Johannesburg - Make the most of your summer sandals before you have to cover up again. Comfort is key, but that doesn't mean you need to stint on glamour.
Flats are much more than slipslops these days, with straps, T-bar designs, caged/gladiator-styles and bling, all to pretty your feet while you keep walking.
Designers call the overall summer trend for sandals “maximalism”, embracing bright applique florals, big embellishments, tassels as well as the 1970s fringing trend adorning sandal uppers.
Tania Deyzel, shoe buyer for Miladys, says maximalism was spotted in shows such as Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana and Prada.
“Louis Vuitton and Alexander Wang also showed us how chain detail isn't necessarily grungy, while Michael Kors and Gucci played with buckle detail. It's all about standing out from the crowd. Don't be scared to try something new. Be bold.”
Here are the top trends:
1. Slides
The backless sandal is a perennial because it's just so comfortable. The healthiest slide has to be the Birkenstock, in which celebrities like the Olsen twins have been seen, though you need a bit extra to spend on a pair of those.
2. T-strap
These sandals are fabulously chic, as they elongate your foot while securing your foot in an extra strap, making walking in heels a lot easier. The silhouette adds a cool elegance to any outfit, even if the sandal is flat. With blingy or metallic embellishments, a T-strap makes a statement, day or night.
3. Metallics
Sandals in gold, silver or copper tones are still popular, which you can dress up or down. They will add glamour to even a pair of shorts. Metallic is especially arresting in caged sandals or gladiators.
4. Gladiators
Find your inner warrior with gladiator-inspired sandals - still a trend. They can vary from ankle gladiators to knee-high knockouts, and come in a vast range of style and colours, in flats or heels. Great for any occasion.
5. Colour block
Sandals in primary hues will brighten outfits in neutrals. Don bold strokes of diva colour on your feet paired with a dress in a solid colour, and you're immediately up to fashion speed.
6. Rubber sole platforms
You might have noticed soles have gotten thicker, a trend harking back to the 1970s - platforms, often in rubber, clogs and wedges.
7. Lace-ups
Lace-ups are a strong trend for summer, from flats to heels. Worn with your favourite denim or little black dress, it's a look that makes a statement.
8. Tassel uppers
Tassels or fringes on sandal uppers or around the ankle lend a chic, bohemian feel, and they're right on trend. Team them with faded blue skinny jeans and loose-fit white blouse, or to add interest to a plain summer outfit.
Helen Grange, The Star
Pictures: Supplied