Best things to consider when buying sandals

One of the best parts about warmer weather is being able to put away your closed-toed shoes and boots and let your feet breathe in cute and stylish sandals. Like most other styles of shoes, though, choosing the right pair of sandals depends on a number of factors. Take a look at these questions to consider when choosing the best new sandals:

1. What do you need them for?
Are they for spending time at the beach? Are they an office wardrobe replacement for your winter ankle boots? Like flats or heels, sandals can be worn on a variety of different occasions and paired with numerous outfits, so when looking for sandals it’s first important to note what you need them for. That way, when you move onto the next questions, you’ll be able to narrow your selections quickly and effectively.

2. How high are the heels?
Now that you know what you need them for, consider the heel height. Higher heels can often mean the sandals are a little more formal, great for wearing to a more casual office or out on warm spring and summer evenings. On the other hand, flat sandals are a perfect shoe for your more casual warm weather needs, like running errands, going shopping and anything else you have going on. Whereas wedge and stacked heels are perfect for casual and daytime events, if you’re looking for sandals to wear to a formal function, try a pair with thinner heels.

3. Do they have closed toes?
Closed-toe sandals are a combination of flats and sandals. The closed toe part can make the shoe look more work-appropriate, while the open sides are perfect for the season. Pair closed-toe sandals with a pencil skirt or show them off with cropped slim pants and a blazer at the office. These shoes can also transition easily to casual environments like after-work drinks with co-workers or a Saturday barbecue with friends.

4. Are they comfortable?
If you’re planning on wearing these sandals for more than just an hour or two, it’s important that they’re supportive and secure to keep your feet comfortable all day. Look for styles with arch support, adjustable straps that keep your feet completely secure, and a big enough sole that your toes or heels aren’t hanging off the end. Rather than flip-flop or slip-on styles, opt for a pair with a slingback or ankle strap that will keep the shoes on your feet without any effort.

5. Do you love them?
Shoes are a great way to have fun with your style, but sandals can be especially exciting. After all, there are tons of styles to choose from! Look for sandals with fun details and colors, interesting straps, and anything else that you will love wearing while you’re out and about. Don’t be afraid to opt for interesting embellishments, like medallions and cool patterns. And if you’re looking to keep up with spring’s biggest trends, go for a pair of strappy gladiator sandals you can pair with the fun prints, patterns and colors of the season.

So get ready to get that pedicure you’ve been longing for and slip into warm weather with:

The hottest sandals of the season.

Leather

Leather is long-lasting and always in style, so if you’re looking for a sandal investment, choose leather styles. Not only do you get longevity, but they’re also comfortable, molding to your feet the more you wear them.

Flatbed

While this style shoe is the epitome of comfort, you’re going have to strategize ways to spice your flatbed sandals up a bit. It’s not how you wear them, it’s what you wear them with.

They’re the perfect complement to slouchy, boyfriend jeans paired with a loose tank top. For a more casual look, wear them with joggers or sporty sweatpants. Elongate your legs with jean shorts, or add femininity with a sweet sundress.

Keep your eyes peeled for a thick sole made of cork or foam to ensure sturdiness and comfort. You’ll find options with buckles, horizontal straps, wrap-around straps, crossover straps – these keep your feet in place and allow your foot to properly mold to the sole for ultimate comfort.

Strappy

Speaking of straps, Strappy sandals can be that pizzazz in your summer ensemble and the accent that highlights your legs. The criss-crosses create movement, making passersby take a second glance. Pair them with bottoms that will show them off, like ankle slacks or knee-length dresses.

Gladiator

If you’re looking to keep up with the biggest trends, go for a pair of gladiator sandals you can pair with the fun prints, patterns and colors of the season.

Not only does the support of the shoe provide you with comfort, but it adds a versatile look that can be either dressed up or down. For a casual look, cuff your favorite pair of jeans and slip on those gladiators that hit right at your ankles. Or wear your knee-high gladiators with a flowy sundress. For a dramatic nighttime look, pair them with dressier shorts and a fitted blouse to make for the perfect date night outfit.

Keep jewelry simple with this look, too – let your gladiators do the talking.

Fashion Flip-Flop

This is your flashy shoe – the one that will tie your whole outfit together to give you a sunny vibe. A sassy dress sandal with decorative beading or cut-out designs can be worn with jean shorts during the day and a chic romper at night.

If you’re wearing a fashion sandal, you’ll want the ensemble’s main focus to be on the shoes. Go easy on accessories – simple up top, bold on bottom.

Sporty

Start with the essential, old-fashioned flip-flop that’s both comfortable and cool. This style shoe should be neutral, giving you something to fall back on if you have no idea what shoes to wear that day. Wear them to the beach, to the park, while walking your dog or even while wearing athletic clothing.

Block heels

Block give you more stability without sacrificing fashion. These are ideal for women who love wearing an elevated heel but want to stray away from the foot pain that usually comes with sky-high shoes.

Slides

Combine the style and lift of a wedge with the comfort and ease of slip-on sandals, and you’ve got Slides. These on-trend shoes elongate your legs without sacrificing comfort. What’s more, they often sport thick straps in a variety of colors to give your outfit that extra umph.

Slides should be your go-tos, capable of matching just about any type of outfit you wear. Slides with embellished straps will elevate a classy look, while understated sandals are casual and cozy.

Shooties

shooties combine the style chops of booties with the cool, summer-ready design of sandals, adding cutouts in key areas to create a totally unique design. You’ll get the benefit of a trending look and the airflow only sandals can offer, plus full support perfect for a day of walking.

White

White sandals are becoming the chosen color for people looking for something light in summer. Consider a natural white leather pair, and spray them with leather protectant so you don’t have to fuss about staining them! The great thing about this trend is that it works for every style of sandal that you prefer.

So get yourself pedi-ready: you’re going to look great all season in your stylish new sandals!