The best sandals for summer 2021

Manu Atelier

The contemporary bag brand started in 2014 by two Turkish sisters has finally branched out into footwear. And the results are well worth the wait.

We're bookmarking the lace-up ankle boots for autumn, but it's the square toe strappy sandals that are the current object of our affection.

Cult Gaia

Cult by name, cult by nature. The brand that bought you the influencer-approved 'Ark' style bag has just as much to offer when it comes to footwear.

Sculptural heels, woven leather and a just-right colour palette - Cult Gaia ticks all the right boxes, with plenty of styles coming in under £300.

By Far

One of the hottest brands of 2018, By Far gained a legion of dedicated fans with its Nineties-inspired stappy sandals.

While some of the chunkier styles (and their amazing lace-up boots) will blow the budget, plenty of kitten heel mules and sandals can be yours for less than £300.

Staud

Launched in 2015 by Sarah Staudinger, the former fashion director of Reformation, it's no wonder that Staud has taken the fashion world by storm with its directional shoes and bags.

Skinny leather sandals and toe post croc-effect mules balance on curved kitten heels. Minimalists will fall for mule wedges and cushioned leather flip flops.

Birkenstock

Arizona, Tulum, Boston, Madrid... Birkenstock's style names go on our must-visit list as well as in to our shopping basket.

If they're good enough for Frances McDormand at the Oscars (canary yellow suede custom-made for Valentino) they're good enough for us.

And now vegan versions mean that everyone can experience the delights of a sturdy sandal this summer.

Ancient Greek Sandals

AGS started as a brand that made one thing - chic leather sandals - and made it well, using premium chemical-free, naturally-tanned leather.

The brand has gradually expanded to include jelly sandals and soft soles, bright colours and embellishments such as shells and beads. But it retains its commitment to quality - built to last summer after summer.

Arket

Arket has gone big on cool-girl strappy sandals in a range of colours for its own label offering this season, and we're spoilt for choice.

Further adding to the dilemma is a tightly-edited selection from brands such as RIA, Gurkee's, Teva and Birkenstock.

Office

Bringing brands like Salt Water, Vagabond and Nomadic State of Mind to a high street near you - not to mention the latest 'it' trainers - Office is a dream destination for shoe-lovers.

But don't overlook the brand's own label offering which is on trend, affordable and often looks more expensive than it is.

Yuul Yie

If you're looking for something on trend, but not everywhere Yuul Yie is a name to remember. The South Korean brand uses European leather and hardware designed in-house to create fashion forward shoes with a twist.

Loq

Ankle-tie sandals, minimal mules, patent leather wedges: whatever the style Loq brings a relaxed Californian vibe with an India-inspired colour palette to its modern, covetable creations.

Solange is apparently a fan, and so are we.

& Other Stories

& Other Stories is great at interpreting the big trends then adding the occasional twist. And you won't see countless others in your latest buy, an all too common occurence when you're buying from the high street.

This summer, strappy sandals abound, with chunky flatforms, slim, block and wedge heels from which to choose.

Carel Paris

Perhaps best known for its Mary Janes, this storied Parisian brand has plenty more to offer. Expect well-made classic shoes, with nods to current trends.

The key shades of the season are gunmetal, scarlet, navy and white with block heel mules, strappy sandals and slingbacks in each.

Kurt Geiger

Wedges and block heels abound at Kurt Geiger with an emphasis on classic neutral shades. But that's not to say that things don't get a little fierce at times.

Leopard print, studding, embroidery and prints are all used to create statement pieces that will see you through summer.

Charles & Keith

A Singaporean brand that's huge in Asia and fast making in-roads here, Charles & Keith is a go-to for statement pieces without a huge price tag.

Teva

If you're used to wearing dad sneakers then Teva is the summer footwear choice for you.

The trend for sporty, velcro strap sandals is huge this year (even Prada and Gucci are getting in on the act), but a pair by Teva come with a more achievable price tag and are far more functional, designed as they are for hiking and water sports.

Russell & Bromley

One of the more luxurious brands to be found on the British high street, there's still plenty to be found for well under £300.

Expect styles designed with comfort and longevity in mind as well as plenty of statement pieces.

Modern Rarity

Let's be honest, high fashion doesn't spring to mind when you think of John Lewis & Partners. But quality and competitive pricing probably does.

Its brand Modern Rarity has a contemporary aesthetic without teetering into fashion victim territory, and the sandal selection is perfect for the office or a wedding.

Hunter

The original boot brand now offers way more than just wellies. Choose from colour pop logoed pool slides and flip flops, or sturdy strap sandals that are perfect for combing the beach, and wearing in the city too.

Whistles

Whether you need a chunky leather mule for work, a strappy sandal for a wedding or something more bohemian for holiday, Whistles has all bases covered.

The aesthetic is pleasingly solid and streamlined, nothing fussy, dainty or delicate to see here.

Aeyde

Berlin-based brand Aeyde is best known for its boots, but it offers plenty to appeal in the summer months too. Minimal, simplified styles are made in Italy with high end materials, belying the accessible price.

Confidently restrained of line yet bold of colour, we particularly love these strappy sandals with their of-the-moment square toe.

Marks & Spencer

With wide fits, comfort technology and more than a passing nod to the latest trends, you might be surprised how many fashion editors have a pair of trusty M&S sandals in their wardrobe.

Dune

Good quality that lasts season after season. Dune had a huge hit last summer with its Hermes-esque leather 'Loupe' slides, and they're back again in a choice of nine colours and materials.

Massimo Dutti

Massimo Dutti might not be as catwalk trend-obsessed as its stable mate Zara (both are owned by Inditex) but that makes it all the more appealing.

Neutral tones, natural materials and a relaxed sensibility characterize Massimo Dutti collections, and the shoes follow suit. A must for fans of Magaret Howell and #oldCeline.

Kate Spade

Feminine and preppy with an Upper East Side twist, contemporary label Kate Spade's footwear designs make use of the brand's signature spades and hearts to create a point of difference.