Good news—summer’s hottest buy is something you probably already own: a dress. That’s it. If you’ve got one (or in my case, many) hanging in your wardrobe, you’re starting the season off on stylish footing.
And speaking of footing, perhaps you’re wondering what shoes to wear with said dress? The answer will similarly be music to your ears, because I bet you have at least a couple of pairs of sandals in your collection, too. Yes, this formula is just as popular today as it has been for the past few summers, and the ones before that. We love a look with longevity. A dress and sandals pairing will work for every sun-soaked event in your diary, be it a low-key park date or an al fresco wedding. Because though this combination sounds simple, it actually comes in myriad forms.
Whether you’re looking for a sandal to complement a voluminous mini dress or a sleek fitted midi, you’ve come to the right place. It’s mid-June and fashion people are in full-on summer mode, which means Instagram is brimming with chic dress-and-sandal outfits to inspire you. We’ve whittled it down to the very best—check them out below.
Style Notes: Unless you’re prone to spilling, a white dress is worth investing in for the summer months. Black strappy sandals will bring a cool contrast to the ensemble.
Broderie anglaise always gets a yes from me.
Dear Frances has so many elegant sandals to choose from this season.
Style Notes: For particularly balmy days, there’s no better option than a breezy bohemian-style dress. Bonus points for embroidery. Keep with the casual vibe by adding some slide-on sandals.
Just one of the many Alémais dresses on my summer wish list.
These are so popular Zara brings them out every year.
Style Notes: I’m not much of a print girl, but for whatever reason I’m always drawn toward polka dots in the warmer months. They feel so timeless, but chunky flip-flops will give this pretty dress option a 2023 flourish.
That bow detail is everything.
Grab these before they sell out.
Style Notes: Maxi dresses are usually quite impactful on their own, so it’s best to keep the footwear simple. A pair of Birkenstocks is just what you need to dress down your floor-sweeping frocks.
I’d also style this with tan accessories.
Your feet will thank you for picking up these comfy sliders.
Style Notes: For weddings and fancy date nights, a black satin dress is a classy option. Finish off the look in a comfortable fashion with flat sandals featuring an ankle tie.
I want this dress in every colour.
It seems like every influencer owns a pair of Ancient Greek sandals.
Style Notes: If you feel a little self-conscious bearing your legs in a minidress (especially if you’re used to midis), chunky platform sandals will steal the attention—and no doubt earn you compliments.
Save this one for the next heatwave.
These look so much more expensive than they are.
Style Notes: I’d wear a vintage slip every day if I could. I love how Liv has styled hers for summer with a pair of Castañer espadrilles.
You could also layer this over a tee for a more relaxed look.
These will go with everything from wide-leg jeans to floaty floral dresses.
Style Notes: Arizona Love’s signature Trekky sandals make every dress infinitely cooler, even a simple black number.
The perfect throw-on dress for summer.
I’ve added this leopard-print iteration to my basket, but there are lots to choose from.
Style Notes: This is a pairing that seems to be gaining traction on Instagram. Influencers are fond of juxtaposing their voluminous tiered dresses with barely-there sandals.
Halternecks are very on-trend this season.
So simple and so chic.
Style Notes: This combination is ideal for a wedding, don’t you think? A beautiful shirred dress you can wear after the event, plus some low-heeled sandals you feel fabulous (and comfortable) in.
This dress comes in more than ten stunning shades.
