Shoes
Aug 16, 2023

Years Later, And These Flats Are Still the #1 Shoe Choice for Fashion People

by Emma Spedding

Over the past few years, we have seen a shift toward practicality in fashion, and this is seen most acutely with footwear. Fashion brands have for several seasons been bringing us sturdy, responsible shoes—the kind of styles that you'd try to run away from when finding shoes at Clarks in year six. Think T-bar loafers, chunky lace-ups and—what we're talking about today—fisherman sandals.

Our current weather is very much the 'British Summer' with a wet washout one day and humid, soaring temperatures the next. One moment you require air to your toes and then the mercury drops a few notches and you need a little more coverage. That's why the controversial topic (mostly to my own family) of the old socks-and-sandals debate is still going strong and I'm here to challenge and conquer it.

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@FRANCESCASAFFARI

Francesca keeps it easy-breezy with denim city shorts and a vest for warmer days.

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Brittany Bathgate

Brittany wears hers with a classic white cotton midi dress.

The Row and Gabriela Hearst are adored for their discreet take on luxury fashion, and although both tend to shy away from anything too flashy or trend-driven, they have a habit of dictating the silhouettes that we'll be gravitating towards. Both brands created beautiful caged leather sandals in both ivory and black, making humble fisherman sandals the most sought-after sandals back in 2021, and their impact continues to this day. Like Tevas, their appeal is that they are practical walking shoes and will go with almost any summer outfit.

Both designer styles have been yo-yoing in and out of stock for the past few years. However, the silhouette has finally reached the high street in far greater volumes than when the sandal trend first came around. There are fantastic versions at the likes of Zara and M&S, as well as independent brands such as Grenson and Russell & Bromley. Although cheaper options do abound, I would recommend looking out for real leather as they'll last longer. Keep scrolling to shop our edit of the best pairs at every price point.

All of the aforementioned styles are (how would you say...) breathable and well ventilated, which leads the way for hosiery to step forward and connect the seasons with ease and style. Layering can still work, even with open-toes! Scroll down for some great examples of socks 'n' sandal styling.

Monochrome

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Hailey Bieber nails the slick city look with white and off-white pairings, all punctuated with black accessories and gold hardware.

Colder Climates

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As much as it pains me to discuss tights at this time of year, this is the UK after all so those days may be closer than we like to admit. I love this charcoal grey with mid-denier legs!

Trench Business

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Hailey's look is perfect for warm days and cooler nights with rolled-top socks and her go-to black fishermans.

Prep Style

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Ahead of the fisherman sandal shopping below, these Prada get the school playground upgrade with smart pulled up socks.

Cosy Knits

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I love the rolled down socks and loose-fitting knits of this look. Knitwear heaven!

See How Celebs and Street Style Stars Wear Their Fisherman Sandals:

Shop the Best Fisherman Sandals:

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