit, making them a must-have in any warm-weather wardrobe.

The beauty of strappy sandals lies in their versatility. They can be dressed up or down, worn day or night, and paired with everything from denim to dresses. So, if you’re looking to make the most of your summer sandal collection, here are five stylish ways to wear strappy sandals that will keep you cool, comfortable and impeccably dressed all season long.

1. With a Flowy Midi Dress for Effortless Elegance

A floaty midi dress is the epitome of summer style. Light, breathable and universally flattering, it’s an ideal match for a pair of delicate strappy sandals. Whether you’re heading to a garden party, brunch with friends, or simply want to feel put-together on a sunny day, this combination is both feminine and functional.

Flat strappy sandals work beautifully for a relaxed daytime look. For a slightly dressier outfit, opt for heeled strappy sandals—block heels offer comfort while still giving a lift. Neutral shades like nude, tan or white create a soft, understated finish, while metallics add a touch of glam.

Style Tip: Choose a dress with subtle movement, such as pleats or tiers, to complement the fine lines of the sandals. Accessorise with a straw hat and a woven bag for an effortlessly stylish summer vibe.

2. With Cropped Trousers or Culottes for Smart-Casual Cool

If you’re aiming for a look that’s polished yet breathable, cropped trousers or culottes paired with strappy sandals are a winning combination. The ankle-baring cut of the trousers helps show off the sandals, making them the focal point of your outfit.

A pair of linen culottes teamed with a tucked-in blouse and strappy sandals is ideal for warm days at the office or evening drinks. Flat sandals work just as well as heels here, especially if they have interesting details like ankle ties or metallic finishes.

Style Tip: When wearing ankle-strap sandals, try to match the strap to your skin tone or keep the trousers cropped just above the ankle to avoid cutting off your leg line visually.

3. With Denim Shorts and a Breezy Top for Laid-Back Days

Strappy sandals may have a reputation for being slightly dressy, but they can be just as at home in a casual setting. When styled with denim shorts and a loose, breathable top, they create a laid-back yet stylish look that's perfect for beach days, festivals, or weekend outings.

Flat strappy sandals in leather or canvas are ideal here, especially in earthy tones like tan or khaki. If you want to make a style statement, try sandals with interesting designs like woven straps, animal prints, or colourful embroidery.

Style Tip: Roll the hem of your shorts slightly and wear with an oversized linen shirt or cotton tank. Throw on a pair of sunglasses and a crossbody bag to complete the off-duty summer look.

4. With a Slip Dress for Minimalist Glamour

The combination of a slip dress and strappy sandals is the ultimate in minimalist sophistication. Perfect for balmy summer evenings, sunset dinners, or weddings, this pairing is both elegant and effortlessly on-trend.

Go for heeled strappy sandals in a barely-there design—think thin straps and a slim heel—for a sleek, leg-lengthening effect. Satin, silk or silk-effect fabrics in the dress will enhance the overall glamour, while the simplicity of the sandals keeps things grounded.

Style Tip: Keep accessories minimal: a pair of dainty earrings, a small clutch, and a swipe of bronzer is all you need. If the dress has a bold print or colour, stick to neutral-toned sandals to balance the look.

5. With a Jumpsuit or Playsuit for Modern Utility

If you're after an outfit that’s practical yet chic, look no further than a jumpsuit or playsuit paired with strappy sandals. This look strikes a balance between comfort and structure, and works equally well for sightseeing, casual dinners, or exploring new cities.

A structured jumpsuit with a cinched waist creates a flattering silhouette that’s enhanced by strappy sandals, especially those with a block or platform heel. For more casual settings, a soft, cotton playsuit with flat sandals is easy, breezy and stylish.

Style Tip: Choose sandals with embellishments—like studs, beads or colourful straps—to add visual interest to a simple jumpsuit. Layer with a few bangles or a pendant necklace for a boho-inspired look.

Choosing the Right Strappy Sandals

When selecting strappy sandals for summer, consider the following:

• Comfort is key – Look for sandals with cushioned soles and adjustable straps.
  
  
• Heel height matters – Flat and low-heeled sandals are perfect for daywear, while mid or high heels work well for more formal occasions.
  
  
• Material counts – Leather, suede and canvas offer breathability and style. For beach or poolside wear, go for waterproof options.
  
  
• Colours to invest in – Neutrals like tan, black, white and metallics are the most versatile. For a pop of colour, coral, turquoise, or mustard add a fun twist to neutral outfits.

Strappy sandals are a summer essential that blends fashion and function with ease. Whether you're heading to the coast, enjoying a city break, or simply looking for a versatile footwear option for your everyday outings, there's a way to wear strappy sandals that fits the occasion—and your personal style.

From midi dresses to denim shorts, jumpsuits to slip dresses, these five outfit ideas showcase just how adaptable strappy sandals can be. So, dust off your favourite pairs, treat yourself to a new one (or two), and step into summer with style and confidence.