The Hot List: 7 Designer Sandals Absolutely Ruling 2021

designer-sandals-293381-1621878365017-main

(Image credit: @tamumcpherson)

Several months ago, we reported on the sandal trends that were poised to become big this year, noting which styles had the strongest runway presence. But now that we've officially hit that point in the season where our sandals have eclipsed all our other shoes, it's time to discuss the specific styles that are dominating. As far as designer sandals go, the fashion crowd has definitely been playing favorites. Don't get me wrong. There are plenty of stunning styles in the market right now, from bright, saturated shades to retro platform soles and fashion-girl flip-flops, but I've surveyed what the It crowd is actually wearing and have come to the conclusion that there are seven designer sandals, in particular, that are absolutely ruling for spring and summer 2021.

As you work on building out your summer wardrobe ahead of vacations and pool days, I suggest you take note of these trending sandals now because you're only going to see more of them as the season wears on. Ahead, take a look at how fashion girls are styling them and shop each pair.

Versace Plissé-Effect Mules

designer-sandals-293381-1621873004491-image

(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

There are mules, and then there are these Versace mules. Ever since we spotted them on the spring runway, we were smitten. The leather plissé texture, knotted detail, and array of bright punchy hues really take them to the next level.

Simon Miller Platform Flip-Flops

designer-sandals-293381-1621873005359-image

(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

Platform thongs are the shoe trend on every fashion girl's lips this summer because, well, the Y2K sandals are "it." Of all the options out there, Simon Miller's version is really taking center stage. The exaggerated platform sole and lime-green hue aren't easily forgotten.

BY FAR Bibi Sandals

designer-sandals-293381-1621874216612-image

(Image credit: @mariaalia)

Another day, another pair of BY FAR sandals we simply can't get off our minds. The brand is at it again this season with a fresh pair of '90s-inspired heels—this time with a strappy pair that's finished with a charming leather bow detail and walkable low heels.

The Row Ginza Sandals

designer-sandals-293381-1621873005775-image

(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Look familiar? The Row's Ginza sandals were a fan favorite last summer as well, but thanks to the aforementioned platform-thong movement, they're having just as much (if not more) of a moment this year.

Amina Muaddi Lace-Up Sandals

designer-sandals-293381-1621877418635-image

(Image credit: @tamumcpherson)

"Revenge heels," ever heard of 'em? If ever there were a time for statement-making strappy sandals, this is it, and Amina Muaddi's lace-up pair is everything you could want. 

Adidas Yeezy Slides

designer-sandals-293381-1621874000408-image

(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

Just because we're going out again doesn't mean we're completely ditching our comfiest shoes. Cushy slides like these Yeezys are really resonating among the fashion crowd.

Gia Borghini x Pernille Teisbaek Two-Strap Sandals

designer-sandals-293381-1621877877821-image

(Image credit: @pernilleteisbaek)

One micro-trend we've noted is padded sandals, and it's mostly thanks to this chic collab between shoe brand Gia Couture and perennial It girl Pernille Teisbaek, who created these simple but fresh mules.

Next up: I Spot Trends for a Living—Here's Every Single One I'm Buying for Summer

Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.