Our current choice of footwear might consist of slippers or a different pair of slippers, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start planning ahead for those days when we’ll be able to leave the house in a pair of brand-new sandals, sneakers or flats. So, we tracked down the 19 best minimalist shoes for spring and summer. No excessive straps, no beaded or crystal embellishments and absolutely zero over-the-top prints. Just simple, sleek, fuss-free shoes you can purchase right this second. On the bright side, you now have plenty of time to break in your new kicks before it’s time to hit the town.
The Best Minimalist Shoes to Buy This Spring & Summer
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Published Apr 1, 2020
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LMS
1. Lms The Lara Heels
These pastel pink mules will look just as cute with your favorite pair of blue jeans as they will with a floral frock for that wedding in July.
Buy it ($180)
2. Definery Loop Slides
One oversize buckle is definitely a minimalist-approved embellishment, thank you very much.
3. Naturalizer Samantha 2 Flats
You can never go wrong with a pair of classic pointy-toe flats, and this pair from Naturalizer is one of the comfiest we’ve ever worn.
4. Vince Camuto Gigietta Booties
Summer boots? Yes, that’s a thing, and these sleek western-inspired booties are the perfect mate to your poplin midis and white cropped jeans.
5. Charles David Clay Sling-back Heels
Just because you like things to be simple doesn’t mean you should eschew all extra details. For instance, this marble heel is muted enough to feel like a neutral.
6. Tory Burch Patos Sandals
Meet the grown-up version of the classic flip-flop. P.S. The polished gold isn’t quite as flashy as it looks, we promise.
7. Vince Clark Loafers
Not into the open-toe look? Opt for unfussy loafers in spring-ready colors, like sky blue, lavender or even creamsicle.
8. Who What Wear Zander Sandals
The square-toe trend isn’t going anywhere, so why not embrace the shape with these strappy yellow sandals?
9. Thousand Fell Slip-ons
These sneakers don’t just look good, they do good. Each pair is designed to be easily recycled, repurposed or biodegraded. All you have to do is ship your old shoes back to Thousand Fell and they’ll do the rest. (Psst: They also come in an all-white version for the true minimalist.)
10. Louise Et Cie Brileigh Loafer Mules
Swap your usual black flats for these black-and-white mules. They’re infinitely chicer and, honestly, way easier to walk in.
11. Eileen Fisher Tea Sandals
Looking for a subtle hint of color that doesn’t scream “It’s spring!!!” every time you take a step? Say hello to your new favorite camel heels.
12. Jaggar Sprung Double-strap Flats
Two straps, no heel, can’t lose.
13. Dr. Scholl’s Original Collection Sandals
Whether you prefer a pop of cherry red or a neutral beige or black, these retro sandals from Dr. Scholl’s are a timeless spring-to-summer style.
14. Sarto By Franco Sarto Rache Sandals
The cushioned footbed and crisscross straps make make these heeled sandals some of the comfiest you’ll ever own.
15. Jeffery Campbell Copine Sandals
Add a little ’60s-inspired fun to your summer wardrobe. Betty Draper would definitely approve.
OluKai
16. Olukai Nōhie ‘olu Sandals
The rose-gold hue gives these simple sandals a fancy feel (you can totally wear them to that upcoming wedding), plus the cushiony footbed makes them incredibly comfortable (you can totally wear them to that upcoming wedding and feel free to dance the night away).
Buy it ($115)
17. Mansur Gavriel Tie Sandals
A simple bow and a few leather straps are all you need in an everyday summer sandal.
18. Sperry Saybrook Sling-back Mules
Halfway between a classic loafer and a springy sling-back, these rose-colored kicks stole our heart at first glance. Wear them with a trendy Bermuda suit during the week and wide-leg cropped jeans on the weekend.
19. Paul Green Cici Slide Sandals
A little contrast stitching is a quiet way to add detail, especially when it’s part of a classic pair of cross-front mules.
