As soon as the temps surpass, say, 25°C degrees, there’s really only one corner of my wardrobe 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.
Even though, yes, the weather isn’t exactly ~ vibing ~ RN, the recent heatwave as reminded us to get our summer wardrobe in check ready for the sunny (hopefully) season ahead. Luckily, for you, that’s where we come in! These are the shoe trends that will make any summer dress look seriously good.
7 best shoe trends to wear with summer dresses 2026
Open-Toed Kitten Heels
An open-toe kitten heel is my tried-and-true shoe, period. But there’s just something about the style paired with a summery dress that hits different.
It feels effortless, polished and so on-trend – whether you opt for H&M’s ‘go-with-everything’ thong sandals or Topshop’s Axel heels, which feel a little more elevated thanks to their suede finish. For a preppier feel, I also love the look of strappy kitten heels with capri trousers: a fit that works just as well in the office as it does for after-work drinks. Everyone from Hailey Bieber to Kendall Jenner has been spotted in the look.
Topshop Axel Toe Thong
H&M Heeled leather sandals
Mango Strappy heeled sandals
Mary Jane Trainers
If you know, you know: all the cool fashion people are wearing Mary Jane trainers RN. A hybrid between a traditional Mary Jane pump and a trainer, these kicks are the ideal everyday shoe – combining substance with style in equal measure.
It’s fair to say this athletic-inspired silhouette is having a major streetwear moment, with celebs like Zendaya and Jennifer Lawrence already donning the trend. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to style thanks to their sleek, sporty finish – dress them up with a maxi dress or down with denim.
Puma Speedcat Suede Ballet Shoes
Adidas Barreda Mary Jane
Vivaia Hybrid Mesh Mary Janes
Ballet Flats
If you’re re-thinking your relationship with heels (same) here’s your sign to invest in a really great pair of flats. There’s quite literally something for every personal style and dress code in your wardrobe – whether you’re a ballet-core girly to your core or have fully embraced the square-toe jelly design. Steve Madden’s flats are the perfect beach-to-bar slip-ons, while M&S’ satin pumps are a true homage to the classic ballerina shoe.
Reformation Buffy Ruched Ballet Flat
M&S Satin Ballet Pumps
Cowboy Boots
If 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.
And while Glastonbury is off the cards this year (boo), Reading/Leeds, All Points East and Creamfields are here to fill the void – so a pair of boho-style western boots will add the right amount of festival edge while still being a staple in your wardrobe for seasons to come.
Nobody's Child Suede Western Boots
Bronx Chel-sey Western Boots
Schuh Darlene Western Knee High
Flip-Flops
If 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.
Colourful styles are also taking over this summer’s casual aesthetic. A vivid pop of colour is the easiest way to elevate a simple jeans and white tee outfit or, conversely, they can dress down an outfit to make it feel more casual and off duty. Don’t believe me? Take your styling cues from Jennifer Lawrence who recently wore brightly-coloured red pair, teamed with a floral maxi dress and cap.
Havaianas Women Slim Square Sandal
Free People Englewood Flip Flops
FitFlop IQUSHION Flip-Flops
Trainers
Trainers 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.
As for which trainer to go for: not one style reigns supreme in 2026. Animal print is still a frontrunner this season, while the Vivaia Sneakerinas are a softer alternative, sitting somewhere between a ballet pump and a trainer – a favourite of Bella Hadid’s.
Schuh Mindy Trainer
Adidas Samba OG Shoe
Vivaia Jogger Sneakerina
Wedge Sandals
In case you missed the memo: Wedges are officially back – but that doesn’t mean it’s time to resurrect your 2013 platforms. Instead, pair your fave summer dress with styles that feel modern and fresh, like sculptural designs or sleek, thong silhouettes.
To style, pair with literally anything. Whether teamed with a pair of cuffed jeans to show off the shoe, or peeping out the bottom of a maxi dress, a wedge sandal instantly makes your outfit appear more expensive – plus the thicker heel is comfortable for all-day wear.
Reformation Amelia Thong Wedge Sandal
Free People Gabriela Thong Wedges
Ancient Greek Etheria Woven Raffia Wedge
Megan 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.
