‘Orthopaedic shoe’ ranks pretty high on the list of least sexy sartorial terms. But actually, like all things fashion, they can be an effortlessly chic, aesthetic choice of footwear when styled in the right way. With comfort remaining a mainstay of rising fashion trends over the last few years, it's no surprise that the lovingly dubbed ‘grandma sandal’ is summer's defining shoe.
A nostalgic nod to our Nana's cosy shoes lined up at the doorway, the grandma sandal is a catch-all term for open-toe footwear that has an elegant yet comfy silhouette. Think soft leather, cross-straps, sturdy soles, big buckles and a vintage-inspired look associated with styles from the 1950s.
This spike in popularity for the practical shoe choice of our grandmothers coincides with our love for ugly shoes in general. Take the grandad of all grandad sandals: Birkenstock. Once mocked, you'll now be hard-pressed to find a fashion girlie who doesn't turn to a double-strapped Arizona or Boston clog when the sun hits. Similarly, cue desires for blinged-out Crocs and Vibram's FiveFingers shoes, bewildering some but undeniably popular amongst the street-style set.
But the grandma sandal is more understated than these ugly shoe trends. It possesses an undone look that's bohemian and evocative of European summers. No wonder the likes of Jeanne Damas and Lily Rose Depp were early adopters. Both have been spotted on multiple occasions sporting the ergonomic wedges from Worishofer. Their sensible, adjustable buckles and cork soles prioritise comfort, whilst the shape remains delicate compared to other orthopaedic styles.
Whilst writing this, I remembered my friend's cute pair of retro-look mule sandals in red and black leather, similar to Worishofer. I texted her to ask where they're from, only for her to reply, “They are literally from my Grandma!” Point proven.
Summer shoe trends can feel like a constant challenge. Of course, a stiletto strappy sandal will look gorgeous on the ‘gram, worn for a quick opportune photoshoot moment. Flip-flops will offer instant slip-on ease, but a reliable pair of grandma sandals will actually serve you all day long. Plus, their casual cool is undeniable. For a hot summer day in the city, or perusing market towns on holiday, let's listen to our grandmothers, as always, and embrace their nonchalant ease with not a blister plaster in sight.
Shop our round-up of the coolest, comfiest grandma sandals on the high street:
Next Camel Forever Comfort® Open Toe Sandals
Camper Dana Black Leather Sandals Womens
Anonymous Copenhagen Sophie 20
Timberland Black Malibu Waves Basic Backstrap Sandal
Ancient Greek Sandals Natali sabot cotto clog sandals
Ancient Greek Sandals Natali sabot cotto clog sandals
Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items.
