Summer has officially arrived and that means it’s time to break out the tank tops, shorts and sandals. This season, some major trends in footwear have been seen on almost every celebrity and street style maven across the globe. Not one to leave anyone behind, I have created a simple guide to mastering these trends and where to shop them.
Trend #1: Gladiator Sandals
It looks like this season we will all be traveling back to ancient times because the number one it-shoe of the moment is the gladiator sandal. Known as a celebrity favorite, they have been seen on fashionistas like Jessica Alba and Alessandra Ambrosio. The great thing about this trend is that there are so many different kinds of gladiators to choose from depending on your personal style. From simple flats that tie up to the ankle to caged heels that go all the way up to the knee, there is something for everyone. Because these shoes make a statement all by themselves, the key to putting this look together is to keep the rest of your outfit simple by pairing them with a light summer dress or cut off shorts and a simple tee. I personally love the look that Kourtney Kardashian put together by pairing her gladiators with a loose fitting bohemian dress and simple accessories. If you are going to rock the knee-high gladiators, this look is perfection!
Shop Gladiators: Chloe ($1,450, Bergdorf Goodman), Valentino ($975, Saks), Joie ($262, Saks),Topshop ($45, Nordstrom)
Trend 2: Espadrilles
This shoe is made for the girl who likes to keep things casual and nothing says laid-back style like an espadrille. One of my favorite celebrities rocking this trend is Ashley Tisdale who paired her Chanel espadrilles with cut off jean shorts and an oversized button up shirt. The mix of high and low here makes for the perfect casual weekend outfit. If you want to dress up your espadrilles, I recommend buying ones that have a little bit of a platform or that tie up around the ankle. These are perfect for a summer skirt or dress.
Shop Espadrilles: Valentino ($895, Nordstrom), Tory Burch ($135, Nordstrom), Soludos ($35, Nordstrom)
Trend 3: Lace up flats
Calling all girls who hate wearing heels—the lace up flat trend is for you! This feminine look has recently been seen on it-girls like Alexa Chung and Olivia Palermo. These shoes are unique because they are formal enough for the office, but still have a little bit of an edge and sexy simplicity to them to take you to after work drinks. My favorite way to style these shoes is to pair them with a skirt or a dress for a more sophisticated look. This is also the best way to show off the lace-up detailing.
Shop Lace up flats: Aquazzurra ($695, Barneys), Stuart Weitzman ($385, Stuart Weitzman), Jeffrey Campbell ($134, Nordstrom)
Trend 4: Slip on Sneakers
Like it or not, the normcore fashion trend continues and the shoes that are leading the charge are the slip on sneaker. This shoe is no longer just reserved for skaters and hipsters. Major fashionistas are rocking them and luxury brands like Chanel and Jimmy Choo have taken notice. One of my favorite ways to style this trend is to pair your sneakers with something a little bit unexpected like a skirt or a dress. This is the perfect combination for that effortless cool look that celebs like Jessica Alba and Rihanna are known for.
Shop Slip on Sneakers: Joie ($190, Nordstrom), Vince ($195, Nordstrom), Miu Miu ($495, Saks)