In case you missed the memo, sunshine is on the way and we're already thinking about ways to beat the heat. Especially when it comes to our wardrobes. Yep, we can safely say we'll be wearing summer dresses and sandals all season long.
Transitioning effortlessly from your nine-to-five to picnics in the park, this easy breezy combo doubles as a polished workwear outfit and a chic AF off-duty ensemble, too. It's a failsafe – and that's why we'll be turning to it repeatedly.
To keep it feeling fresh, we've scoured the spring summer 2025 runways and the street style set to bring you this season's biggest sandal trends and the dresses you should be wearing them with. Keep scrolling for outfit inspo and the best ways to wear a dress and sandals, right now.
Simple, strappy dress + heeled flip flops
Heeled flip flops have been confirmed as the shoe of the summer. Lean into the minimalist ‘90s aesthetic and pair with a simple, spaghetti-strap block coloured dress. Love 'em or loathe 'em, ugly shoes are in, so get on board.
Denim dress + embellished sandals
From charms threaded through laces to statement stones affixed to the top of strappy styles, embellished sandals are something we're seeing more and more of. We're certainly not complaining about it – oozing luxe vibes, they're a great way to dress up a denim dress.
Sparkly dress + rope sandals
Miu Miu bears sole responsibility for sparking the trend for rope sandals after the Italian fashion house sent models strutting down its spring summer 2024 runway in footwear fashioned from bungee-esque cords. The trend has taken over the high street this season, with remarkably similar designs for a fraction of the price! Juxtapose the sporty feel with a shimmery, sequin dress.
Linen dress + raffia sandals
Embrace the natural textures head-to-toe by wearing your raffia sandals with a linen, floaty cotton or crochet dress. A woven bag will provide the perfect finishing touch.
Friends Like These Cream Raffia Double Buckle Comfort Footbed Sandals
Knit dress + toe ring sandals
Hermès and The Row might have both sent toe-ring sandals down the SS25 runways , but it's Zara's take on the trend that's gone viral. Other high street brands have followed suit, making it easier than ever to get in on the trend without breaking the bank. Wear yours with a fuss-free knit maxi.
Boho fringe dress + ankle tie sandals
Mirror the wrap-around tie details of this style of sandal with a dress that features fringe detailing, or lean into the boho style with a floaty, flared skirt design.
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Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
