There’s something wonderfully unruly about this season’s summer shoes. Perhaps it’s the joy of contrast: a city sandal with boho leanings, a clog mule with ergonomic roots, a cowboy boot worn with a cotton dress that barely touches the knee. The rules are off, and it’s liberating.

Heels are strappy, sculptural and unexpectedly practical. Chanel’s camellia-adorned mules bring sparkle to even the simplest shift, while Balenciaga’s collaboration with Scholl delivers a heeled clog that manages to be both wildly fashion and podiatrist-approved. Ferragamo’s red slingbacks are the mid-height answer to summer occasionwear, striking a confident note.

But let’s talk boots. Hermès’s Western suede ankle boots are pitch-perfect for this season’s boho mood—easy, earthy, slightly louche. Chanel’s thigh-grazing two-tone pair take things up several notches, with just enough drama to warrant main stage billing. Both would look excellent at a festival. Ideally in the VIP section. During a particularly dry spell. These are not, strictly speaking, mud-appropriate.

Though if you do find yourself in a moment of musical abandon, wading into a quagmire in butter-soft suede—well. That sort of devil-may-care attitude is rather fabulous, isn’t it? The original spirit animal of festival style, Ms Moss, wouldn’t blink. So far be it from us to urge circumspection – we wouldn’t want to kill the vibe. 

Because sometimes, the best style decisions start at ground level.

Chanel’s diamanté camellia sandals are pure garden party theatre, while Ferragamo’s slingbacks add a jolt of red to more neutral moments. Balenciaga’s Scholl mule? Unexpectedly wearable, and suspiciously good for posture.

Ralph Lauren’s crossover pair is a solid all-rounder – smart enough for daywear, simple enough for travel. We like them with cotton skirts and clean tailoring. Fendi’s tan sandals: polished, padded, and made for minimalist escapism.

Brunello Cucinelli’s espadrilles offer that Riviera feeling without the performance. The woven sole adds just enough interest, but they’re pared-back enough to ground a striped shirt and a wide-leg trouser.

Summer boots are having their moment. Chanel’s knee-highs are daring and directional, while Hermès’s suede cowboy boots hit a sweet spot: rustic, refined, and made for festivals (if you’re sticking to the dry bits).

Chunky-soled but not too flashy, Brunello Cucinelli’s elevated sneakers are what happens when you mix sportswear with serious craftsmanship. Great for travel, work, and airport lounges alike.