There is a surprisingly heated debate currently raging amongst the Cosmopolitan UK team. Is it acceptable to get your toes out in the office? Naturally, summer's arrival prompted the discussion, when 20-plus degree temperatures had us shunning our boots and trainers in favour of… Well, that’s exactly the issue, in favour of what?
While flip-flops are a warm weather no-brainer, some argue they are best reserved for the beach and pool, with absolutely no place in a professional working environment. Others, however, have no issue freeing their tootsies. Something Chanel's Resort 2027 show seemed to agree with when models paraded down the catwalk freeing not just their phalanges, but the majority of their feet in soleless, ‘barefoot’ sandals.
Is this the start of a naked footwear trend? The jury is still out. Either way, there are plenty of summer shoe trends that cater to the closed-toe demographic, alongside those simply looking for more practical options to navigate the forecasted rain while still catering for foot breathability. These are the closed-toe summer shoe trends to know when you can't or don't want to wear your sandals.
Boat shoes and moccasins
Last summer saw the emergence of the boat shoe trend, spearheaded at Copenhagen Fashion Week. While previously it was chunky lug-sole styles that dominated, the 2026 update favours a more slimline silhouette. Leather designs are admittedly the most practical, with suede moccasins best saved for sunny days with no risk of rain. For extra style points, look for tassel adornments affixed onto laces.
Next Tan Brown Forever Comfort® Leather Charm Boat Shoes
Jelly shoes
Offering a flash of foot without totally freeing those piggies thanks to its semi-transparent fabrication, the jelly shoe has also returned for another summer in the spotlight. But forget the fisherman-esque sandals of your childhood. The likes of Chloé and Tory Burch have given the nostalgic jelly a high-fashion update in the form of peep-toe mules, kitten-heeled designs, and woven ballet flats adept at traversing city streets and sandy beaches alike.
Anything backless
From your go-to Boston clogs to a backless loafer, this summer’s shoe trends are placing a priority on comfort and banishing blisters from the backs of your heels. Amen to that! Styles have commonly been worn with socks, but we say ditch ‘em for summer to truly feel the sun and the breeze! Our only caveat – if you do opt for something backless, it may be worth investing in a foot file or a good cracked heel balm.
Dune London Suede Backless Mule Loafers
Textured ballet Flats
The ballet flat has never really been out of trend, but this season we’re noticing a focus on textured designs. Be they woven leather or mesh uppers, you could even tick off two trends in one by opting for a pony hair animal print finish. Consider your one style rule this: there’s no time for boring basics.
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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!
