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Once you’ve stocked up on summer dresses, tank tops and bathing suits, it’s time to round out your warm-weather wardrobe with my favorite category of all: shoes.
While designers spent the last few seasons leaning heavy into comfort with Birkenstock-style flats, fuzzy slippers and chunky sneakers, some of the best shoe trends for summer 2022 offer something new.
Ankle-breaking platforms, ultra-feminine tie-up heels and timeless, wear-anywhere mules are at the top of the list. To keep from deviating from comfort altogether, I like to pair fancier styles with ribbed, flared pants or otherwise pliable bottoms that won’t restrict movement the way a pair of tight jeans or a short skirt might.
But if you’re still craving comfort (or you plan to walk more than a few hundred steps at any given time), there’s some good news: Flatforms, pool slides and orthopedic-adjacent clogs aren’t far behind. Opt to dress them up with a high-hem dress or a matching set, or dive headfirst into the athleisure look with mesh dolphin shorts or cuffed joggers and a ribbed tank.
Ahead, find the summer 2022 shoe trends I can’t wait to try out ASAP, spanning on-trend styles and perennial favorites.
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As someone who’s 5 feet, 6 inches tall, I’ve been waiting for this day: The ‘70s-era style is back — and designers like Versace, Acne, Nodaleto and Saint Laurent lead the pack for Spring/Summer 2022. The good news is that you can get in on the trend without spending four figures, with styles from contemporary brands like Paris Texas, Cult Gaia and Simon Miller.
Paris Texas Malena 130-Millimeter Platform Sandals, $515
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The less daring cousin of the platform, the flatform offers all the height but without the heel. Designers like Hermès, Khaite and MaxMara first highlighted the trend, which has since trickled down.
Charles + Keith Morgan Platform Slide Sandals, $49
The Frankie Shop x Bettina Vermillon Onda Strap Sandal, $445
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Yep — the same ones you wore to softball practice are back. Pair yours with a pair of pants that hit just at the floor.
Old Navy Sugarcane-Blend Double-Strap Slide Sandals, $7.99 (Orig. $19.99)
Tory Burch Bubble Jelly Slides, $178
Los Angeles Apparel Unisex Slides, $24
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If you also went two-plus years without wearing anything with so much as a 1-inch heel, rejoice with me: Sexy, strappy heels are making a resurgence, and there are plenty of options to choose from.
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If you were paying attention, you’d know clogs were making an inevitable comeback — but even if the trend isn’t for you, you can still dip your toes in the water with a round-toe shoe.
COS Chunky Leather Mule, $225
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Sure, this one’s less of a trend and more of an excuse to buy yet another pair of mules — but with so many timeless, wear-anywhere options, why resist? Wear yours for seasons to come with everything from midi skirts to wide-leg jeans.
REIKE NEN Off-White 5 Strings Pointed Sandals, $320
If you enjoyed this story, check out the ’90s and ’00s trends making a comeback this year!
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