6 Shoe Trends Fashion People Are Pairing With Summer Dresses This Season

As soon as the temps surpass, say, 70 degrees, there’s really only one corner of my closet that catches my attention: easy, breezy summer dresses. My jeans and tees take a backseat to floaty maxis, effortless midis, and cool satin or cotton minis you can throw on without a second thought.That’s the beauty of summer dressing—you don’t have to overthink it. It doesn’t ask you to try too hard! In fact, it’s the one time of year when deciding what to wear feels less like a decision and more like a reflex. The only real thought you need to put into it? Which pair of shoes will pull it all together.Luckily, for you, that’s where we come in! These are the shoe trends that will make any summer dress look seriously good.Open-Toed Kitten HeelsChristian Vierig//Getty ImagesAn open-toed kitten heel is my tried-and-true shoe, period. But there’s just something about the style paired with a summery dress that just hits different. It feels effortless, polished, and so on-trend—whether you opt for these Pucci-adjacent Steve Madden sandals or the I.N.C. embellished thongs.Steve Madden Kendrix Pink Print SandalsLULLASONG Black Kitten Heels SandalsI.n.c. Alliee Embellished SandalsNow 41% OffFlip-FlopsJeremy Moeller//Getty ImagesIf you’re still convinced flip-flops are a beach-only accessory, it’s time for you to reevaluate. A good thong sandal—whether that’s a rubber Havaianas pair or a more elevated suede version—has a relaxed, lived-in feel that will balance out your fave maxi dress.Havaianas Slim Square SandalTKEES Lily Braid SandalBrizza Arezzo Cookie Cutter Scalloped Flip FlopsSneakersJeremy Moeller//Getty ImagesSneakers might not be the most obvious style choice for a summer dress, but…they should be. Here me out: A clean pair of Adidas or even a classic running shoe can make any ‘fit feel more effortless, cool, and perfectly preppy without trying too hard. Bonus points: You’ll actually be comfortable.Brooks Ghost 18 Neutral Running & Walking Shoeadidas Originals Gazelle Indoor SneakerAlohas Crochet SneakersFlatsValentina Frugiuele//Getty ImagesDon’t sleep on a good pair of flats. There’s quite literally something for every personal style and dress style in your wardrobe—whether you’re a ballet-core girly to your core or have fully embraced the square-toe jelly design.Cushionaire Weston Hand Woven Mary Jane FlatsNow 25% OffSteve Madden Grove Red Jelly FlatsSam Edelman Felicia Ballet FlatCredit: Sam EdelmanCowboy BootsChristian Vierig//Getty ImagesIf you think boots don’t have a place in your summer wardrobe, you are seriously mistaken. Cowboy boots are such a cool-girl pick for a breezy maxi dress or satin-and-lace slip. The contrast just works for that effortlessly chic “I didn’t try, but totally nailed it” energy.Tecovas The Annie BootCredit: TecovasASOS DESIGN Claudette Western BootsNow 15% OffDolce Vita Mirla BootsWedge SandalsRaimonda Kulikauskiene//Getty ImagesIn case you missed the memo: Wedges are officially back—but that doesn’t mean it’s time to resurrect your 2013 corked platforms. Instead, pair your fave summer dress with styles that feel modern and fresh, like sculptural designs or sleek, thong silhouettes.Steve Madden Suede Thong WedgesSam Edelman Daxton Strappy Wedge Heel SandalCredit: Sam EdelmanUrban Outfitters Kassie Polka Dot Wedge Thong SandalsCredit: Urban outfittersMegan Schaltegger is an NYC-based writer. She loves strong coffee, eating her way through the Manhattan food scene, and her dog, Murray. She promises not to talk about herself in third person IRL.