Each season we are inevitably inundated with new trends and key pieces to have on our radar. While the runway sets the tone for trends months in advance, by the time actually summer arrives, it’s interesting to see what influences have been taken and incorporated into more wearable street styles. Though clothing trends tend to move at a much quicker pace, accessory trends are set at the start of the season and typically have more longevity, as we wear them with just about everything already in our wardrobes.
As we continue striving for the balance of practical and timeless (while still keeping our wardrobes feeling fresh and on-trend), I’ve been looking for versatile key pieces well worth spending money on as they can be worn with an array of different looks. For that reason, I’ve found myself gravitating towards the trends that European women are wearing and what styles are really gaining traction across the continent as opposed to quick, fleeting trends.
Wearability and style are always at the top of my mind, and European women have mastered the art of making classic styles feel brand new. But what are they wearing on their feet I hear you ask? Well, this year I’ve found that sporty influences remain firmly in their summer circulation in the form of rope sandals, while flip flops bring the practical yet classic element into the equation for easy, everyday wear. Beaded sandals are a nod to the ongoing boho trend, but have evolved and feel more modern and chic this time around.
So, whether you’re planning a city break or a Mediterranean beach getaway, scroll on to discover five European shoe trends perfect for summer 2026.
1. Red Sandals
Style Notes: Colour and I have an ongoing feud, and I’m somewhat of a neutral obsessive at heart. But, when it comes to summer, all elements of my comfort zone go out of the window as I incorporate colours and prints into my wardrobe for a dose of dopamine. Pops of red have been everywhere this season, but sandals are the style that I’ve fully embraced, and honestly, can’t get enough of. Whether you opt for a heeled iteration or a flat, they’re popular now for bringing your look right up to date.
Shop the Trend:
Toteme
T-Strap Nappa Sandals
A sleek, minimalist style.
Nobodys Child
Red Suede Flip Flops
Suede sandals bring a touch of texture to your look.
MANGO
Heeled Leather Sandals With Straps
I love the contrast of the red against the black.
AMINA MUADDI
Juliette 45 Leather Sandals
A chic heeled sandal instantly elevates a look.
Reformation
Petunia Heeled Sandal
The asymmetric strap makes this pair feel more elevated.
Massimo Dutti
Low-Heel Leather Sandal
A low heel is perfect when you’ve got a long day on your feet.
JAMIE HALLER
The San Diego Leather Thong Sandals
Consider these an investment style that would last for years.
2. Rope Sandals
Style Notes: We can thank Miu Miu for the resurgence of the rope sandal, and their popularity continues to gain momentum as part of the “gorpcore” trend. This sporty, utilitarian style also has a nod to nautical influences, making the rope sandal a practical choice with a more playful edge.
Shop the Trend:
FLOWZE
Flò Woven Sandals
Khaki is such a timeless colour and so versatile.
Free People
Genesis Packable Sport Sandals
Trust Free People to get the balance between fashion, sport and boho just right.
M&S
Rope Detail Strappy Gladiator Sandals
A monochrome number for the minimalists among us.
Miu Miu
Riviere Cord and Leather Sandals
These come in three different colours and half sizes all the way up to a 46.
Next
Neutral Rope Sling Back Sandals
A more nautical take on the trend.
SEQWL
Seqwl Rope Strap Thong Sandals
This pair are an affordable option to see if the trend is for you or not.
LOEFFLER RANDALL
Mika Bead-Embellished Cord Sandals
Loeffler Randall is one of my absolute favourite brands for chic footwear.
3. Flip Flops
Style Notes: Ah, the classic flip-flop. An age-old, timeless style that comes back year after year, and for very good reason. Their simplicity is perfect for minimalists, or ideal for sliding on during heatwaves while still looking put-together. Pair with everything from your most colourful prints to your everyday vest and jeans.
Shop the Trend:
White flip flops are so sleek in summer and really make your tan pop.
Ancient Greek Sandals
Saionara Jelly Clear Green
Jelly sandals are making their comeback.
Rails footwear collection is as good as their summer dresses.
Havaianas
Slim Flip Flops in Black
Could we do a flip flop trend without including Havaianas?
Reformation
Jessie Thong Sandal
These come in 11 different colours and prints.
A suede sandal is still so on trend.
ALOHAS
Ola Studs Black Leather Sandals
Alohas is one of my favourite footwear brands, and the eyelet details make these stand out.
4. Beaded Sandals
Style Notes: With the boho trend is firmly here to stay, the beaded sandal is certainly a nod to that artisanal energy. Long gone are the days of straw wedges with rainbow beads, this time around hand-embellished sandals feel more modern and polished while also filling us with nostalgia.
Shop the Trend:
LE MONDE BERYL
Beaded Suede Sandals
Marianne’s beaded sandals [pictured above] are from Le Monde Beryl if you want to copy her style.
Free People
Riviera Beaded Sandals
Opt for silver jewellery to match the beads.
Reformation
Geffen Sandal
Part of Reformations collaboration with Courtney Grow.
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara Bead-Embellished Leather Flip Flops
I love the colours of this pair.
AQUAZZURA
Gemma Embellished Leather Sandals
Ready to take you from the beach to the bar.
Jimmy Choo
Lova Mule Flat
These just have such a summery feel to them.
Office
Soleil Beaded Toe Post Sandals
The glass beads are so chic.
5. Toe Loop
Style Notes: We can thank Zara for those viral toe ring sandals that sparked a sandal trend. And yes, I bought a pair, and have to admit, they are my most worn sandals when I want a more elevated, sleek finish to my look. I love how many different iterations of it we have now and will certainly be investing in more of the hardware-sporting styles that feel like jewellery.
Shop the Trend:
Mint Velvet
Sofia Tan Leather Strappy Sandals
These come in tan or black.
ZARA
Leather Sandals With Metal Detail
This years iteration of their viral sandal.
MANGO
Cross-Strap Leather Sandals
This Mango pair feel like a designer dupe.
AMANU
The Kibera Embellished Satin Sandals
AEYDE
Sibel Leather Flat Sandals
These are at the top of my wishlist.
M&S
Suede Strappy Flat Toe Loop Sandals
M&S are ticking every box right now.
The White Company
TKEES Colette Gold Toe-Post Sandals
Fashion editor Remy Farrell has these in black, and swears by their comfy soles.
Free People
Carmel by the Sea Sandals
These come in six different colours.