I may have mentioned my affinity for shoes before. Unfortunately, it’s hard to find cute shoes that are also ethically made. A lot of shoes today are made using a combination of questionable chemicals (i.e. lots of petroleum) and questionable labor practices (i.e. exploiting workers).
But the good news is that there are companies out there that are doing it better. So with summer in full swing, I’m bringing you your complete summer shoe guide — all from companies that produce their shoes in a more ethical fashion.
P.S. If some of these silhouettes look familiar, that is by design. I’ve included a lot of the same silhouettes from my spring shoe guide because, as I mentioned in that post — while all of these styles are super on trend this season, they’re also super classic and super versatile silhouettes. Read: you can wear them now, you can wear some of them next season, and you can wear them for many seasons even after that.
The Platform/Wooden Heel
With a nod to the 70s, the platform, or wooden heel is making a comeback this summer. The silhouette is fun to wear with a boho maxi dress to get that true 70s vibe, or pair with this season’s’ straight leg denim for a more modern look.
Nisolo Sarita Wooden Wedge Sandal
Swedish Hasbeens Helena Sandal from Kaight Shop
The Espadrille
Nothing quite says summer like an espadrille. Something about that jute rope just signals warmer weather and sipping cocktails by the pool. No, just me? Well regardless, pair with denim shorts or a midi skirt and you’re set for any adventure summer has in store.
Boden Laticia Espadrille Wedge
Beyond Skin Geosilver Mimi Espadrilles
The Slide
You saw this guy in the spring guide, and it’s still going strong. Such an easy style to slip on with any outfit for an effortlessly stylish look.
The Palatines Caeleste Slide Sandal in Black Pebbled-Tan Smooth Leather
Everlane The Form Crossover Sandal
By Far Sahara Flat from Amour Vert
Fashionable Joselyn Double Strap Sandal
Ulla Johnson Babette Noir Suede Slide
Bourgeois Boheme Felicity Pinatex Slide
Proud Mary Two Strap Denim Sandal from Kaight Shop
Proud Mary Fringe Slide Sandal
The Block Heel
Because there are some occasions during the summertime that you do have to dress up. And for those occasions, the block heel is the perfect option. It can take you from work, to a picnic in the park, to cocktails with function, style and ease.
Beyond Skin Cream Colette Sandals
ZouXou Anaise Ankle Tie Sandal
The Mule
This was another style that was big this spring and is living on right through the summer. For those days when you just can’t bare to do anything but slide your feet into something (everyday for me, but I’m sure you have more motivation), these are a great go to. Pairs perfectly with straight leg jeans to go super casual or with a midi dress for a more dressed up look.
Fortress of Inca Miko in Khaki
Charlotte Stone Morley from Amour Vert
Rachel Comey Wald Needlepoint Wedge Mule from Accompany
Brother Vellies Denim Babouche
The Sneaker
The sneaker has been a summer staple since, oh, I don’t know, forever. And this year is no exception. You can update your spring pair by going pastel for summer (or not, I won’t judge). Pair with denim cutoffs for a classic summer look or with a dress to do what all the cool kids are doing this season.
Veja Esplar Sneaker from Amour Vert
The Lace Up or Ankle Strap Sandal
Another style that comes around every summer, and for good reason. The lace up or ankle strap sandal is super versatile and super comfortable, both things that become increasingly important as the temperatures heat up. Pair with just about anything for a polished look that is equally as effortless (besides actually tying the things, but I think we can all handle that).
The Palatines Refero Sandal in Beige Leather w Black Elastic
Kyma Karpathos Sandal from Amour Vert
Brother Vellies Sand Selma Sandal
The Festive Sandal
And because it’s summer, who would we be if we didn’t give you some fun embellishment for your summer shoe wardrobe. Whether it be tassels, fringe, ruffles or scallops, summer is one of those seasons that you can wear embellishment on your feet without feeling like a child.
Sseko Caramel Rue Accent Sandal
Brother Vellies Burkina In Sunset from Two Son
Elina Lebessi Chloe Sandals from Almasanta
Charlotte Stone Yvonne Sandal from Amour Vert
Minda Living BELOVED Leather Sandal
What’s your go-to summer shoe?